Computers-Plus

Remember Batman in Kingdom Come? In the graphic novel, an alternative-future and paralyzed Bruce Wayne moves around with an exoskeleton. Robotic braces allow him normal movement, all controlled like his mind.

Similar technology may become mainstream soon actually. Argo Medical Technologies in Israel is currently holding US trials for its ReWalk. Thats a exoskeleton that allows people who are paralyzed from the waist down to use their legs again. Users may not be able to control these mechanical leg supports with their minds, but the crutch-based control scheme looks pratical enough—but unfortunately requiring full upper body function as well (sorry quadriplegics).

The American trials currently involve 14 people, all walking around with a setup that detects upper body movement through shoulder sensors, and moves the legs based on these signals. The battery lasts for 3 hours if used continuously, while Argo Medical is shooting for a public release by the end of the year (pending FDA approval of course). No word yet on the planned price, nor any potential plans by the robotic overlords to get the paralyzed on their side.

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