"Honda's Asimo robot was taught how to walk like a human, and now its
technology is returning the favor. The Japanese mega-corp has two
walking exoskeletons based on Asimo research that assist humans in
walking. The Bodyweight Support Assist exoskeleton is a set of thin
legs attached to a seat. Users sit on the seat and slip their feet
into shoes on the robotic legs. This system supports bodyweight to
assist people in walking and moving up and down steps. The
other, Stride Management Assist, is a brace worn around the hips and
thighs that provides added strength when flexing that joint. It has
been shown to increase efficiency in walking and other daily
activities. It's currently under development and being tested by 130
patients in the field. Both devices may prove to be valuable tools in
helping the elderly maintain their mobility, assisting the disabled,
and easing the stress on physical laborers. Check out the Honda
exoskeletons in the video clips below. Walking like a robot looks
pretty natural.
It's unclear how quickly Honda will be able to bring these
exoskeletons to market. The"
http://singularityhub.com/2010/09/13/hondas-exoskeletons-help-you-walk-like-asimo-video/
So now there are 5! Walk aides. If you have $20,000 grand you're set.
I however, need to win the lottery.
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