In this modern world, robots have definitely improved the lives of people with disabilities. From standard manual wheelchair to the electric wheelchair controlled by eye gaze, technology has come a long way.
GenEleck technologies an Indian start-up has developed an exoskeleton, which can be used as an arm or leg combining robotics with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI). They represented India at the prestigious powered Exoskeleton Race, Cybathlon 2020.
What is Exoskeleton and how do these Exoskeletons work?
The exoskeleton is a wearable robotic device that helps in the movement of the limbs. Depending upon the needs it can be worn around the upper body, lower body, or even by covering the entire body. There are mainly two types of exoskeleton depending upon their mechanism. Powered and passive. Passive exoskeleton doesn’t use any external power source and they work mechanically. The powered exoskeleton is an advanced version and works electrically with the help of motors, hydraulics, pneumatics, etc.
The exoskeleton developed by GenEleck works in such a way that the brain and machine exchange impulses making the brain think the machine is actually a part of the body. With the development of Artificial intelligence, real-time brain-machine impulse transfer is recorded, which helps in determining how effective the exoskeletons are. It can also help determine the treatment as each moment is recorded instantly.
The exoskeleton developed by GenEleck tech reduces 65-75% of rehabilitation/ recovery time for patients with paralysis.
The growing demand for Exoskeleton
There are many professions where the body is tested to the limits physically to a great extent. Agriculture, manufacturing, logistics to name a few. In these industries, the exoskeleton can play a major role in preventing and reducing health problems. Many industries invest in exoskeleton as health problems cause low productivity and healthcare costs among their workers. Stats show that it costs at least $15 billion for companies due to the overburdening of workers back. The think tank foundation, England estimates that 44 million Europeans suffer from exoskeletal disorders. Big players like BMW, Ford, Samsung have invested heavily in the exoskeletons.
