Robotic exoskeleton for paraplegics approved for market - CNET

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After 10 years in development and a clinical trial that involved some 1,200 patient sessions, the US Food and Drug Administration has approved a robotic exoskeleton designed by a team of researchers at Vanderbilt University.

The Indego exoskeleton is the second exoskeleton in America to receive FDA approval for clinical and personal use, and will allow people who have been paralysed below the waist to stand up and walk around. You can view an online brochure here (PDF).

"You can think of our exoskeleton as a Segway with legs," explained Michael Goldfarb, the professor of mechanical engineering who led the project, in a statement.

"If the person wearing it leans forward, he moves forward. If he leans back and holds that position for a few seconds, he sits down. When he is sitting down, if he leans forward and holds that position for a few seconds, then he stands up."

The exoskeleton is a rigid framework that fits around the patient's legs, with powered joints at hip and knee. A wide belt straps around the torso to keep the exoskeleton secure, and crutches or a walking frame helps the wearer keep their balance. It's powered by a rechargeable battery that can be taken out and replaced as need arises.