Robotic suit gets Para back on his feet

Developed in Israel this human exoskeleton called ReWalk represents a huge breakthrough for paraplegics, an electronic outfit for the legs which helps sufferers stand, walk and climb stairs.

The wearer selects a function from the remote conotrol wristband from stand, sit, walk, descend or climb then leans forward in a kind of Segway action so the sensors react and set the robotic legs in motion.

Used together with crutches to aid balance the early version of ReWalk is performing well enough for the inventor Amit Goffer, founder of Argo Medical Technologies, to call a 2010 production date with a price tag of about $20,000, the same as a high end wheelchair.

Not only is it advantageous in assisting the paralysed to their feet but gives sufferers the chance to develop unused muscle tissue and expand their lungs.

Former Israeli Para Radi Kaiof is putting one though its paces and is delighted he can now talk to people face to face rather than from the confines of a wheelchair.

Via Reuters

Related stories