Slashdot Mirror
Honda Assists With "Next Steps" For Mankind
hedonisticaltruism writes "The CBC reports that Honda has just unveiled a new walking-assist device that enhances the walking motion rather than just providing transportation. The device braces and strengthens natural leg movements primarily in walking and crouching. They're looking to market this to rehabilitation cases, the handicapped and industries requiring repetitive crouching and walking movements such as factory work and delivery services."
"And here I've been [walking] on my own all this time like a sucker..."
Just last week, I had to order PT evals for two separate patients at the facility I nurse at. Both have Parkinsons, and are in the process of a steady decline with their ability to walk. One is getting her first walker, the other is going to get evaluated to see if there is any possible walker out there to keep him active. Something like this looks promising in the extreme. It would help when they freeze up. I wonder if they could set it to help the patient control their gate, elongating steps, to avoid shuffling.
Nothing hides evidence like a stew. -Gus Pratt
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8cLnf4Nrjs
Actually, in Japan, that is a GOOD thing.
Not only does it help you walk, but it crushes your balls as well.
A privilege usually reserved for the executive class.
It doesn't look like it has a large power source--how much of it's assist is actually mechanical vs. tricks with springs and stuff that exerts force in the correct direction without any computer/electrical help?
You almost certainly had a poorly fitted bicycle. I know what you are talking about, and felt it before. But my current bike fits me very well, and I can ride for hours comfortably.
I worked for about ten years fixing, what else, Japanese copy machines (yes I know, a low rung of the geek ladder; but, there I was). In truth I really enjoyed the work.
However, I eventually had to quit, like many others, because of my knees. the constant kneeling and crawling got to me and I was, simply, unable to do it any more.
Many of the people I worked with used electronic pain control devices, literally, wired into their bodies. Others consumed significant quantities of pain reducers. Most eventually leave the industry depriving it of many experienced workers. Me, I am back to working on my MBA so I can join the ranks of the undereducated unemployed.
It is possible that, with devices like this, people will be able to do jobs that require frequent, un-natural, movement and positions longer and in significantly greater comfort. Remember, we are leaving the, short lived, era of retirements and pensions. People will need to be able to work far longer into their lives.