Category: Exoskeletons

To date, Ekso Bionics has positively impacted the lives of thousands thanks to over a decade of experience in the world of wearable bionics. Our wearable robotic exoskeleton is revolutionizing human potential in a variety of ways, all of which have already started to have a lasting impact on a broad array of fields. While many robotics companies are focused on developing bionics to help those dealing with paralysis or other movement-based disorders in  rehabilitation, Ekso has invested our knowledge and expertise in finding multiple ways for our bionics to be utilized beyond just rehab.

Ekso Bionics is, therefore, not only focused on helping those who have lost mobility due to health events but is also focused on increasing the human potential for movement in a variety of ways for able-bodied individuals. From rehabilitation to pioneering ways for workers to operate more safely and protect their bodies in the process, Ekso Bionics is revolutionizing the field of wearable robotic technology with our focus on improving humans’ natural movement potential in safe, efficient, and dynamic new ways. Keep reading for an overview of just a few of the applications that Ekso Bionics is helping to pioneer.

Robotic exoskeletons by Ekso are a technological way to improve quality of life.

While Ekso’s exoskeleton applications aren’t limited to medical settings, many physical therapists are using wearable robotic exoskeleton technology to help patients regain movement and other abilities that have been lost. Whether patients have had a spinal cord injury or were dealing with the after-effects of a stroke, EksoNR© neurorehabilitation suit was the first exoskeleton suit of its kind to be cleared by the FDA to address these mobility related issues. Beyond spinal cord injury (SCI) use and use in patients post-stroke, EksoNR is also the only robotic exoskeleton that has been cleared by the FDA to have potential benefits for those facing acquired brain injuries.

These sorts of rehabilitative features of exoskeletons and EksoNR, in particular, are major. Being supported by the Food and Drug Administration means that these devices can be freely applied to rehabilitation programs that allow wearers to work on increasing and enhancing mobility. Rehabilitation centers have continued to help patients through the use of EksoNR to work on gait training and other skills that patients may need to re-learn after a traumatic SCI or stroke.

EksoNR builds upon the progress that Ekso made with the Ekso GT to create a much more responsive exoskeleton with sensors and feedback that offer physical therapists a much more customizable approach to using the device in conjunction with physical therapy sessions. It was Ekso’s ongoing commitment to logistics and technological advancement in the field of robotics, not to mention our years of experience, that allowed us to pioneer such an exoskeleton.

Industrial exoskeletons help to prevent fatigue and improve endurance.

While Ekso’s clinical expertise has resulted in the only exoskeleton to be cleared by the FDA for brain injuries in addition to patients with spine injuries or strokes, people and businesses are also using our exoskeleton designs to help boost human performance in other ways. There are plenty of fields and occupations where the risk of injury is quite high if the proper steps are not followed. Even then, some workplace injuries are going to happen from overworking or repetitive movements. The human body can only withstand so much, even if it is in peak physical shape, driving Ekso to build an exoskeleton designed for industrial applications.

For example, Ekso sees potential for our exoskeleton models to be used in a broad array of construction and manufacturing tasks and not just in rehabilitation clinics with physical therapists. Many manufacturing lines still require a human element, and these sorts of human-powered lines run the risk of overuse injuries due to the rigorous, physical nature of the job. The EksoVest was one solution our wearable robotics company pioneered that gained traction in major companies like Ford and Boeing. The fact that these companies recognized the value offered by the EksoVest is clear, and science backs up these findings, too. Many estimates show that the injuries that come from overhead lifting, shoulder, and neck strain can be prevented by the use of the EksoVest and now, EVO, which aids in the performance of these tasks.

Not one to rest on laurels, our company launched the next generation of wearable robotics in 2020 called EVO, which builds upon the success EksoVest has had since 2016. With five years of experience and customer feedback onthe EksoVest, EVO offers increased safety and more efficient performance to construction workers, as well as those on manufacturing lines. With improved materials and a more customized fit, EVO is much more comfortable to use for an extended period of time. EVO is also more affordable for companies to adopt it to use in a variety of industrial applications, which not only helps protect workers, but also improves a business’s bottom line.

Robotics and exoskeleton technology are changing the way the world works in a variety of ways. From offering medical breakthroughs to increasing safety in physically demanding jobs, people are able to live and work better thanks to the presence of wearable exoskeletons. Throughout all of these cases, Ekso Bionics has been a pioneer, using its skills and expertise to continue pushing the world of wearable robotics forward. By leveraging technology and humans’ existing potential, we are finding ways to help the medical profession and manufacturing and construction industries evolve in previously unthinkable ways. Thanks to partnerships with world-renowned businesses and thought leaders in these fields, our company continues to find ways to help exoskeletons evolve to meet the growing demand for such applications. Since 2005, Ekso has been making significant contributions, not only to the world of robotics, but to the lives and livelihoods of real people all across the globe.

It can be one of the scariest things in the world to wake up from an illness or injury and realize that natural motor functions have been compromised. Serious spinal cord injury, strokes, or brain trauma can cause issues with paralysis or loss of function that may affect a patient’s overall quality of life. Ekso Bionics is committed to giving that sense of freedom back to patients with wearable robotic exoskeletons that can increase mobility and help patients get back on their feet in no time.

EksoNR© is a uniquely designed exoskeleton that works with the wearer to help regain natural movement, find their balance, and begin walking long distances. This leading technology is helping physical therapists and rehabilitation specialists aid patients post stroke, brain injury, and spinal cord injury in many different ways. This rehabilitation tool is helping individuals conquer their disability and get more personal freedom back. There are plenty of unique features about EksoNR exoskeleton that help patients increase their mobility in revolutionary ways.

Who benefits from EksoNR?

EksoNR is designed specifically for neurorehabilitation. In fact, EksoNR is the first medical exoskeleton that is FDA cleared to treat stroke, spinal cord injury (SCI) and acquired brain injuries (ABI). At this point in time, this is actually the only FDA cleared exoskeleton to be used as a clinical rehabilitation tool for ABI. Clinicians across the globe find that this wearable device benefits their patients while going through rehabilitation.

As patients relearn how to walk and regain their motor functions, the exoskeleton gives them support without becoming a long term crutch. The exoskeleton robot can adjust to most patients’ bodies and work in a number of different ways. Overall, the physical therapist will be able to control the interface between the rehabilitation device and the patient to help them get back on their feet sooner.

Work with the wearable robot to improve natural function.

EksoNR is revolutionizing the game when it comes to rehabilitative devices. While powered exoskeletons have been around for a while, our specific exoskeleton technology works with patients to meet them at their current stage of recovery. These aren’t assistive devices or crutches that are relied upon for an extended period of time. This wearable robot will only give the limbs the amount of support they need, allowing a patient’s muscles to relearn certain motions and get used to bearing weight and balancing. Therapists can adjust the robotic device in real-time so each weight shift starts to feel more natural and eventually the patient gains strength to take over. EksoNR, a critical rehabilitative tool, will require your patients to be active participants in their recovery.

Help with walking speed, gait, and consistency.

Every person has their own unique way of walking. Some may take wide steps while someone else’s gait is more narrow. Working with EksoNR exoskeleton, patients get to improve their personal mobility through consistency and repetition. The medical exoskeleton is designed for specific, rehabilitative use. With the help of specific algorithms and data analysis, the wearable robot will adapt to each patient’s body. A patient won’t be adapting to the exoskeleton, rather the robotic technology will work with their body specifically and adapt to them. From help at the torso, hips, knee joints, and more, this exoskeleton design makes a natural gait and longer walking distances more accessible than ever before.

Rehabilitation happens at each patient’s pace.

The beauty of EksoNR is that it helps with every step of the rehabilitation process. The same device that helps stroke victims relearn how to stand upright will also help that individual when it comes to taking their first step or walking down the hallway. EksoNR exoskeleton will be the same wearable robot that they’ll use on their future visits to the rehabilitation center. From standing and sitting to gait training, these rehabilitation robots work at each patient’s pace and help them get back to many different activities of daily living.

The personalized design is revolutionary.

When you hear about powered exoskeletons, chances are you picture bulky suits that may bring discomfort to your patients. This is not the case with Ekso Bionics’ exoskeletons. The design is revolutionary and removes any major limitations for your patients. The exoskeleton design allows patients to strap in without worrying about bearing extra weight as they work. In a way, this is a control strategy. The personalized design makes it easier for patients to forget they’re even wearing an exoskeleton. They can start to gain confidence in their own lower extremities as they gain momentum in their rehabilitation. Thanks to the design, these robotics work directly with patients to help them see improvements in their mobility more quickly than ever before.

Ekso is available worldwide.

While Ekso Bionics is based in California, the company is committed to reaching patients and physical therapists across the globe. From the United States to Australia, patients are getting the important treatment and hope that they need thanks to these wearable exoskeletons. Not only is this technology helping with the mobility of patients with chronic stroke, brain or spinal cord injury, it is mobile throughout the rehabilitation communities.

Hear some inspiring stories of how robot exoskeletons are changing lives.

Royal Rehab is the first rehabilitation center to bring this life-changing technology to Australia. This medical exoskeleton technology is helping patients from all walks of life with differing forms of paralysis gain more mobility than they ever thought possible.

One featured patient named Alex was injured in a sports accident as a teenager and was left in a quadriplegic state. Thanks to the exoskeleton, he is up and walking and regaining a sense of normalcy in his life.

Ken is another patient with an inspiring story. He was paralyzed at age 21 from an infection on his spinal cord. After decades in a wheelchair, he first started using EksoNR in his 70s. Ken is now able to walk again and has increased his walking distance and speed in just a few short weeks. This technology is shaping the lives of so many patients around the world. Imagine how it can help your rehabilitation center.

The construction and manufacturing industries are inherently hazardous and involve great deals of lifting, overhead work, and other repetitive tasks that can cause fatigue and injuries. Workplace injuries naturally cause trauma to the injured worker and the crew, and other potential effects include missed work time and a general loss of productivity on the job site. What if these situations could be entirely avoided? Ekso Bionics believes that they can be.

Ekso Bionics is the world leader in exoskeleton technology, and our assistive technology is used in a variety of industries, including neurorehabilitation with our latest models. Ekso has always believed in using our technology to enhance human capabilities and empower mobility in wearers. This began with our HULC model, which was used in military applications and special operations. The purpose was to help an industrial marine carry heavy loads over longer distances and at greater speeds than typically possible. While the support exoskeleton did technically work, it also put a strain on the user’s body, failed a functional performance validation standard, and was discontinued due to this issue.

Ever since that, Ekso has been working on other solutions for the benefit of humanity, and many of these have great industrial applications. Here are just a few of our devices that are improving the construction and manufacturing industries.

Ekso Vest

This was Ekso’s first passive exoskeleton meant for industrial settings. The durable vest would attach similar to a harness around the wearer’s waist where it would connect up through the spine and shoulder supports. This support helped workers lift heavy objects more easily, which made it a great option for overhead work, such as installing oil filters in vehicles. In fact, our partnership with Ford is what brought the Ekso Vest into the public light after workers started praising the device.

With its lightweight design, it was able to improve muscle activity, and lower metabolic costs, all without putting strain on the rest of the body thanks to symmetric lifts. While the exoskeleton didn’t grant users the strength of Iron Man, it did make repetitive lifting tasks easier, helped improve commercial transportation manufacturing, and had a variety of industrial applications. We found that the vests didn’t support a full range of motion, which could make working in certain conditions difficult. Finding this inspired us to improve and design a more ergonomic solution.

Ekso EVO

Our EVO exoskeleton is the latest evolution in industrial shoulder exoskeletons and technologies. This piece of personal protection equipment was designed in collaboration with existing customers, physical therapists, and partner feedback to provide the best in physical workload support. It currently boasts titles as the world’s most durable, naturally-tracking, and assistive exo vest.

Like the previous vest, the harness connects to the hips, so workers don’t have to worry about thigh connections or any lower body interference. Rather than a single spine support connecting to the shoulders, EVO features two support bars connecting the hips to the shoulder supports. The device features a custom fit for each worker with adjustable lift assistance and a personal height range. Large arm holes make for an easy fit and improved logistics, and minimal contact points means improved cooling.

The exoskeleton functions are backed by data from clinician testing, collected in PMID, that shows that worker capabilities are nearly endless when it comes to standing positions and overhead work thanks to superior back muscles and shoulder support. This is also thanks to a partnership with smart assist that ensured the device allowed for full strength with the full natural range of motion, meaning that a wearer’s torso, hips, thighs, and arms can move freely without resistance.

This design keeps the device as lightweight as possible for maximum comfort. Spring-loaded technology also eliminates the need for any kind of power supply or recharging. This means that there’s plenty of room to add a fall harness, further increasing safety. The rugged outer shell makes for easy care of the exoskeleton, and you can even boost its visibility with reflective tape. Workers can even control the amount of assistance for each arm separately, thanks to asymmetrical controls.

EVO is the ultimate solution to improve safety at construction sites, eliminate worker fatigue, eliminate workplace injuries, and improve productivity and worker output.

Ekso ZeroG

EVO isn’t the only way that Ekso is innovating in the construction industry. Reducing muscle fatigue thanks to overhead tasks and repetitive motions is great, but these factors aren’t the only reasons that construction workers report a high rate of injuries and pain. Oftentimes, this is due to lifting and holding heavy tools for extended periods. Now, there’s a way to get around that too. You can reduce muscle strain even more, as well as improve accuracy and workmanship with large tools, thanks to EksoZeroG.

This zero gravity arm is designed to be mounted for aerial construction jobs, such as on construction scaffolding or other aerial workstations. The spring-loaded arm is able to transfer the weight of heavy tools to its base and then into the ground, thus providing a truly weightless feeling to workers using the tool. It’s able to hold heavy tools weight up to 42 lbs., such as large drills, impact wrenches, industrial grinders, and more.

Maintenance of the unit is easy and mostly just involves keeping it clean and ensuring that moving parts are clear of debris, It currently isn’t designed to mount to a rolling cart or operator, but new innovations may remedy this in the future. It’s important to note that while the device can support loads up to 42 lbs., it only actually provides 36 lbs. of lift, so heavier tools won’t feel totally weightless.

Ekso Bionics continues researching and improving its technologies at all times. Our devices are frequently covered by IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization, so you can keep up with any relevant news. There’s little doubt that more innovations will be coming to the construction industry soon.

A spinal cord injury (SCI) is defined as damage to any part of the spinal cord itself or to the nerves at the end of the spinal canal. These are generally traumatic injuries caused by external forces like heavy blows or cuts to the spine. Automobile accidents are the most common causes, with motorcycle accidents in the lead.

The most frequent consequence of this kind of injury is a lack of neural communication at and below the injury level, which typically results in a loss of motor function or sensation. If the injury is severe enough, it may even result in permanent alterations to muscle tissues. Losing the ability to use lower extremities naturally leads to a great loss of physical activity, which also puts patients with SCI at greater risk of cardiovascular and respiratory disorders. Even when these individuals do exercise, their cardiovascular response may be impaired.

Naturally, these changes have an enormous impact on the quality of life for patients and could even get in the way of the activities of daily living. Unfortunately, these injuries aren’t especially rare, either, with an estimated 17,700 new cases per year in the United States. The traumatic nature of these injuries makes them different from some forms of acquired brain injuries (ABIs), which can have similar consequences, including lower limb disability. ABIs, however, more frequently stem  from internal sources, such as strokes or neurological disorders.

There is hope, however, for spinal cord injury patients to make recoveries. Clinical trials and advancements in medical exoskeleton technology are helping patients relearn to walk with assisted gait training. Here are some examples of these exoskeleton programs and the effects they have on wearers.

EksoGT©

Ekso Bionics is the world leader in wearable robotic exoskeletons. Our exoskeleton technology is used in a variety of industries, including both medical use and industrial applications. Lately, however, Ekso has been making more moves on the medical scene with lower limb powered exoskeletons that can help patients with stroke, ABIs, and SCIs.

Our first exoskeleton to be used in a clinical setting with physical therapists was the eLEGS model or Exoskeleton Lower Extremity Gait System. It allowed patients with paraplegia to stand and walk in a straight line. We made a significant upgrade in 2013 with our EksoGT model, which was the first robotic exoskeleton to be cleared by the FDA to be used with patients with stroke and those with SCI. This rehabilitation device was the first of its kind to apply adaptive amounts of power to either side of a patient’s body, which allowed patients to experience longer training sessions and to challenge themselves. This feature was especially useful for patients with stroke, who may experience pusher syndrome, a situation where stroke patients tend to weight shift to one side of their body. This model helped patients retain upright posture and spend more time standing throughout their entire session.

In 2020, a study came out about the energy cost and psychological impact of exoskeleton assisted gait training for patients with SCI. In this study, the EksoGT model was compared directly with the Lokomat stationary treadmill system. 15 SCI patients with varying degrees of injury were chosen to participate in gait therapy using these two devices. At the beginning of the study, each patient underwent three sessions on both devices. Afterward, each patient was assigned 17 additional gait training sessions on one of the two assistive devices. Outcomes being measured were the level of oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, metabolic equivalents, walking economy, and heart rate when using the assistive devices.

Overall the EksoGT model showed higher metabolic responses as well as higher scores of fatigue, both mentally and physically compared to the Lokomat. All patients showed improvement in walking economy, and both methods scored high on psychological and emotional satisfaction.

EksoNR©

Currently, the EksoNR wearable robotic exoskeleton is being used in rehabilitation centers and is billed as the go-to next step in neurorehabilitation. EksoNR is the first robotic exoskeleton to achieve Food and Drug Administration clearance to treat patients with stroke, SCI, and ABI. It is currently considered the most effective option for retraining a patient’s brain and muscles to walk again, and it has demonstrated real results with clinicians in helping patients transition from wheelchairs to crutches and, eventually, their own feet.

EksoNR has a variety of features that make it superior to previous models. It still attaches comfortably to the torso, hips, and legs to provide excellent support to hip joints, knee joints, and ankle joints. No other robot model provides more options for weight and posture support to ensure that patients are always getting the most out of their rehabilitation sessions. Smart sensors are able to continuously monitor gait patterns to regulate leg movements and prevent compensatory patterns. Clinicians can also set training goals in real-time to monitor assistance levels in each leg based on patient feedback. SmartAssist software can even support various impairment levels, ranging from full walking assistance to reacting to patient-initiated movements with a high degree of freedom.

The EksoNR program also comes with PreGait, a rehabilitation software suite that can help patients practice standing, shifting weight, test out knee motion, and step in place, all before they actually begin their gait training. This can ease patients into the idea of walking in an exoskeleton, help with building confidence, and encourage patients to make the most out of sessions. The fact that EksoNR requires active participation from all patients is proven to help promote brain plasticity, making it easier to train the brain and muscles to work again. 

Lastly, the EksoNR program allows advanced users or patients with more strength and coordination to walk with added resistance on one or both legs.  In this FreeGait mode, patients can also work on motor planning without the robotic trajectory.  This enables patients to work on increasing endurance, enhancing their cardiovascular output, and gaining speed during walking. 

The Future

If you are interested in bringing these robotic devices to your clinical practice, you can request more information or a demo from an Ekso Bionics expert. Ekso takes partnerships with clinicians seriously and will work to make your experience the best it can be. There are always new technology advancements coming out, too. With further research and development, there’s little doubt that the future for SCI and other neuro-affected patients will look even brighter.

Exoskeleton technology is an up-and-coming field that has already helped thousands of individuals across the globe. Thanks to the research and developments at Ekso Bionics, wearers of these vests and robots have newfound mobility that can help in all sorts of areas. Whether you are recovering from an injury or working to prevent one, there are countless ways exoskeletons can help improve your life and your industry.

Of course, new robotics and exoskeletons aren’t an investment you can take lightly. They are just that, an investment. It is important that you know what you’re getting yourself into before you jump in. Overall a robot exoskeleton helps the wearer increase their mobility after paralysis, give extra power to certain limbs, increase endurance, help with fatigue from repetitive movement, and aid in heavy lifting. Power exoskeletons can help all kinds of professionals from physical therapists to warehouse foremen. Understanding the logistics is the first step to deciding if exoskeletons have industry applications you can benefit from. Here are a few of the industries we believe need access to exoskeletons to help with their work and will benefit the most from the assistance.

Healthcare

While there are a lot of different branches and areas of healthcare that we will get into in a moment, there are general applications for exoskeletons and Ekso bionics within hospitals and clinics. Medical exoskeletons are great in clinical settings. The biggest example is for stroke victims that are relearning how to walk with a natural gait without a crutch. The exoskeleton has sensors that can connect to your spinal cord, knee joint, ankle joint, waist, or thighs. Because our wearable robotic exoskeletons come in different shapes and sizes, clinicians can adjust the assistive device to aid patients in different ways. This clinical setting provides actual results for stroke victims, individuals dealing with a loss of mobility, or those in rehabilitation from surgery. It is a new way to give care to patients without discomfort by allowing them a sense of freedom with lightweight designs and personalized assistive devices.

Physical Therapy

Out of all the clinicians who will benefit from a bionic exoskeleton, physical therapists have more opportunities than anyone else. Patients in physical therapy are working to loosen joints, recover from athletic or workplace injuries, or just going through neurorehabilitation. Physical therapists can combine exercises with exoskeleton technology to provide actual results for their patient progress. Rehabilitation devices and robotic technology help patients get back to their normal mobility and joint flexibility in no time because the wearable robot can challenge patients without causing overexertion. Whether it is for personal use or clinical trials, this technology can clearly benefit rehabilitation centers and the world of physical therapy.

Disability Management

Innovative technology from the industry leaders is creating progress and going beyond what was previously thought possible. For individuals with a disability, spinal cord injury patients, or wheelchair users, walking or standing on their own may seem like a distant memory. But thanks to exoskeletons, disabled patients may actually get the chance to return to activities of daily living. Strapped into an exoskeleton robot, these individuals can remain in a stand position or even start taking a few steps. By helping the lower limbs function and connect with the spinal cord, these individuals can make progress toward regaining some degree of freedom. While there are still uncertainties and each case of a spinal cord injury is different, this is a huge step in the right direction for disability management and motor function. Progress in these human capabilities can lead to a better quality of life for patients.

Construction

Switching gears from injury management to injury prevention leads us to many other industries that can benefit from a robotic exoskeleton. One of the first areas is on a construction job site. Construction workers are tasked with doing continuous, draining physical labor. They are expected to move heavy pieces of rubble, hammer away for hours, and stay on their feet for an entire shift. The body is only built to withstand so much and can easily get fatigued over time. Wearable robotics are lightweight and can provide support to construction workers during heavy lifting and repetitive movements. This will aid productivity in the overall site and prevent injury. Lower the time it takes to finish a task by providing your workers with an extra power source and much-needed strength. You can see improvements in real-time and help guarantee your team does not get overworked.

Warehouse Work

Similar to construction, warehouse work and distribution is an industry that Ekso bionics was specifically designed for. This field revolves around constantly carrying and moving heavy loads. Do not let your employees break their back spending the whole shift in an industrial setting with no assistance. Utilize the help of Ekso to adopt wearable vests or exoskeletons that help give extra strength in these situations. A partnership with Ekso will show your employees that you have their back. You want to reduce the number of risks within a warehouse setting. Rather than letting people overexert themselves or do repetitive movements with no reprieve, give them a tool that will make all those tasks easier on the body.

Repetitive Jobs with Heavy Loads

While industrial settings like construction sites and warehouses benefit most from such devices, other fields involve repetitive movement and heavy lifting that will benefit from exoskeleton technology. Any time you are putting the body in a strenuous position, it can be useful to rely on an exoskeleton robot to help you. It lowers risks and helps productivity in many different ways. If these tasks are involved in your industry, this may be a good solution for you.

Whether you are using exoskeletons for clinical use or within the workplace, you are sure to enjoy the benefits of this innovative, new technology. Trust Ekso Bionics to get your industry where it needs to go with advanced software and a human touch. We can’t wait to help you with whatever you may need.

Walking is something that many individuals take for granted. You can simply get out of bed in the morning, walk to your bathroom, and not have to deal with any uncertainties or major limitations as you go about your day. For individuals recovering from a stroke, spinal cord injury, or brain trauma, these simple acts can be tremendously difficult.

Rehabilitation centers exist to help get patients back home as quickly as possible, so they can get back to a relatively normal life. Physical therapists work with these individuals in a clinic setting to help with gait training, endurance, and oftentimes learning to walk again. Exciting developments in the world of neurorehabilitation are opening the door for these patients to recover more quickly and get back to normal daily activities.

Ekso Bionics takes pride in being an industry leader for robotic exoskeletons. Our wearable robots are helping patients get out of their wheelchairs and back to walking on their own. A partnership between Ekso Bionics and trained physical therapists can help improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall quality of life for these individuals. EksoNR has gone through clinical trials and is an exoskeleton technology specifically designed to help with neurorehabilitation. We believe this technology is changing the future of wearable robotics and can have a dramatic impact on rehab centers across the globe.

Robotic Exoskeletons for Neurorehabilitation

EksoNR is the next step toward freedom and innovation with wearable robots in rehab facilities. Our creative design and unique software allows patients to practice their gait and track their progress. Clinicians can work one-on-one with patients to track their goals, modify assistance levels, and give real-time feedback. Unlike basic exoskeletons, EksoNR adapts to the patient’s body and level of activity. It also supports posture, so all joints are aligned, and won’t contribute to muscle fatigue. This innovative wearable device works with the patient to move through a natural range of motion, depending on condition, level of ability, or patient readiness. This individuality and progressive nature will provide lasting results that can be monumental for your patient population.

Different Levels of Freedom

What sets the innovative design of EksoNR apart is the different levels of freedom the wearable device can provide throughout patient progress. Some exoskeletons will completely support the full body weight and not allow patients any level of contribution or room for improvement. But if they always have a crutch, how will they ever get away from the rehabilitative tool?

Instead, EksoNR allows for a progressive strategy. When a patient first starts working with robotic technologies in spinal cord injury rehabilitation, the device may provide a majority of the walking power. But as a patient becomes more comfortable and gains balance, strength, and coordination, the exoskeleton can adjust and simply offer minimal support instead of doing all the work. It grows with the patient as their gait training progresses, and they’re able to walk more independently. This helps get real results instead of allowing for complacency or hitting plateaus.

Physical Therapist and FDA Approved

Ekso is leading the field in rehabilitation innovations. As the first FDA-approved wearable robot to help with brain injury, spinal cord injury, and stroke rehabilitation, EksoNR is ahead of the competition. Physical therapists also back the product because this new technology is supported by clinical research and allows them to progress their patients quickly, safely, and effectively. Our wearable robotic exoskeleton has been approved for clinical practice where patients of different shapes, sizes, and ability levels can experience the freedom of walking once again.

Benefits and Outcomes

Physical therapy and rehabilitation are all about setting goals and meeting those outcome measures. With innovative rehabilitative tools, each wearer will reap the benefits of EksoNR. When relearning to walk after a stroke or brain trauma, finding balance can be tricky for your patient. Because the exoskeleton robot assists the lower limbs and torso, the patient will be supported every step of the way, literally. Your patient can start by working on a functional level of balance with this medical device.

After your patient is up and standing, it’s time for them to take their exciting first steps. Chances are that their gait may be a little off due to the neurological trauma. Our exoskeleton will provide the proper gait mechanics to help the patient earn and gain mobility at their own pace. Eventually, performing leg movements and walking for a significant length of time without muscle fatigue will be possible. EksoNR will also help with gait symmetry and eventually lower the patient’s dependence on the exoskeleton until walking unassisted is achieved.

Relearning a physical activity can be mentally and physically taxing. At first, your patient may not be able to walk far or stay in a standing position for a significant length of time. But the use of these devices will eventually have them walking long distances without assistance if their injury allows for that. It takes time and dedication, but our tools can help your patients see actual results after a few rehabilitation sessions.

EksoNR is changing lives.

If you think EksoNR sounds too good to be true, we’re here to assure you that it isn’t. There are many real-life examples of this technology changing lives. Follow this story from Promedica Total Rehab of a gentleman who experienced a stroke just before Christmas. When he felt his whole left side go numb, he knew it was time to go to the hospital. After almost a month of intense medical treatment and physical therapy, he walked out on his own accord. Thanks to exoskeleton technology, this stroke survivor was able to make a full recovery, regain his natural gait, and go back home to a normal life.

If you work at a rehabilitation center for individuals suffering from a stroke, spinal cord injury, or brain injury, see if the usability of innovative wearable robots may be a good option for your patients to overcome any disability. Working with Ekso can give your neurologically injured or stroke patients find renewed hope that their life can continue as normal. This also has immense psychological benefits that they can conquer anything. We firmly believe that our company’s technology can make a huge difference for your rehabilitation centers and the lives of your patients.

When you think of robotics, you probably picture a free-roaming robot that helps you with your household chores. While that may have been the picture old Sci-Fi movies painted, modern applications of robotic technology are actually much cooler and more practical. At Ekso Bionics, our scientists and technicians work tirelessly to create exoskeleton technology with industrial applications that stretch the limits of human capabilities.

A wearable robot gives you new comfort and abilities while performing repetitive tasks without limitations. Industrial workers can improve their endurance and get actual results without worrying about worker fatigue. Our commitment is to help job sites become safer and more efficient. Ekso Bionics has seen actual results when it comes to alleviating the risks of workplace injuries. We are proud to be an industry leader and leading developer of exoskeleton solutions. Your business matters to you, so your industrial workers matter to us. Here are just a few ways our revolutionary EVO design can help reduce the number of risks within your industrial workplace.

The Evolution of EVO

EVO is a new vest that is designed to provide power without any pain. This design is not our first iteration of innovative wearable robots. The EksoVest was our first vest designed for industrial use. After years in the field, we gained tremendous insights into how we could make it better. By fixing uncertainties and making the product more durable, EVO is shaping the evolution of industrial exoskeletons. With enhanced comfort, reduced heat, and increased flexibility, these new features are ready to prevent muscle strain, overexertion, and fatigue.

It helps with heavy lifting.

Normally, industrial workers need to be tough and strong because their job revolves around heavy-lifting and ruggedness. However, if you spend your day lifting incorrectly or hoisting heavy objects above your head, this can be a leading cause of back or shoulder injuries. That’s where Ekso EVO comes in. By strapping on this exoskeleton, your overhead work becomes a breeze. You aren’t responsible for taking all the weight any more thanks to this technology solution that helps bear the weight. Sharing the load is a programmatic solution to reduce your risk of serious injuries.

It cuts down on fatigue.

Workdays can easily get repetitive and tiring. When you’re constantly using the same muscles, they can undergo general wear and tear. The burden of repetitive work leads to higher risks for work-related injuries. When you get tired or fatigued, you just don’t work as effectively, and you may lose focus on your company’s operations. The next step is finding a solution to help you feel less fatigued and increase your endurance. An EVO device works with the natural movement of the body to help with your day-to-day use. This way, you aren’t causing extra strain on certain joints that you’re working all day. The exoskeleton gives you an added boost when you need it most and is almost like a crutch to help you get through all your projects.

Works smarter, not harder.

Some global manufacturing companies may think they can operate without the added assistance, but the point is, you don’t have to. Every workplace has a number of injury risks, even for the most skilled workers. The result of these risks can be a serious injury which will be seen as your company’s failure. Instead of waiting a significant length of time hoping disruptions never occur, start working smarter now.

EVO, along with our other additional technology and exoskeleton solutions, prioritizes working smarter, not harder. Because these vests offer a wide range of movement that goes with your natural joints and muscles, it simply acts as an aid. With an unrestricted range of motion, you can operate as normal, just with a buffer to help you carry the load. This allows your body to operate the way it’s supposed to, so you don’t put added strain on your muscles and joints.

Lightweight solutions work with you, not against you.

Past upper-body exoskeleton devices offered results but could be cumbersome and uncomfortable for the wearer. These devices are supposed to help you with your work, not be a heavy load itself. The new EVO design is the ideal solution. More lightweight than ever, EVO shows a commitment to work with you instead of causing an extra burden. The flexibility also boasts an unrestricted range of motion without any hassle. Our design is created to withstand the test of time. Even after millions of cycles and movements, the device architecture will remain intact. EVO’s novel design took the adverse results from its predecessor and now offers a better user experience.

It offers support to past injuries.

While you’re working to reduce the number of workplace injuries at your company’s supply chain, you can’t go back in time to stop any past injuries your workers have endured. If you have team members with trouble areas from past injuries at other companies, EVO can help them going forward. Our company’s products are backed by physical therapists and can help the quality of life and work for individuals recovering from injury. Every day strain or the burden of repetitive work may be extra risky for these individuals, so a rehabilitative upper-body exoskeleton can help them work more efficiently without fear of exacerbating an injury.

Could Ekso EVO help your industry?

As one of the first companies to develop these exoskeletons, we believe EVO’s innovative design can have a vast impact on many different industries. If you’re reevaluating your company’s business plans, consider how this new acquisition model can offer faster results for your numbers. Rehabilitative tools will reduce the risk of injury, increase endurance and motivation for your employees, and show you care about their overall wellbeing. Fields like manufacturing, construction, and general industrial work could use innovative ways to help workers with overall productivity. We truly believe there are potential benefits for your organization to utilize Ekso Bionics. Stop doing hard work when our ergonomics have produced actual results in multiple field evaluations. We are here to help you reduce the risk of workplace injury and improve the overall effectiveness of the company.

Suffering from a traumatic brain injury can be a life-changing event. Depending on the complications, you could experience paralysis, brain trauma, or have to adjust to a completely different pace of life. Recovering from spinal cord injury, serious accident, or a stroke, usually requires many sessions of physical therapy at rehabilitation centers to learn how to walk again and get back to daily activities. The strain of recovery can also lead to challenges and different perspectives within the clinic setting.

Physical therapy is a journey that patients go through to regain motivation and the ability to go back to the activities of daily living. Therapists work one-on-one with clients to help them find this sense of hope. Luckily, innovators have come up with new tools and robotics to help with this recovery treatment. A partnership with medical exoskeletons can help shift perspectives and hit new milestones to help with patient endurance and speed of rehabilitation. A wearable robot offers individual freedom and gait training that gives spinal cord and brain injured or stroke patients a strategy and path to reach their full potential.

At Ekso Bionics, we work diligently to improve our exoskeleton technology so physical therapists can use our innovative wearable robots to help patients take their next steps towards recovery, literally. We believe in putting the power in the patients’ hands and helping to challenge the physical limits and human capabilities in neurorehabilitation. Our powered exoskeletons can be the intervention you need to find success and take your rehabilitation centers to the next level and help more people than ever.

Reasons a patient may need neurorehabilitation.

Neurorehabilitation is all about helping patients relearn how their bodies should function after serious trauma. There are multiple reasons why a patient may need this assistance. After surviving a stroke or serious car accident, your limbs, muscles, and joints may not be ready for extensive use or have much endurance. Patients can experience fatigue after standing for a short time or they may have trouble with weight shifts or gait training. Rehab and physical therapy can help individuals regain these motor functions and lead to improved outcomes for the patient.

Consider mental barriers as well as physical ones.

Patients who have suffered a spinal cord injury, brain trauma, or a stroke are working to overcome physical limitations caused by their accidents. However, what many people may not realize are the mental barriers that these patients may also need to overcome. They may be carrying a heavy load of depression or anxiety because of the huge changes to their lives and the uncertainties involved in their situation. As clinicians or physical therapists, it’s important to consider this perspective as well. How can you help rehabilitate the mind and the body? The best way to see significant improvement in rehab centers is by helping the patient find motivation, hope, and a sense of independence once again. We believe exoskeletons can contribute positively to these psychological benefits.

How Ekso bionics and EksoNR can help.

Ekso is proud to produce the only exoskeleton that is FDA-approved for medical use with brain injury and the first exoskeleton approved for spinal cord injury and stroke rehabilitation. As an industry leader in medical device products, our EksoNR design is a medical exoskeleton that allows patients to provide as much power as they can while only filling in the patient’s deficit.. Other robotic technology is much more restrictive and doesn’t include advanced features like added resistance and backwards walking. The EksoNR medical device works with the patients’ joints to help the wearer gain confidence in their gait and walking improvements. Our wearable robotics are adaptable and offer real-time adjustments and posture support throughout rehabilitation. We designed the exoskeleton to help patients eventually walk without it. After all, a rehabilitative device shouldn’t be necessary forever, as long as you can see actual results and improvements.

Putting the power back in patients’ hands.

One of the best ways to increase potential benefits and help motivate your patients to find a perspective of optimism is to put the power back in their hands. A robotic exoskeleton works as a rehabilitative device with settings to ultimately challenge patients to regain their mobility. After working with a therapist and a wearable device at a clinical practice for a few rehabilitation sessions, your patient should be able to support their bodyweight for a longer duration, experience less muscle fatigue, and walk for a significant length of time without the dependence on an exoskeleton device. Not only does this help with patient progress for physical activities, but it can help patients feel confident and optimistic about their future once again.

Allowing for a challenge and gaining actual results.

The adaptability of robotic exoskeletons allows for physical therapists to challenge patients in new ways. The first time your patients use wearable robotics, it may help them focus on staying in a standing position and holding up their body weight for longer than they can without the EksoNR. Session two can be about taking a few steps. After multiple days in the rehabilitation institute, you’ll see significant improvement for your patients as they walk hundreds or thousands of steps with minimal assistance from the power source. The advanced technology within the wearable exoskeleton allows you to adjust the assistance and walking parameters at any given moment. By challenging your patients, you’ll see actual results and help the human body reach its full potential.

But don’t just take our word for it, check out this story about a young lady whose life has been changed thanks to Ekso Bionics. Kylie was injured in a serious accident that left her in a coma. Working with Ekso allowed her to grow and adapt to her new lifestyle. After only a few rehabilitation sessions with the exoskeleton system, she was able to take over 1,000 steps with a more natural gait. Her team of doctors and therapists spoke to the benefits of EksoNR helping her find optimism, focus, and motivation. These robot suits offer help with a physical disability, but also give new perspectives and encouragement as well.

Take the next steps with us.

If you think an exoskeleton device may be a great new technology for your rehabilitation institute and clinical use, check out our robotic exoskeleton today. Our company’s technology is helping stroke survivors, accident victims, and individuals with spinal cord injuries take their next steps toward healing, literally and figuratively. Our smart assist software can help you see greater improvement in the lives of your patient population. Don’t let neurologic conditions stop your patients from a great quality of life. See how wearable robotic exoskeletons can make a difference in your clinical practice.

Ekso Bionics is the world leader in providing exoskeleton technology that improves quality of life and enhances human capabilities. Their first exosuit, HULC, was used in military applications and allowed soldiers to carry heavy loads across long distances and at greater speeds. Since then, they’ve continued to build on their robotic suit offerings, and they’re still used by DARPA to this day.

Ekso has also branched into neurorehabilitation and physical therapy. With their EksoNR program, stroke patients, those with acquired brain injuries, and even patients suffering paraplegia from incomplete spinal cord injuries (SCI) can be trained to walk again and regain their natural gait. More and more often, however, Ekso Bionics is bringing its expertise to industrial applications, such as wearables and robot tools for construction workers, manufacturing, and the automotive industry. Here are just a few of their most successful products for industrial applications and how they’re leading to safer practices.

EksoVest

Constructions workers and other industry employees are at greater risk for workplace injuries compared to most of the population. In addition to the physical pain and mental stress caused to the injured worker, workplace injuries also cost productivity and can lower employee morale. Such injuries are most commonly caused by overexertion and worker fatigue. EksoWorks believes that all workplace injuries are preventable.

The EksoVest is the original upper body wearable technology that provides lift assistance and increased endurance for workers. The vest wraps around workers like a harness, connecting near the hips and once again at the upper arm. It supports worker’s arms through repetitive motions and heavy lifting. The vest is probably most well-known thanks to its test run with the Ford group. The Ford Motor Company used the EksoVest to help assembly line workers perform overhead tasks, such as installing oil filters in vehicles, for increased periods of time. It greatly reduced the physical toll of the vehicle assembly process, and feedback from these tests was used to improve the vest even further.

Ekso EVO

This is the modern evolution of the EksoVest. Boasting the tagline “power without the pain,” EVO is a durable and comfortable vest the assists workers with tasks at chest height and overhead work alike. EVO provides greater temperature control than the original model, and it can track the full range of movement, so even extreme movements are totally unrestricted.

In addition to the assembly improvements, EVO is still a spring-loaded suit that requires no batteries or power whatsoever, so workers can take it on a tough job anywhere without having to worry. EVO even allows workers to toggle how weight is balanced on each shoulder, so they’re in complete control and can adjust settings without any help.

Ekso ZeroG

This solution is essentially a robot arm that workers can use to carry and hold heavy tools. It can be deployed anywhere, but it’s mainly used for aerial jobs, such as on construction scaffolding. The arm supports a wide variety of tools weighing up to 42 lbs including rotary hammers, rivet busters, grinders, drills, and more.

Like EVO, this is an entirely spring-loaded solution, so workers don’t have to worry about lugging around a power supply for deployment. The arms essentially transfer the weight from the tool into its base and then into the ground, so workers can experience a true sense of weightlessness when using the tools. This includes virtually zero-effort tool movement as well. At this time, it can be safely mounted to aerial work platforms and scaffolding, but as the technology advances, it will likely be mountable on other surfaces in the future.

Combining EVO and ZeroG will provide your workforce with everything they need to cut down on incident rates, improve performance, and boost morale.

Contact Ekso Bionics

Exoskeletons and robots may sound as though they belong in a sci-fi film, but they don’t. Exoskeletons belong right here, among the millions of people experiencing the effects of neurological and physical injuries leading to weakness and paralysis. To learn more about the newest exosuit technology and how they can help your application, reach out to the Ekso Bionics team today.

Physical therapists and clinicians are a vital part of the rehabilitation process for many different kinds of patients. Whether an individual is recovering from spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, or strokes, patients need assistance when relearning how to perform everyday functions–such as standing or walking. While rehabilitation centers have been around for many years, new innovations in wearable robots and exosuits are revolutionizing the field.

Lightweight robotic exosuits have numerous benefits for physical therapy patients, as well as rehabilitation sciences. This technology provides assistance to a patient’s joints and limbs while relearning how to walk within a clinical setting. With the help of mechanical power, stroke survivors and other patients can get back a sense of freedom with increased mobility. Gone are the days of wheelchairs and crutches, instead, patients have the opportunity to strap into exoskeleton robotics until they eventually get back to a normal walking speed on their own. After many clinical trials, physical therapists around the globe can now take advantage of the tech innovations our exosuits provide.

Benefits for Physical Therapy

So what makes exoskeletons different? When it comes to rehabilitation, there have been plenty of wearable tools to help patients get back on the treadmill and sensors to help gauge levels of improvement. But these tools addressed only individual problem areas and were limited in their ability to recreate a person’s full range of motion. Ekso’s exosuit technology works with your natural range of motion and offers assistive force with broad applicability. Robotic exoskeletons help with neurorehabilitation and physical therapy in innovative ways that offer an immediate effect and benefit.

Expanding a Patient’s Natural Gait

For stroke patients or individuals relearning how to walk, there can be mental blocks as well as physical difficulties associated with the learning process.  With a wearable robot, study participants can explore a new level of freedom and embrace their natural gait. Rather than following a rigid gait pattern of traditional suits, exosuit technology has functional textiles that assist your natural gait patterns rather than rewriting them. An exosuit will guarantee you are learning to rewalk without stressing or harming any other joints or muscles. The assistive force also helps patients with walking farther and endurance for standing positions. A patient’s gait mechanics are key to finding a sense of normalcy with their walking, and exosuit tech innovations are the tool to help patients meet these important outcomes.

Adjust A Patient’s Challenge Level in Real-time

Every physical therapist understands that in order to improve, a patient must be challenged physically to build strength, flexibility, and endurance. An exosuit can adjust to the level needed in real-time. Exoskeletons allow for the therapist to adjust the level of support provided to patients as they progress with treatment. So as patients improve, they will rely on the technology less and learn to walk without assistance. This increases the success of patient outcomes.

EksoNR is FDA Approved for Rehabilitation

Ekso takes pride in being a leader in the field of exoskeleton technology for all industries. We are taking critical steps to help improve the lives of stroke survivors and other injured persons. We are proud to say that our EksoNR is FDA approved as a rehab tool for physical therapists. After exploratory study, we are excited to help your patients take their next critical step to rewalking within stroke rehabilitation, brain injury recovery, or spinal cord injury recovery. The promise of the exosuit technology and other advancements can make a difference for your patients in a multitude of ways.

Contact Ekso Bionics

Exoskeletons and robots may sound as though they belong in a sci-fi film, but they don’t. Exoskeletons belong right here, among the millions of people experiencing the effects of neurological and physical injuries leading to weakness and paralysis. To learn more about the newest exosuit technology and how they can help your application, reach out to the Ekso Bionics team today.