ReWalk, now LifeWard, celebrates 20 years since its first prototype! 2004: First working prototype 2007: A new prototype appears on the hit US TV show “Glee.” 2011/2012: The ReWalk Exoskeleton is available for commercial sale in Europe and rehabilitation use in the US for patients with SCI. 2014: FDA granted clearance for personal use of the ReWalk Exoskeleton. 2015: The ReWalk 6.0 Personal Exoskeleton launched. 2023: The ReWalk Personal Exoskeleton receives FDA clearance for use on stairs and curbs, expanding access to more real-world environments. 2024: Medicare finalizes reimbursement for the ReWalk Personal Exoskeleton.
There appears to be re-emerging interest in gravity-redistribution exoskeletons in Europe. These can be entirely passive, quasipassive, or powered systems that aim to take the weight of a backpack or body armor off the shoulders of dismounted infantry (or civilians) and redirect it into the ground. This bypasses the lower back, hip, and knees, reducing the risk of injury for those overburdened with supplies and equipment. New models have emerged in the public domain (but there are others in development) by: Cyber Human Systems (GOGOA): GUDEX InteSpring: Centaur MAWASHI: UPRISE Newndra: CarryON EXOMED: Enforcer
Link to original post: LinkedIn-ReWalk PAGE 14 | EXOSKELETON REPORT
ISSUE 8 | JUNE 25, 2024
