Robotic Exoskeleton
From: NASA TechBriefs Insider - 02/20/2007

Researchers at the University of Michigan (U-M, Ann Arbor, MI) developed a
robotic exoskeleton controlled by the wearer's own nervous system that could
help users regain limb function. Healthy subjects first wore the exoskeleton
to measure how the device affected ankle function before researchers tested
the device on disabled patients. Electrodes are attached to the wearer's leg
and electrical signals received from the brain are translated into movement
by the exoskeleton. The U-M team has no plans to build a commercial
exoskeleton, but their results suggest promising applications for
rehabilitation and physical therapy.  

"This could benefit stroke patients or patients with incomplete injuries of
the spinal cord," said Daniel Ferris, associate professor in movement science
at U-M. "For patients that can walk slowly, a brace like this may help them
walk faster and more effectively."  

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A robotic exoskeleton controlled by the wearer's own nervous system could
someday help users regain limb function, say U-M researchers. The robotic
ankle fits over a user's leg and makes walking easier. Though not available
to patients, the device may lead to breakthrough machines for those whose
nervous systems have been impaired by strokes, injuries, or other problems.

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For more information see:
Robotic exoskeleton replaces muscle work
http://www.ns.umich.edu/htdocs/releases/story.php?id=3157
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2007-02/uom-rer020807.php

Links:
Daniel Ferris
http://www.kines.umich.edu/faculty/full-time/ferris.html

Video:
http://www.umich.edu/news/index.html?Releases/2007/Feb07/exoskeleton-vids

Journal Article: Learning to Walk with a Robotic Ankle Exoskeleton
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6T82-4MYMP37-1&_user=99318&_coverDate=02%2F02%2F2007&_alid=534579425&_rdoc=4&_fmt=full&_orig=search&_cdi=5074&_sort=d&_docanchor=&view=c&_ct=855&_acct=C000007678&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=99318&md5=d3fb53608d5517ebd45afeea1c58a6d2
