Âé¶¹´«Ã½

Technology

A self-balancing exoskeleton lets wheelchair users walk again

By Frances Marcellin

11 June 2018

Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

A self-balancing exoskeleton lets a wheelchair user walk again

Wandercraft

A self-balancing exoskeleton is being tested in France that enables people with complete lower body paralysis to walk. Many exoskeletons require the wearer to use crutches at the same time, but this one maintains its own balance to help mimic a person’s natural gait.

The exoskeleton, called Atalante, is made by Paris-based company Wandercraft. It has two movable legs and a back rest, all of which have straps that wrap around the user. To walk, they simply move their hips. This movement is quickly picked up by an array…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with Âé¶¹´«Ã½ events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, today with our introductory offers

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account
Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop