In New Zealand, two inventors at Rex Bionix, Richard Little and Robert Irving, developed the world's first bionic legs to help paraplegic people get back on their feet
The Rex device (from the English robotic exoskeleton - robotic exoskeleton) is set in motion by a joystick and is powered by electric batteries that can work for a day without recharging. The 38kg electromotive outer cage straps directly to your legs and can support the weight of an adult. In this case, the device allows the patient to move not only on a horizontal surface, but also up and down stairs and slopes. And the control panel with a small LCD display, in turn, allows for quick switching between different walking modes.
Bionic legs were first shown to the public by 23-year-old Auckland mechanic Hayden Allen. Five years ago, a young man was involved in a car accident with a serious spinal cord injury. After the operation, the doctors concluded a disappointing diagnosis - he will never be able to walk again. However, thanks to the new Rex system, which consists of robotic legs, Allen and several other volunteers with severe spinal cord injuries who participated in testing the device were able to start walking again on their own.
“I’ll never forget what it’s like to see your feet go under you again. Everyone tells me - look straight, but I can't tear myself away and I keep looking at my feet, Compulent quotes Allen's words after the presentation.
The idea for a robotic exoskeleton, on which engineers have already spent a total of $ 7.1 million, was born to the employees of Rex Bionix in 2003. CEO Jenny Morel said the developers are awaiting a report on the results of internal testing of the system. After that, "field" tests will be carried out, in which testers will be able to take the robotic prosthesis home and evaluate its functionality in everyday life, reports DailyMail.ru.
According to Rex Bionix, the exoskeletons should go on sale in New Zealand by the end of this year. Residents of other countries will be able to see the technological innovation only by mid-2011. A robotic prosthesis will be made for everyone according to an individual order. At the same time, people wishing to purchase this device will have to undergo a mandatory medical examination to make sure that they can use the new invention. The estimated cost of one copy of the Rex system device will be $ 150 thousand.