Printing a New Lease on Life

A 3D-printed exoskeleton gives a little girl use of her arms

Just in case landing on another planet wasn’t cool enough for you today: Emma is two years old, and she was born with a rare disease called arthrogryposis. It caused her to not be able to raise her arms above her head or move and play like a normal child. Thanks to a 3-D printed exoskeleton system called WREX, she can now do that.

The best part? If a piece breaks or needs adjustment as she grows, they can print a new one in no time at all. A heartwarming application of technology.

Previously: An amazing robotic exoskeleton that can help paraplegics walk.

(via KurzweilAI)

Source: kurzweilai.net

Robot Exoskeletons Will Make Us all Superhumans

Maybe Ripley’s suit from Aliens isn’t so far-fetched after all? Tokyo University of Science has developed these strength-aiding robotic exoskeletons, nearly doubling the lifting capacity of the wearer.

I promise this is not Prometheus viral marketing. Great detailed test-run over at New Scientist.

Previously: Ekso Bionics debuts this amazing exosuit to aid the paralyzed in regaining movement. Stunning engineering.

(via The Creators Project)

Source: thecreatorsproject.com

Ekso Bionics Delivers Its First Commercial Exoskeleton

It’s aimed at helping paraplegics stand and walk, and it’s awesome. Welcome to the future.

Don’t miss their presentation from TED Med too. It might weigh in at 45 pounds, but most of that weight is transferred to the ground … oh, and paraplegic people are walking in exoskeletons!!!

(via Medgadget)

Source: medgadget.com