ReWalk Robotics Ltd, in collaboration with Harvard University’s Wyss Institute for Biological Inspired Engineering, recently introduced their prototype of a soft suit exoskeleton designed to assist stroke survivors.
ReWalk CEO Larry Jasinski, along with collaborators from Wyss Institute, demonstrated the exoskeleton prototype, called Restore, in a news segment produced for the site Yahoo! Finance.
The Restore exoskeleton is engineered to transmit power to key joints of the legs using cable technologies, powered with software and mechanics that are similar to the technologies used in the ReWalk exoskeleton system for individuals with spinal cord injury. The cables are connected to fabric-based designs that attach to the legs and foot, explains a media release from Marlborough, Mass-headquartered ReWalk Robotics Ltd.
“As we looked at exoskeletons from our experience with spinal cord injury, there were many things that apply for someone who may have had a stroke, but their needs are different,” Jasinski says in the news segment. “This device helps someone who’s having trouble lifting their foot, trouble walking.”
“We are thrilled with the progress of the Restore system, which will provide life changing technology to a whole new class of patients facing mobility issues,” he adds in the media release. “With the prototype finished, we are eager to begin clinical studies and pursue regulatory approvals so that these systems can be provided to millions of patients who can benefit from access to the device.”
The first commercial application for the exoskeleton will be for stroke survivors, with its estimated availability in 2018.
The next applications will be for multiple sclerosis patients and others, per the release.
[Source(s): ReWalk Robotics Ltd, PR Newswire]
