Italian Researchers Demonstrate 'Powerloader' Suit

Sockatume writes "Researchers in Italy have demonstrated a powered exoskeleton that can lift 50kg with each hand, as demonstrated in a video with the BBC. The 'body extender' from the Perceptual Robotics Laboratory of the Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna in Pisa has been developed for applications like disaster relief, and is just one of many strength-augmenting systems being developed for use in rescue, military, and medical applications. Neither the researchers nor the BBC make the comparison to the Powerloader in the movie Aliens — but come on, look at it."

Comments

Re:How long before these are everywhere?

[Anonymous Coward]

In Finland.... Not likely much, as the equilevant amount of Estonian workers (~20 required to lift 100kg) will be cheaper!

Just saying!

Re:only 50Kg?

[scarboni888]

Yeah well that was written before the Queen was thrown out of the airlock, okay?

Re:Lets see you do it then

[rmdingler]

Too much torque in the experimental stage could lead to a grisly accident like the wearer's arm being ripped out of socket.

These force multipliers seem like cool accessories, but the manned robot will likely present too many restrictions in efficacy.

Look for this to go the way of manned space missions, at least for the foreseeable future. Cameras and remote operation, walker drones if you will, seem much more practical.