Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL)

Thursday, August 6, 2009, 23:54
Feature, Multimedia Accessories, Robotics, Video
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Paralyzed? Sit no more: Walk, Climb, Lift!!!

Professor Yoshiyuki Sankai, University of Tsukuba, brilliantly presented its cyborg-type robot, named HAL (Hybrid Assistive Limb), designed to boost-up the physical capabilities. This robot technology development was inspired Mr. Seiji Uchida, in-wheelchair, who will attempt to climb the the peak of Breithorn in the Swiss Alps and for those people who suffered from strike-induced paralysis or spinal injuries. Spinal impairment may be caused by extreme physical activities or due to normal aging effect of a person. The latest invention is a hit in Japan, knowing that the said country almost live in an inverted pyramid scheme when it comes to age-based population statistics wherein almost 35% of its population belongs to 65 years old and above!

The technology works as mediator-modem between the brain and the human limb. As the person attempts to move the affected limb of his body, a certain nerve signals is sent by the brain to the muscles which is then captured by the robotic-suit sensors that are directly connected to the skin, these nerve-signals are demodulated by the HAL’s power unit, then signaling the exoskeleton unit to move as instructed in coordinated with the human limb. Strength may be multiplied by a factor of 2 to 10 depending on the user’s physical condition.

Cyberdyne Corporation, Tsukuba, Ibarakai Prefecture based company, supported the project by having it under rental. It is now available to Japan residents and soon to Europe potential clients.