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Physiologists have come up with an exoskeleton for walking

Geektimes, SLY_G based on The Verge: This mechanical exoskeleton makes walking more efficient

American physiologists from the University of North Carolina have come up with a device that facilitates walking. A small exoskeleton is worn on the legs and does not require power sources. The device saves up to 7% of the energy that the body spends when walking. At the same time, the device itself weighs 300-500 grams, which is comparable to the weight of ordinary shoes – therefore, the advantage in energy is not canceled by carrying weights.

Scientists have been working on similar devices for a long time, which should help both people who have health problems and those who have to walk a lot – military, rescuers, etc. In 2013, another group of researchers demonstrated a similar device. Their device saved about 6% of walking energy – but required an external power source, because it worked with compressed air.

 Work on the device took about five years, and became possible only thanks to the achievements of modern science. For example, the main details about the work of the calf muscle and Achilles tendon became known only in the 2000s, when scientists were able to use ultrasound to study the work of these muscles and ligaments in motion.

The system duplicates the movements and sprains of the calf muscle and Achilles tendon, accumulating energy in the spring when the leg moves. Then the spring contracts, helping the muscles to bend the foot, thereby assisting with walking.

The testers note that it is not difficult to use the device and get used to it. After about 20 minutes, the body completely adjusts to the device, and you just forget about it. But immediately after removal, it feels as if part of the strength disappears from the legs, and they hold the walker worse.

While the device is not ready for wide sale – in particular, the prototype works only at certain speeds. If you try to run with him, he will break down. To create a universal exoskeleton, you will have to use modern materials in some way. But even now, researchers claim that the final cost of the device will not exceed $ 1,000.

Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru08.04.2015