Exoskeleton technology developed by Simon Fraser University’s researchers hopes to offer people living with mobility issues a possibility of experiencing free and independent movement.
The exoskeleton is known as XoMotion and it took decades to research and design It is the product of a Sean Fraser University (SFU) spin-off company, Human in Motion Robotics (HMR).
SFU Professors Edward Park and Siamak Arzanpour wanted to help people with mobility challenges to walk freely, naturally and independently.
XoMotion is currently the most advanced of its kind in the world.
Chloe Angus, who had mobility challenges in her legs in 2015, now works for the team.
According to her, the exoskeleton makes her feel like herself again.
While talking to Global News, she said: “The one that has the most impact in my life is the day I stood up, and I walked across the lab and my husband happened to come around the corner to see me that day, and I walked up to him and I gave him a big hug and said, ‘honey, I’m back.’”
Augus was diagnosed with an inoperable benign tumor in her spinal cord in 2015 and that led to sudden and permanent loss of mobility in her legs. Doctors told her then that she would need a wheelchair to move for the rest of her life but she is now part of the project and defying all odds.
She added: “After all these years, the exoskeleton let me stand up and walk on my own without falling. I felt like myself again.”
In recent years, HMR has generated millions in funding and investment and they are looking towards the future.
While talking about how far they have come, Arzanpour said: “When I look back and see how far we’ve come, I can say that it wouldn’t have been possible without our amazing team. Everyone here believes in our mission and sees themselves as part of the progress and success of Human in Motion Robotics.”
