National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) develops affordable exoskeleton

The University Faculty of Engineering of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) has developed an exoskeleton that is four times cheaper than previous versions for people with spinal cord injuries, which allows the patient to stand, sit, and walk upstairs. This is an external device created with lightweight aluminum and costs around EUR 10,000-15,000. Moreover, this technology allows for slopes of 10-20 degrees and achieves a speed of 12-15 steps per minute. The device weighs 25 kilograms and is aimed at people, who are 1.60-1.80 meters tall and weigh up to 80 kilograms. It needs a battery for functioning that allows a range of two hours and has two poles, through a graphical interface; the user can select the type of prerecorded program that one wants to move. The device can be used only when recommended by a specialist doctor. However, it may also be used for rehabilitation purposes in future.