Berkeley Robotics and Human Engineering Laboratory: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 05:40, 9 December 2018

Revision as of 15:18, 9 November 2019

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In 2010 The lab unveiled ''eLEGS'', which stands for "Exoskeleton Lower Extremity Gait System." ''eLEGS'' is another hydraulically powered exoskeleton system, and allows paraplegics to stand and walk with crutches or a walker. The computer interface uses force and motion sensors to monitor the user's gestures and motion, and uses this information to intelligently interpret the intent of the user and translate it into appropriate action. Users can "put on and take off the device by themselves as well as walk, turn, sit down, and stand up unaided".<ref name=BerkeleyeLEGS>[http://bleex.me.berkeley.edu/research/exoskeleton/elegs%E2%84%A2/eLEGS] Berkeley Robotics and Human Engineering Laboratory. Retrieved 29 January 2012.</ref>

In 2011 ''eLEGS'' was renamed ''Ekso''. ''Ekso'' weighs 45 pounds (20&nbsp;kg), has a maximum speed of 2&nbsp;mph (3.2 kphkm/h) and a battery life of 6 hours. It is suitable for users weighing up to 220 pounds, who are between 5&nbsp;ft 2in and 6&nbsp;ft 4in tall and can transfer themselves from a wheelchair to a chair. It allows the user to "walk in a straight line, stand from a sitting position, stand for an extended period of time, and sit down from a standing position".<ref name=BBStatistics>[http://www.exoskeleton-suit.com/BerkeleyBionics.html Exoskeleton] ''Berkeley Bionics''. Retrieved 29 January 2012.</ref>

''Ekso'' is currently undergoing further development and clinical trials in rehabilitation centers.<ref>[http://www.dailytech.com/Kessler+Releases+Video+Progress+of+Ekso+Exoskeleton+Testing+Clinical+Trial+Begins+Jan+2012/article23538.htmKesslerReleases Video Progress of "Ekso" Exoskeleton Testing; Clinical Trial Begins Jan. 2012]{{dead link|date=October 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}''DailyTech'', 16 December 2011.</ref> It should become lighter and more adaptable, and by 2013 should be available for private use at a cost of about $100,000.<ref name=BBStatistics/><ref>[http://www.upi.com/Science_News/2012/01/06/Exoskeleton-helping-disabled-to-walk/UPI-53221325895641/?spt=hs&or=sn Exoskeleton helping disabled to walk] ''United Press International'', 6 January 2012.</ref>