Robotic exoskeleton allows quadriplegics to catch objects

A neuro-robotic exoskeleton, which is worn on the hand and was created by European scientists, has allowed for the first time in six quadriplegics to get caught and…
handle objects such as cutlery to eat or to sign documents with a pen.
The paralyzed patients suffering from paraplegia, and by then, unable to do anything without help, are able to operate autonomously thanks to the exoskeleton, which is controlled by an electronic headset that is worn on the head, and is charged by the battery of a computer tablet. The system is reliable and practical, without causing discomfort during use.
From quadriplegia -loss of movement in upper and lower limbs – suffering about one in 10,000 people in the world.
For there to be a partial restoration of mobility of the patients, the scientists until today have tried the implantation of a device (interface) brain-machine, which “translate” the signals from the brain to the paralyzed people in commands to an external robot. However, the implantation surgery is an invasive procedure that involves risks.
The new system does not require any implantation in the brain, the patient must wear a headset on his head and the exoskeleton on the arm and the hand. The system “reads” the electrical activity of the brain and the eye movements of the patient and “translating” them into commands for the exoskeleton, which moves the hand in the desired way, almost restoring the normal movement.
The patient gets used to using the system within ten minutes at the most. In addition, you can use it at home and not just some clinic. The system also adapts to the wheelchair so the patient can move in the space with the exoskeleton.
The researchers from Germany, Italy and Spain, headed by the Σούριο Σοεκαντάρ of the University of Tibegen and the University Hospital of the German city, who made the relevant publication in the journal robotics Science Robotics”, have declared that they will proceed to larger clinical trials.
“In a period of two years about systems such as this are commercially available, although it will take a few more years, until they become really smart,” said Σοεακαντάρ.

Source