Parker Hannifin Corporation recently entered into a formalized agreement with Shepherd Center, Atlanta, Ga, designed to support the commercialization of Parker’s exoskeleton device Indego. The device is slated for release in 2013.
A recent news release notes the general terms of the agreement dictate that Shepherd Center will function as the lead rehabilitation center for clinical testing of the device. In turn, the Shepherd Center will also develop clinical protocols for use of the device, train clinicians at other rehabilitation centers where the device will be used, and monitor clinical trials. The agreement also calls for marketing collaboration between Parker and Shepherd Center subsequent to the device’s regulatory approval.
The device is worn by the patient while in his or her own wheelchair, as well as in a vehicle or restaurant booth, explains Clare Hartigan, MPT, leader of clinical research at Shepherd Center, “The device can be used for mobility on all surfaces, including stairs,” Hartigan adds.
Gary R. Ulicny, PhD, president, CEO, Shepherd Center, notes that the facility sees distinct advantages in the technology, “From a rehabilitation perspective, we applaud Indego’s ability to vary the degree of robotic assistance and the use of electrical stimulation based on the user’s level of function,” Ulicny says.
Craig Maxwell, vice president of technology and innovation for Parker, notes that the company is proud that Shepherd Center has chosen to support the commercialization, adding that, “Shepherd Center is the only rehabilitation facility to have tested Indego and the two other devices currently being marketed by other companies as exoskeletons,” Maxwell says.
The release notes that while the Indego is not yet for sale, it is being tested and refined through clinical research at Shepherd Center.
Source(s): Parker Hannifin Corporation, Shepherd Center
