The “Robotic Boot”

Scientists after years of careful development created a boot-like exoskeleton that increases walking speed and reduces effort.

Stanford Biomechatronics Laboratory scientists created exoskeleton emulators – lab-based robotic devices that help wearers walk and run faster, with less effort.

This “robotic boot” has a motor that works with calf muscles to give the wearer an extra push with every step. But, unlike other exoskeletons out there, this push is personalized thanks to a machine-learning-based model that was trained through years of work using emulators.

“This exoskeleton personalizes assistance as people walk normally through the real world,” said Steve Collins, associate professor of mechanical engineering who leads the Stanford Biomechatronics Laboratory. “And it resulted in exceptional improvements in walking speed and energy economy.”

source Stanford University