Technology basically serves as amplifier of human capabilities. Take the telephone, which extends our voice across distances, or the speed of a train compared to walking. In accordance with this concept, a robotic exoskeleton presents itself as a direct enhancement of human capabilities, allowing users to lift heavier loads, overcome locomotor constraints or perform tasks more quickly. The technology has promising potential, as forecast by consultancy ABI Research, estimating a market value of $7.3 billion by 2030.
The latest breakthrough comes from researchers at Simon Fraser University in Canada, who have unveiled a human exoskeleton capable of deciphering brain waves and translating them into physical movements. In particular, a woman paralyzed in both legs since 2015 was able to walk again after years confined to a wheelchair. Will such transformative applications become more prevalent in the near future? What trajectory awaits this evolving technology?
This article covers the following topics:
What is a robotic exoskeleton?
Technically, it is a wearable mechanical device designed to enhance physical capabilities externally, with the goal of preventing injury, increasing strength, or improving mobility. Its name comes from its resemblance to an external skeleton, similar to the protective shells of invertebrates such as underwater arthropods or terrestrial beetles.
In the animal kingdom, the term “exoskeleton” is often applied to invertebrates such as arthropods from the underwater world or terrestrial beetles. In their case, it is a shell that protects soft tissues from predators or the elements.
Types of exoskeleton
In addition to the type of material they are made from – soft, rigid or hybrid – these devices can be classified according to the part of the body they assist:
- Legs : Helps with faster movement or leg rehabilitation.
- Upper extremities: Help lift weights in industrial settings and restore arm mobility.
- The whole body: Provides full back, arm and leg support, especially useful in medical or industrial environments.
Primary technologies
Although there are also passive devices, that is, without their own energy, the focus here is on active exoskeletons, which are usually equipped with motors, sensors and control systems that respond to movements of the user and assist them if necessary. To achieve this, they use hydraulic and pneumatic systems, as well as servo motors. In addition, thanks to the use of batteries, they can offer autonomy of several hours.
As technology advances, exoskeletons are evolving to become lighter, more efficient and more versatile. Especially the complete models, which, for the moment, are the most bulky. They should therefore join smart textiles to help users on a daily basis.
Main applications
Although still in its infancy, human exoskeleton technology demonstrates significant potential in various sectors:
- Construction. This is one of the areas generating the most interest, with machines that already allow operators to lift up to 90 kilos effortlessly. After all, there are already building materials inspired by a animal exoskeleton.
- Health care. The main users of exoskeletons in this sector promise to be people with neuromuscular diseases such as cerebral palsy and those undergoing rehabilitation, who will complement the new generation of prosthetics and materials developed in biomedicine.
- The elderly. Older people will be able to use these devices in their daily lives to carry out simple tasks like running errands or lifting objects at home, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.
- Sports. It is perhaps the modality closest to science fiction. However, depending on the user's needs, some devices are already developed to propel the legs – or provide resistance to improve muscle work.
How much will they cost?
The initial cost of robotic exoskeletons, intended mainly for health and industry, ranges from $5,000 for passive models to $100,000 for advanced full models. However, as technology evolves, costs are expected to decrease, in line with projections from the consultancy firm mentioned earlier. Perhaps in the not-so-distant future, exoskeletons will move from being a niche technology to becoming a mundane tool, akin to cell phones or augmented reality glasses.
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