HAL 5
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
HAL, or Hybrid Assistive Limb, is an artificial powered exoskeleton suit currently in development by Tsukuba University of Japan, and still slated for production in the near future, as of October 2006, pending field testing. [1] There are currently two prototypes, HAL 3 which has bulkier servo-motors and only has the leg function, and HAL 5, which is a full-body exoskeleton for arms, legs, and torso. HAL 5 is currently capable of allowing the operator to lift and carry about five times as much weight as they could lift and carry unaided.
It operates by sensing weak electrical impulses from muscles via electrodes on the operator's skin and sending them to the onboard computer which in turn analyzes them and activates corresponding servos of the suit, mimicking the wearer's motions. The whole suit is powered by a 100-volt battery attached to the operator's waist.
[edit] Uses
According to its homepage, HAL is being designed to assist the disabled and elderly in their daily tasks, or any physically demanding job such as disaster rescue or construction. HAL is mainly used by disabled patients in hospitals to assist them in moving from one bed to another, and can be modified so that patients can use it for rehabilitation.
It is intended to be distributed through leasing for the introductory price of 1,500,000 Japanese Yen with additional yearly charges for maintenance. This is about 15,000 American USD.
[edit] References
- ^ Paralysed man to scale Alpine peak with aid of robotic legs", Julian Ryall, The Scotsman, 4 April 2006. Retrieved 30 June 2006
