# Robotic Legs For Amputees Iraqi Vet Goes Bionic Thanks to MIT By Ben Preiss | Published 2007-07-29 | Unique Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/iraqi-vet-receives-robotic-ankle-developed-at-mit References: [web.mit.edu](http://web.mit.edu/newsoffice/2007/robot-ankle-0723.html) & [technovelgy](http://www.technovelgy.com/ct/Science-Fiction-News.asp?NewsNum=1138) Garth Stewart, 24, who lost his left leg below the knee in an explosion, received the prototype device that is designed to reduce fatigue, improve balance and provide amputees with a more fluid gait. This is just another example of biomechanical engineers designing devices that help turn return as much of amputees' former abilities as possible. Stewart's prosthetic leg features an [energy-generating ankle](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wearable-mobility-device) that's far more powerful than a conventional spring. The technology should be commercially available by the summer of 2008. **Implications** - Scientists and engineers are working together to create innovative [prosthetic limbs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-nimble) that mimic natural biomechanical processes. These advanced prosthetics aren't the peg legs of generations prior, and may even form the basis for [futuristic exoskeletons](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ecosystem-for-exoskeleton-technology) for able-bodied laborers. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.3/10 - Popularity: 32% | Activity: 89% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Unique](https://www.trendhunter.com/unique) > [Inventions](https://www.trendhunter.com/inventions) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Advanced Prosthetic Limbs:** Scientists and engineers are developing innovative prosthetic limbs that mimic natural biomechanical processes, offering new opportunities for amputees. - **Energy-generating Ankles:** The development of energy-generating ankles in prosthetic limbs is revolutionizing the industry, providing amputees with improved balance and a more fluid gait. - **Futuristic Exoskeletons:** The advancements in prosthetic limb technology could potentially lead to the creation of futuristic exoskeletons that enhance the abilities of able-bodied laborers. ### Where This Applies - **Biomedical Engineering:** Biomedical engineering is at the forefront of developing advanced prosthetic limbs that improve the lives of amputees. - **Medical Devices:** The medical device industry is incorporating energy-generating ankle technology into prosthetic limbs, offering new options for amputees. - **Robotics:** Advancements in prosthetic limb technology are inspiring the robotics industry to explore the potential of creating futuristic exoskeletons for a wide range of applications. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Modular Slip-Proof Prosthetic Legs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lytra-prosthetic-leg.md) - [Mind-Controlled Artificial Arms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ai-prosthetic-arm.md) - [Smart Bionic Hands](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-bionic-hand.md) - [AI-Powered Prosthetic Arms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-prosthetic-arm.md) - [Celebrated Athletic Prosthetics](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ffate.md) - [Advanced Knee Joint Exoskeletons](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/knee-joint-exoskeleton.md) - [AI-Powered Walking Aids](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/legit-walking.md) - [Cutting-Edge Medical Exoskeletons](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/medical-exoskeleton.md) - [Robotic Brace Walking Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-project-amplify.md)