An Engineered Exoskeleton Huilt to Alleviate the Physical Demands of Elderly Caregiving

While the majority of German Bionic’s powered exosuits are created to aid workers in industrial settings, the company’s newest contraption is focused on providing assistance to healthcare providers in hospital environments, as well as in elderly care and rehabilitation units.

After its debut at VivaTech 2023 in Paris in June, where it was introduced to “assist caregivers in their daily tasks,” German Bionic has officially released the Apogee+ powered exoskeleton in the North American market.

A “Personal Lifting Aid” for Caregivers

It is marketed as a “personal lifting aid” for nurses, caregivers, and healthcare practitioners who must handle patients, elderly residents, or individuals undergoing physical therapy. This device allows them to do so without putting themselves at risk of strain or injury or resorting to intricate support tools like harnesses and cranes.

While detailed specifications have not been disclosed, the exoskeleton is said to provide up to 66 pounds (30 kilograms) of back support for each lift. Additionally, it offers assistance for walking and comes with adjustable leg straps and vest sizes to accommodate various user dimensions. Notably, it includes hand grips positioned at the back of the monocoque frame, providing patients with something to grasp onto during a lifting procedure.

IP54 Waterproof Rating

The Apogee+ boasts an IP54 waterproof rating, eliminating the need for caregivers to be concerned about shielding or safeguarding the device during patient bathing or showering. This design is said to offer “reduced surface area for the accumulation of bacteria and germs,” simplifying the process of disinfecting the device.

Although not explicitly mentioned in the press materials, it’s probable that the system utilizes the same commercially available battery pack as the company’s sixth-generation Apogee power suit, designed for industrial use, which offers approximately four to five hours of usage on a single charge. Moreover, the Plus model is fully connected, granting users and administrators access to real-time metrics.

German Bionic’s CEO on the Apogee+

German Bionic’s founder and CEO, Armin G. Schmidt, stated, “With its comprehensive array of features, our new Apogee+ powered exosuit is intended to alleviate the highly demanding working conditions in these crucial fields, enhancing job safety and sustainability. Building on our early success in the European market, we are confident that our intelligent exosuits will soon become an indispensable aspect of daily operations in healthcare clinics and nursing homes here in the United States.”

The Apogee+ is now available for purchase, starting at $9,990, and offers a Robotics-as-a-Service leasing option at $299 per month. German Bionic is set to showcase and demonstrate this technology at the MEDICA tradeshow in Düsseldorf from November 13 to 16.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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