As part of the National Robotics Initiative (NRI), the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is providing $2.2 million for development of three innovative co-robots, which are robotic devices designed to work cooperatively with humans. Two of the devices in development are aimed at improving quality of life for individuals affected by disabilities.
Of the three projects, the device referred to in an NIH media release dubbed the “Smart Walker” will be of importance to the rehabilitation industry. This project is led by Xiangrong Shen, PhD, associate professor, department of mechanical engineering, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, and strives to provide a product that will increase mobility for the elderly. The robot is designed to have four legs and operate in two modes. Sources: Rehab Management, Healio O&P News, Senior Jounal, CNB News, Kansas City Infozone, Imperial Valley News, Federal Telemedicine News