A groundbreaking innovation in the field of assistive technology has arrived in Jakarta, capturing the attention of students from Islamic boarding schools in Indonesia. Professor Hiroshi Kobayashi, a distinguished faculty member at Tokyo University of Science, introduced a revolutionary exoskeleton suit that resembles a backpack but has the power to enhance motor movements for the elderly and individuals with disabilities.
The exoskeleton suit, equipped with artificial muscles made from rubber tubes and nylon mesh, operates on compressed air. When the tubes are filled with air, the nylon contracts, generating a powerful pulling force. This remarkable technology assists with manual tasks that require strength, alleviates pressure on the back when lifting heavy objects, and significantly improves body posture. With this assistive clothing, individuals can now effortlessly lift objects weighing up to 30 kilograms.
One of the seminar participants, Teguh Wibowo, hailing from Bandung, West Java, enthusiastically shared his firsthand experience of trying out Kobayashi’s exoskeleton suit. As someone who has endured muscle injuries, Wibowo expressed his belief that this innovative creation could be a life-changing solution, especially for those who have suffered similar injuries.
While this remarkable technology carries immense potential, Muhammad Asy’ari Akbar, the head of the Minhajurrosyidin Islamic boarding school in Jakarta, emphasized the alignment of Kobayashi’s creation with the moral teachings instilled in their students. He commended the focus on being useful to others and highlighted the importance of humane values in the development of assistive technologies.
Currently priced at 1,100 US dollars (approximately Rp17.4 million), efforts are underway to make the exoskeleton suit more affordable for the people of Indonesia. The goal is to provide accessibility to a wider range of individuals, including those with disabilities, the elderly facing mobility challenges, disaster volunteers, and care workers.
As the exoskeleton suit gains popularity and becomes a common sight in Indonesia, the future holds immense promise for the expansion of innovative assistive technologies. Inspired by the Prophet Muhammad’s teachings, students are encouraged to embrace creativity and develop solutions that enhance the lives of fellow human beings.
FAQ
1. How does the exoskeleton suit work?
The exoskeleton suit consists of rubber tubes wrapped with nylon mesh. When compressed air fills the tubes, the nylon contracts, creating a strong pulling force that aids in manual tasks and reduces pressure on the back.
2. What is the weight capacity of the exoskeleton suit?
Wearers of the exoskeleton suit can comfortably lift objects weighing up to 30 kilograms.
3. How much does the exoskeleton suit cost?
The current price of the exoskeleton suit is 1,100 US dollars (approximately Rp17.4 million). Efforts are being made to lower the cost to cater to the economic conditions of the Indonesian population.
4. Who can benefit from the exoskeleton suit?
The exoskeleton suit has the potential to positively impact a wide range of individuals, including those with disabilities, the elderly facing mobility challenges, disaster volunteers, and care workers.