In company with a gasoline-powered jetpack, software that can detect sarcasm, and the iPad, Berkeley Bionics’ new exoskeleton, eLEGS, has been named as one of TIME magazine’s 50 Best Inventions of 2010. Published November 14, the list applauds the “biggest (and coolest) 50 breakthroughs in science, technology, and the arts” of the year.
Image courtesy of Berkeley Bionics
eLEGS captured a slot in the Health & Medicine category, along with other innovations that include a genetically-engineered mosquito that is immune to malaria, and the EyeWriter, a low-cost eye-tracking device that, when combined with open-source software, allows paralyzed artists to draw by using their eyes.
The Exoskeletal Lower Extremity Gait System (eLEGS) was designed to power paraplegics up and out of their wheelchairs, enabling them to stand up and walk. Launched in early October, eLEGS will undergo clinical testing in the spring and will be made available to select rehabilitation centers by next summer or fall.
For more information about eLEGS, visit ww.oandp.com/articles/news_2010-10-07_01.asp
