News

Conor Walsh named one of MIT Technology Review’s ‘Innovators Under 35’

Conor Walsh named one of MIT Technology Review’s ‘Innovators Under 35’

August 18, 2015

Conor Walsh, Ph.D., assistant professor of mechanical and biomedical engineering at the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) and Core Faculty member at Harvard’s Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, has been recognized as one of the world’s top innovators under 35 by MIT Technology Review.

Exosuit soft exoskeleton update

Exosuit soft exoskeleton update

July 20, 2015

Results from a five-subject study showed a minimal effect on gait kinematics and an average best-case metabolic reduction of 6.4%, comparing suit worn unpowered versus powered, during loaded walking with 34.6 kg of carried mass including the exosuit and actuators (2.0 kg on both legs, 10.1 kg total).

10 technologies that will turn you into a superhero

10 technologies that will turn you into a superhero

July 20, 2015

The US military, as well as several private companies, are developing exosuits capable of augmenting human strength and physical performance. The Soft Exosuit being developed by Harvard University's Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering is looking to improve on the typically bulky design of exosuits by using soft textiles to create an exoskeleton comfortable enough to be worn under clothing.

Exosuits, startups, and VCs swarm around Harvard robotics meetup

Exosuits, startups, and VCs swarm around Harvard robotics meetup

May 26, 2015

One of the most popular stations at the meetup showed off DARPA-backed research from the Harvard Biodesign Lab, led by Conor Walsh. Several “soft exosuits” were on display—these are wearable-robot contraptions that could help boost people’s ability to walk for long distances, or help stroke patients regain strength in their arms or legs.

This is what a realistic Gundam suit will be like

This is what a realistic Gundam suit will be like

May 16, 2015
Instead of being made of firm, stiff materials that resemble leg braces or crutches, the soft suit is textile — it looks like long johns, is powered by tiny waist-mounted motors, and is peppered with small sensors that mimic normal leg movement. It reduces the energy it takes to walk, helping humans stockpile stamina like Energizer Bunnies.
8 new military technologies to make a stronger warrior

8 new military technologies to make a stronger warrior

March 31, 2015

Now the U.S. Army has a more comfortable, soft and practical exosuit in the works. Think more intricately engineered spandex to be worn under outer apparel. It would help provide support for muscles and joints, enabling soldiers to walk longer with less muscle fatigue and to minimize risk of injury when lifting something heavy.

Soft robotics expert Conor J. Walsh receives NSF CAREER Award

Soft robotics expert Conor J. Walsh receives NSF CAREER Award

March 25, 2015

“Traditional robotic systems don’t translate easily from industrial settings to medical and home applications,” Walsh said. “One of the main reasons is because rigid components pose safety risks for people. We are overcoming that hurdle by designing soft robotic systems made of elastomers, fibers and textiles.”

DARPA wants to bring light-weight hi-tech to dismounted infantry

DARPA wants to bring light-weight hi-tech to dismounted infantry

March 3, 2015

The exoskeleton remained bulky until late 2014 when a team from Harvard’s Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering developed a soft suit that mimics the body’s muscles and joints. These new exoskeleton trousers are easier to wear with the same capabilities of helping with heavy lifting and stimulating the nerves to allow those with mobility problems to move again.

US special forces a step closer to 'Iron Man suit'

US special forces a step closer to 'Iron Man suit'

January 22, 2015
DARPA, meanwhile, is developing a Soft Exosuit with the type of technology that potentially could be used inside the TALOS exoskeleton. The exosuit, being developed for DARPA by Harvard University’s Wyss Institute, is designed to be worn under clothing and includes lightweight robotics to assist the leg muscles and joints when in motion.

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