It took 7 years and $10 million but the Rex exoskeleton which is capable of supporting the full weight of a person and moving him or her around in a familiar bipedal fashion is finally ready. Operated using a joystick and control pad, it is simple enough for handicapped users to self-transfer in and out of, effectively making their dream of walking a reality.
It's about to go on sale in New Zealand, its home country this year, with an international launch following in 2011. But such a sophisticated equipment does not come cheap. Estimated initial asking price of $150,000 (US) is high but then how do you value the chance to walk?
So I guess the million dollar question is how do you make it more accessible to the public instead of limiting it to the few with the financial means.
It's about to go on sale in New Zealand, its home country this year, with an international launch following in 2011. But such a sophisticated equipment does not come cheap. Estimated initial asking price of $150,000 (US) is high but then how do you value the chance to walk?
So I guess the million dollar question is how do you make it more accessible to the public instead of limiting it to the few with the financial means.
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