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The ReWalk ™ System. Jessica Havas 11/20/2012. Problem Being Solved. The ReWalk™ is a bionic system which allows people suffering from paralysis in their lower extremity to stand, walk, or climb stairs. Paraplegia-
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The ReWalk™ System Jessica Havas 11/20/2012
Problem Being Solved • The ReWalk™ is a bionic system which allows people suffering from paralysis in their lower extremity to stand, walk, or climb stairs. • Paraplegia- • The loss of motor or sensory function in the legs and sometimes the trunk. • Most cases are caused from spinal cord injury • Approximately 11,000 spinal cord injuries each year in the US involve paraplegia
Components 6 Main Components: • Back pack- Contains a 28 volt lithium-ion battery, a back up battery, and an on board computer which contains a radio transmitter to communicate with the watch. • The watch-has buttons that allows the user to select whether they would like to sit, stand, ascend or descend stairs.
Components (Cont.) 3) Motor tilt sensor- Worn in a pelvic brace on the left side of the body. It propels the body forward by detecting shifts in balance and body weight. 4) Motor pods- Support body weight. 5) Foot plates- Places under the shoes. Help bear the weight of the user and the device itself. 6) Crutches- Give the user balance as they lean forward.
Advantages • Can give those who have been confined to a wheel chair a new sense of independence. • Provides a form of exercise that was not easily attainable from a wheel chair.
Limitations • Height and weight restrictions • The user can not be more than 100kg (220 pounds) and must be 63-75” tall. • Doctor approval is necessary before using the ReWalk™ , and then training is mandatory (can be around 6 months). • Must have functioning hands, arms, and shoulders • Be in good cardiovascular health • Have a healthy skeletal system
Availability • ReWalk™ Rehabilitation is a model designed for the clinical rehabilitation • has been in use for several years in centers across Europe, Israel, and the United States. • There is also a personal model (ReWalk™ Personal) • Launched in 2012 • Available throughout Europe. • Awaiting FDA approval in US. • Cost around 85,000 • Insurance coverage depends on the country.
References • "Paraplegia." Paraplegia. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 Nov. 2012. <http://www.spinal-injury.net/paraplegia.htm>. • "How Does the 'bionic' Marathon Suit Work?" BBC News. BBC, 05 Sept. 2012. Web. 18 Nov. 2012. <http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-18002728>. • "UCPN Offering Gait Training." ReWalk US RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 Nov. 2012. <http://rewalk.us/>. • "ReWalk â“ Personal." ReWalk. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 Nov. 2012. <http://rewalk.com/products/rewalk-personal/>. • "ReWalk Exoskeleton Going on Sale in January." ReWalk Exoskeleton Going on Sale in January. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 Nov. 2012. <http://medgadget.com/2010/12/rewalk_exoskeleton_going_on_sale_in_january.html>