REX robotic exoskeleton gets wheelchair users back on their feet
July 19, 2010 | Source: Gizmodo
REX (Rex Bionics)
A robotic exoskeleton called REX puts wheelchair users back on their feet, enabling a person to stand, walk and go up and down stairs and slopes, controlling it with a joystick.
REX users can stand up, walk, move sideways, turn around, go up and down steps, as well as walk on flat, hard surfaces including ramps and slopes.
Sales are expected to commence in New Zealand by the end of 2010 and elsewhere by the middle of 2011. It is expected to cost about US$150,000.
Comments (2)
by Oscar Gonzalez
This is amazing. Despite the comment on the joystick… really? that’s your criticism? A joystick may be the best way to control this machine for some people while other input devices might be necessary for others. This only proves what can be done with the technology… the meat of this story is the exoskeleton’s technology. I think its amazing! The only thing I see as having room for improvement is the speed in which it can move. Having said that, this has tremendous potential for physical therapy.
by mcquoidellum
this is slightly lame.. joystick? come on.. where’s the emotiv headset hook up? Thought is far more intuitive..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0at3NzNRySg
that’s the wheel chair design.. should be easy to convert for REX use.