Science fiction reflects reality, exoskeleton technology helps disabled athlete Kevin Piette light the cauldron at the Paris Olympics

Para-athlete Kevin Piette, who lost the use of his legs in a car accident 11 years ago, carries the Olympic torch using a Wandercraft exoskeleton.

Founded in 2012, Paris-based Wandercraft develops medical and personal exoskeletons. Their Atalante X model aids mobility in rehabilitation centres globally.

Self-Balancing Robotics

“Self-balancing robotics is one of robotics' toughest challenges,” says a Wandercraft spokesperson. “We tackled it with a self-balancing humanoid for people who can't move their legs.”

Piette, despite not qualifying for the Paralympics, participates in the Olympic ceremony. As the number 10 wheelchair tennis player in France, he walks in the torch relay, thanks to the Olympic Committee's support.

Everyday Use Exoskeleton

Wandercraft's personal exoskeleton aims for all-day use. The prototype lasts about four hours, handling motions like sitting, standing, and side-stepping. The goal is to enable users to wear it for a full workday.

Science Fiction to Reality

Once the stuff of movies like “Iron Man” and “Elysium,” Wandercraft's exoskeletons, developed with CalTech, are now a reality. “The goal is to get people out of wheelchairs,” says Caltech Professor Aaron Ames. Even clinical locomotion offers health benefits.

The exoskeletons operate based on algorithms and torso movements. "Think of it as a joystick," Ames explains. A conventional joystick also provides directional control.

Collaboration and Innovation

Caltech’s Robotic Assisted Mobility (RoAM) initiative, led by Ames, collaborates with Wandercraft to test new ideas. “We can do cutting-edge stuff at Caltech and try it on Wandercraft’s exoskeleton,” says Ames.

Accessibility and Costs

Exoskeletons are expensive, but new US policies help offset costs. Medicare’s final ruling supports reimbursement. Recently, Keontae Clark in San Francisco received an exoskeleton through her health insurance, costing $100,000.