Washington-Sana
Researchers from the University of Utah in the US have developed an exoskeleton that wraps around the waist and leg that allows amputees to feel like they are walking with normal feet.
The British newspaper "Daily Mail" reported that the weight of the external structure is 5.4 pounds, which is made of carbon fiber, plastic and aluminum compounds, and uses battery-powered electric motors and microprocessors to reduce the effort of walking.
The researchers pointed out that the device is characterized by a lightweight and effective electromechanical actuator connected to the user’s thigh above the knee amputation area, while the belt around the waist contains customized electronic systems, microcontrollers and sensors that work with advanced control algorithms that improve strength and range of motion, which constitutes a qualitative leap in the field of prosthetics.
The researchers explained that above-knee amputees make more effort while walking by straining their remaining limbs and healthy limb muscles to compensate for the lack of energy from the prosthesis, and the goal of the exoskeleton is to provide that extra energy until walking becomes normal again.
