ReWalk Robotics, the leading global exoskeleton developer and manufacturer, has announced a collaboration with Harvard University’s Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering for the development of concepts and designs of lightweight exoskeleton system technologies for lower limb disabilities. The collaboration will focus on the development of ‘soft suit’ systems for the treatment of stroke, multiple sclerosis, mobility limitations for the elderly and other medical applications.

The soft suit prototypes from the Wyss Institute transmit power to key joints of the legs with cable technologies powered with software and mechanics that are similar to the technologies used in the ReWalk system. The cables are connected to fabric-based designs that attach to the legs and foot, thus lending the name ‘soft suit’.

Using fabric based designs that are lightweight and non-restrictive, the Wyss Institute’s soft exosuit uses compact, powerful actuators packaged in a belt to provide assistance to the wearer’s legs in a physiologically relevant manner. These enhanced movements have the potential to assist wearers in walking with greater stability and metabolic efficiency, which could prevent injury and reduce fatigue.

“There is a great need in the health care system for lightweight, lower cost wearable exoskeleton designs to support stroke patients, individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and senior citizens who require mechanical mobility assistance. This collaboration will help create the next generation of exoskeleton systems, making life changing technology available to millions of consumers across a host of patient populations,” said Larry Jasinski, CEO of ReWalk.

“This is a very exciting day for the soft suit technology. ReWalk brings commercialisation expertise and experience in the area of wearable robotics and complements our translation focused research. Ultimately this deal paves the way for this technology to make its way to patients,” said Conor Walsh, faculty member at the Wyss Institute. (NA)