Robotic Exoskeletons: Enhancing Human Strength

In summary: Nah, not for me.In summary, the Japanese exoskeleton is sleek, white, and has the potential to augment the body's own strength or do the work of ailing limbs. This new technology is confident enough in its abilities to have started construction on a new lab.
  • #1
Ivan Seeking
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The prospect of slipping into a robotic exoskeleton that could enhance strength, keep the body active while recovering from an injury or even serve as a prosthetic limb has great appeal. Unlike the svelt body armor donned by Iron Man, however, most exoskeletons to date have looked more like clunky spare parts cobbled together.

Japan's CYBERDYNE, Inc. is hoping to change that with a sleek, white exoskeleton now in the works that it says can augment the body's own strength or do the work of ailing (or missing) limbs. The company is confident enough in its new technology to have started construction on a new lab expected to mass-produce up to 500 robotic power suits (think Star Wars storm trooper without the helmet) annually, beginning in October, according to Japan's Kyodo News Web site. [continued]
http://www.sciam.com/media/inline/A070BA0E-9DA1-A982-E2844D04DDC05DC6_1.jpg
http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=real-life-iron-man-exoskeleton
 
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  • #2
My friend showed me the video of the Raytheon one, and reading the title I thought it was the same video clip and rolled my eyes before clicking. However, I must say, this looks MUCH MUCH more advanced and better than the one from Raytheon. I don't know how they compare peformancewise, but this one looks amazing. :!)

Hahah, its called 'HAL'

http://www.cyberdyne.jp/robotsuithal/img/img_robotsuithal.jpg

Please disengage the suit HAL, "Im sorry, I can't do that dave"


Damn those japs are good at technology.
 
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  • #3
Is it just me or do those suits look like much clunkier versions of things like knee braces that we already have?
 
  • #4
Knee braces don't let you lift 300lbs.
 
  • #5
Vengeance for nerds has come! Imagine walking around the schoolyard like this. :biggrin:
 
  • #6
Poop-Loops said:
Knee braces don't let you lift 300lbs.

i can already lift 300lbs, does that mean that now i'll be able to lift 600?
 
  • #7
Probably pretty expensive right now.
 
  • #8
Remember, no curry before getting strapped in.
 
  • #9
I mentioned the military application versions of this to Favaro (on a forum he started for fan input) to possibly use in the Iron Man movie. I also mentioned several other sorts of real technology that he could have used as part of the story and explination of how the suit works or was designed. While I liked the movie I was rather disappointed that he didn't use ANY real technology to describe how the Iron Man suit works. :-/
 
  • #10
The Japanese never cease to amaze/ scare/ confuse/ hilliariate (is that a word? Anyways, make me laugh)...
 
  • #11
ice109 said:
i can already lift 300lbs, does that mean that now i'll be able to lift 600?

No, now you'll be able to lift 300lbs without giving yourself a hernia.
 
  • #12
Poop-Loops said:
No, now you'll be able to lift 300lbs without giving yourself a hernia.

meh I've gone as high as 405 and my groin is fine.
 
  • #13
Deadlift?
 

FAQ: Robotic Exoskeletons: Enhancing Human Strength

What are robotic exoskeletons?

Robotic exoskeletons are wearable devices that are designed to enhance human strength and mobility. They are typically made of lightweight materials, such as carbon fiber or aluminum, and are equipped with motors, sensors, and power sources to provide assistance to the user's muscles and joints.

How do robotic exoskeletons work?

Robotic exoskeletons work by detecting the user's movements and providing assistance in the form of additional strength and support. They use sensors to detect the user's muscle activity and movement, and then use motors to provide the necessary force to assist with tasks such as lifting or walking.

What are the potential benefits of using robotic exoskeletons?

The use of robotic exoskeletons can provide a range of benefits, such as increased strength and endurance, improved mobility and balance, and reduced risk of injury. They can also assist with tasks that may be physically demanding or require repetitive motions, allowing users to perform these tasks more easily and with less strain on their bodies.

Are there any limitations to using robotic exoskeletons?

While robotic exoskeletons can provide many benefits, there are also some limitations to consider. These devices can be expensive, which may limit their accessibility to some individuals. Additionally, they may not be suitable for all types of physical tasks or environments, and may require regular maintenance and adjustments to ensure proper functioning.

What are the potential future developments for robotic exoskeleton technology?

The technology behind robotic exoskeletons is constantly evolving, and there are many potential future developments that could further enhance their capabilities. This includes advancements in materials and sensors, as well as improvements in artificial intelligence and machine learning, which could allow the exoskeletons to adapt and respond to the user's movements in real-time.

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