With Japan's increasingly aging population in mind, Yaskawa Electric has developed the Ankle Walking Assist Device as potentially the first assistive exoskeleton to date.
Slated to be released in 2015, the Ankle Walking Assist Device is a robotic boot that is fitted on to the user's foot like a cast using several straps around the foot and one around the shin. A waist-mounted battery pack is connected to the boot by a cable, and, when the boot senses that the heel makes contact with the ground, gives a powered boost to assist the user in keeping a consistent walking pace. The amount of power that the boots provide can be adjusted, and will help the user maintain balance and keep them walking.
Physically Assistive Exoskeletons
The Ankle Walking Assist Device Helps the Elderly Keep Walking
Trend Themes
1. Assistive Exoskeletons - The development of assistive exoskeletons presents a disruptive innovation opportunity in the healthcare industry.
2. Aging Population - The challenges and needs of an aging population create opportunities for innovation in the field of mobility devices.
3. Robotic Rehabilitation - The use of robotic exoskeletons in rehabilitation opens up new possibilities for physical therapy and recovery.
Industry Implications
1. Healthcare - The healthcare industry can explore the use of assistive exoskeletons to improve mobility and independence for patients.
2. Mobility Devices - The development of advanced exoskeleton technology offers opportunities for innovation in the mobility device industry.
3. Physical Therapy - Robotic exoskeletons can transform the field of physical therapy by providing more efficient and effective rehabilitation solutions.