The world's first child size exoskeleton can come out with children to grow up

The Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) has introduced a child-sized exoskeleton tailored for children with symptoms of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Because SMA causes motor neuron loss, the patient's body will gradually shrink until bedridden and unable to walk.

Made of aluminum and titanium, the exoskeleton weighs 26 pounds and has five auxiliary motors on each leg to help the child move, avoiding further complications due to long periods of inactivity.

The leg motor includes a sensor to detect "any slight intent of motion" and then an onboard computer follows the child's footsteps to create the smoothest mechanical gait. As the child is constantly growing and exercising, the device is also equipped with a retractable stand that can be used even if the child is taller.

CSIC's "smart" approach is similar to SRI's recently established Superflex soft exosuit algorithm, which uses small adjustments that may help extend CISC's 5-hour battery life. Currently, CISC is conducting trials of the exoskeleton for three volunteer children in Madrid and Barcelona. On the other hand, engineers at Harvard University are working with ReWalk Robotics to test another similar soft exosuit designed for people with reduced mobility and plan to bring it to market.