When Chloe Angus lost her ability to walk due to a spinal cord injury in 2015, she never imagined she would one day regain her mobility. Thanks to Human in Motion Robotics, a Vancouver-based company specializing in exoskeleton technology, Chloe Angus and others like her are getting a second chance at walking again.
Human in Motion Robotics, led by co-founder and CEO Dr. Siamak Arzanpour, aims to develop wearable exoskeleton suits that enable individuals with motion disabilities, such as paraplegics, to walk similarly to able-bodied individuals. Chloe Angus, now the Director of Lived Experience at the company, is actively involved in designing the exoskeleton for paraplegics.
The provided robotic suit, operated by a small hand-held remote control, gives users a sense of freedom and independence. It allows them to stand at eye level and participate more fully in daily activities, making them feel like their true selves again.
Dr. Arzanpour has ambitious plans for the future of exoskeleton technology. He envisions using brain signals and other interfaces to enhance the communication between the exoskeleton and the human body, making the experience even more intuitive.
Beyond providing individuals with the feeling of freedom and independence, exoskeleton technology offers additional benefits. By periodically standing and walking, paraplegics can prevent common chronic health issues like pressure sores, muscle atrophy, and poor circulation.
The goal is to make exoskeleton technology readily available to the public. Human in Motion Robotics plans to begin clinical trials with a perfected version of the exoskeleton suit early next year, with the intention of obtaining regulatory approval and making it available for purchase.
Chloe Angus hopes that this technology will revolutionize mobility options for wheelchair users, allowing them to access the world around them independently. With advancements in exoskeleton technology and its increasing accessibility, the day when individuals can trade their wheelchairs for exoskeletons on the streets is rapidly approaching.
FAQ
1. What is an exoskeleton?
An exoskeleton is a wearable device designed to support and augment the movements of the human body.
2. How does the exoskeleton suit work?
The exoskeleton suit is operated through a small hand-held remote control, allowing users to control the movements of the suit and regain the ability to stand and walk.
3. What are the benefits of using an exoskeleton for paraplegics?
Using an exoskeleton can help prevent common chronic health issues, such as pressure sores, muscle atrophy, and poor circulation. It also provides individuals with a sense of freedom, independence, and the ability to participate fully in daily activities.
4. When will the exoskeleton suit be available for purchase?
Human in Motion Robotics plans to begin clinical testing of the exoskeleton suit early next year, with the intention of obtaining regulatory approval and making it available for purchase soon after.
5. What are the future advancements in exoskeleton technology?
Dr. Siamak Arzanpour, the CEO of Human in Motion Robotics, envisions using brain signals and other interfaces to enhance the communication between exoskeletons and the human body, making the experience even more intuitive and seamless.