Sunday 26 May 2013

The Trade & Economic Office

High Tech, Life Science

ARGO Medical Technologies Unveils Advancement of its Exoskeleton Technology with Launch of ReWalk Rehabilitation 2.0

24 January 2013

ARGO Medical Technologies has unveiled the newest generation of its ReWalk Rehabilitation exoskeleton that enables individuals with spinal cord injuries the ability to walk again. The 2.0 system is designed to make it easier to treat multiple individuals each day, it also has new software features that support beginner users and new sizing that allows each system to fit a broader range of patients.

The Israeli company, founded by Dr. Amit Goffer in 2001, develops, manufactures and markets walk restoration devices for people with lower limb disabilities.  The ReWalk™ exoskeleton allows an ambulation and rehabilitation alternative to wheelchair users, enabling people with lower limb disabilities, such as paraplegia, to stand and walk independently.

In 2012, Claire Lomas finished the 32nd Virgin London Marathon in 17 days using the ReWalk robotic suit and went on to light the Paralympic Cauldron in Trafalgar Square in front of Prime Minister David Cameron, Mayor Boris Johnson and Lord Sebastian Coe.

ReWalk Rehabilitation 2.0 Highlights:

  • Rapid Exchange: A new slider adjustment mechanism accelerates and simplifies the process of sizing for individual users with a new sizing scale and a simple “click” that indicates the alignment of joints.
  • Universal Sizing: The new model fits a wide range of heights in just one device. Clinicians can easily adjust the unit to fit users between 160cm -190cm in height.
  • Beginner Gait Mode: Newly enhanced software has improved the learning process to support and transition new users as they learn to take their first steps in the ReWalk.

“I am very excited to launch this new generation of exoskeleton technology. We have learned from the everyday use by clinicians and the experience of their patients and believe as a company it is essential we continue to enhance this technology to meet the needs of those working with it,” said Larry Jasinski, ARGO CEO. “The ReWalk Rehabilitation 2.0 offers an experience that is very close to natural walking and this new model will improve the learning curve to allow ReWalkers to quickly gain comfort as they begin to walk independently.”

ARGO currently offers two ReWalk models – the ReWalk Personal, currently available in Europe and pending FDA review in the US; and the ReWalk Rehabilitation which is now available in Europe, Israel and the United States. Both models are designed to provide a customised user experience with on-board computers and motion sensors that restore self-initiated walking without needing tethers or switches to begin movement. The ReWalk uses patented technology with motorised legs that power knee and hip movement. It controls movement using subtle changes in center of gravity, mimics natural gait and provides functional walking speed. A forward tilt of the upper body is sensed by the system, which triggers the first step. Repeated body shifting generates a sequence of steps, which allows natural and efficient walking.

“Training in the ReWalk has changed my life in a way I did not believe possible after I became paralysed,” said Sgt. Theresa Hannigan, U.S. Army Retired and ReWalk user. “When I use the ReWalk I regain my independence; I have been able to walk a 1 mile road race, and stand up hug my friends and family.”