American 3D printing firm 3D Systems has created a robotic suit that combines printed parts with motorised components to help paralysed patients stand and walk. The company claimed that its Ekso-Suit, which fits onto the user’s legs and back to support the natural walking motion, is the “first ever 3D printed hybrid Exoskeleton robotic suit”. The suit was custom-designed for a specific “test pilot” called Amanda Boxtel, who was paralysed from the waist-down after a skiing accident in 1992. “After years of dreaming about it, I am deeply grateful and thrilled to be making history by walking tall in the first ever 3D printed Ekso-Suit, made specifically for me,” said Boxtel. “This project represents the triumph of human creativity and technology that converged to restore my authentic functionality in a stunningly beautiful, fashionable and organic design,” she added. See pictures and video below :
