Ekso Bionics

Introduction

Ekso Bionics Holdings, Inc is a company that develops powered exoskeleton bionics that enhance the mobility and strength of human physical components. Powered exoskeletons are machines that can be worn and bionics are technologies based on the biological system.

The first exoskeleton

The earliest exoskeleton known to man was developed in 1890 by Nicholas Yagin. It was made for walking, jumping and running assistance, pretty much the same as today’s uses. The first exoskeleton was powered by energy that was stored in a gas bag. The first exoskeleton of course required more human power to move.

About Ekso Bionics

Ekso Bionics Holdings, Inc was founded in 2005 by Russ Angold, Homayoon Kazerooni and Nathan Harding. Their headquarters are located in Richmond, Califonia.

Medical Uses

Ekso is used in the medical field mainly for rehabilitation. The main areas that Ekso focuses on are stroke, spinal cord injuries and aging. It also help patients who have lost a leg be able to walk again. The machine helps you carry your weight and helps you maintain more balance which make it easier for patients to do their physical therapy or exercise. For example if you have a weak back and can’t weight lift, Ekso can help. Studies show that with the help of Ekso, patients improve their physical health at a faster rate.

Military Uses

Ekso is also for military purposes because it make a person stronger, faster and more equipped for rough terrain. There are many other model of Ekso being produced for military purposes because they help carry heavy machinery, basically giving people superhuman strength and speed.

The picture above is the XOS2, which lets someone lift a 200 pound object without any weight training and hold it for long periods of time.

Industrial Uses

Ekso’s are becoming more popular in industrial fields because it can help you carry heavy tools and machinery. Ekso reduces shoulder, spine and back injuries for workers from lifting these heavy objects. Ekso reduces the physical burdens on workers and it also reduces physical fatigue which in turn produces fewer workplace injuries.

The Future

The future of Ekso would make people have even more superpowers like Iron Man. The goal of the design is to have it a lot smaller, thinner, lighter and easier to move in, practically like your wearing clothes. Not only that, but one day it would be custom fitted depending on the person’s needs and requirements. So a completely paralyzed person could walk again with the help of Ekso.