Parker Hannifin has developed a commercial version of Indego, a powered lower limb orthotic device also referred to as an exoskeleton.
This version of Indego would enable clinicians to conduct over ground, task specific gait training and potentially allow people with mobility impairments, such as spinal cord injury, a new level of independence.
The company recently demonstrated the device at the OT World trade show in Germany and has launched a new website. Indego has not yet been submitted for US FDA approval and is not available for sale.
Parker human motion and control business unit head Achilleas Dorotheou said that Indego is just one example of an entirely new category of wearable robotic devices that simulate natural human motion and hold the potential to offer new methods of therapy and greater independence for those with mobility impairments.
"Our engineering team has sought to significantly improve on the distinguishing features of Indego with this new version. We are excited to be progressing towards making this device available commercially in Europe in 2015 and in the United States in 2016," Dorotheou added.
Designed for personal use and as a therapy tool, Indego has numerous features that could potentially assist mobility impaired patients.
Indego has a modular design, self-aligning connections, and single hand adjustment strapping system. At just 26 lbs, Indego is light, and allows for quick set-up and transport. Indego uses postural position to operate and includes vibratory feedback, LED indicators and a wireless software interface.
Indego’s software app offers control over parameters such as stride length, step frequency and can archive data for each patient.
Parker is working to secure the regulatory approvals and CE marking for Indego in Europe, which are expected by the end of 2014, and is currently establishing partnerships with leading institutions in the region. Parker also aims at having Indego become the first powered lower limb orthotic device to receive FDA approval in the US.