Rip the air at the speed of sound and rush towards the horizon, arms outstretched at the seams in your iron suit. Be anywhere in the blink of an eye globe without having to sit in traffic jams. Flying without wings without being on board an airplane or something stronger. Let someone who didn’t want to be in Tony Stark’s shoes at his finest moments (in the Iron Man suit, of course) throw a stone at me. Partially, these dreams will be able to be realized by an exoskeleton - a device that can increase a person’s abilities (mostly physical, muscular strength) due to the external frame. We will tell you in this material what this device is, what developments already exist and how technologies will develop in the future.

From elastiped to " iron man»

Science and technology is, without exaggeration, the fiercest race of ingenuity between man and nature. Throughout his entire history, man has been trying to remake the world around him to suit his needs. Somewhere he succeeds, often not without harm to nature. You have to look at her somewhere. And while most invertebrates have an external skeleton in one form or another, humans do not. But there were no wings?

Nowadays, an exoskeleton means a mechanical suit or part of it up to 2–2.5 meters in height. Next come "mobile suits", mechs and other giant humanoid robots.

Like many other things in our lives, exoskeletons are gradually crossing the border between wild dreams and daily life. Originally just ideas, concepts, myths and legends of science fiction, today new versions of exoskeletons appear almost every week.

The first inventor of the exoskeleton is considered to be the Russian “mechanical engineer” Nikolai Ferdinandovich Yagn, who registered a number of patents on this topic back in the 1890s. He lived in America, where, in fact, he patented his miracles, showed them at exhibitions, and upon returning to native land reinvented. His exoskeleton was supposed to make walking, running and jumping easier for the soldier in the first place. Even then, the Russian genius foresaw the potential military power of such devices.

NICHOLAY
Ferdinandovich YAGN

In addition to the exoskeleton, Yagn developed cooling curtains, a hydraulic motor, a swinging propeller, a samovar-sterilizer and other devices

Hardiman

Let's not deny that science fiction writers made a gigantic and immense contribution to the development of exoskeletons. In 1959, after Robert Heinlein’s acclaimed novel “Starship Troopers,” it became clear to everyone that external frame suits were the future of military operations and more. And away we go.

The first exoskeleton was created by General Electric with support from the US Department of Defense in the 1960s. Hardiman weighed 680 kilograms and could lift loads weighing up to 110 kilograms. With all the gigantic ambitions - and they wanted to use it under water, and in space, and to carry warheads, and nuclear rods - it showed itself not in the best possible way. They conveniently forgot about him.

a “pedomotor” device vaguely reminiscent of exoskeletons by inventor Leslie S. Kelly, developed in 1917

Nine years later, Miomir Vukobratovic from Belgrade, Yugoslavia, showed the first powered walking exoskeleton, the purpose of which was to give people with paraplegia the ability to walk. The device was based on a pneumatic drive. Soviet scientists from the Central Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedics named after N. N. Priorov took the first initiatives to develop exoskeletons together with Yugoslav colleagues based on the work of Vukobratovich. But with the beginning of perestroika, the projects were closed, and there is no information about the secret underground development of exoskeletons. But everything was fine with space exploration.

At different times in different countries craftsmen tried to make exoskeletons for a wide variety of purposes, but due to a variety of obstacles (which we will talk about later), they succeeded extremely poorly. Energy shortages, slow growth scientific and technological progress, the development of materials science and other related sciences, as well as the development of computer computing and cybernetics, the wave of which only rose about 30 years ago - all this slowed down the development of exoskeletons. Without any doubt, this sophisticated technologies that people have yet to master.

Problems with exoskeletons

There are not many materials on this planet from which you can make a rigid frame and which will not aggravate the matter with their weight. In any case, there were not many of them, but taking into account space flights, military developments, the development of materials science, nanotechnology and a dozen or so other interesting areas, humanity is gradually taking one barrier after another. IN beginning of XXI century, interest in exoskeletons flared up with remarkable force and continues to burn to this day. But first, let's talk about the main problems faced by exoskeleton creators.

If we decompose a hypothetical exoskeleton into its components, we will have: a power source, a mechanical skeleton and software. And if everything seems to be clear with the last two points and there are almost no problems left, then the power supply is a serious problem. Having a normal power source, engineers could not only create an exoskeleton, but also combine it with a spacesuit and a jetpack. The result would probably be an Iron Man suit, but the new Tony Stark has not yet appeared.

Any of the compact power sources today can provide the exoskeleton with only a few hours battery life. Next is the dependence on the wire. For non-rechargeable and batteries There are some limitations, such as the need for replacement or slow charging, respectively. Engines internal combustion should be too reliable, but not particularly compact. In addition, in the latter case, an additional cooling system will be required, and the internal combustion engine itself is difficult to configure to instantly release a large amount of energy. Electrochemical fuel cells can be refueled quickly liquid fuel(for example, methanol) and give the necessary and immediate release of energy, but operate at extremely high temperatures. 600 degrees Celsius is a relatively low temperature for such a power source. With it, the “iron man” will turn into a hot dog.

Oddly enough, the most possible option The solution to the fuel issue for exoskeletons of the future may be the most impossible: wireless energy transfer. It could solve a lot of issues, because it can be transmitted from an arbitrarily large reactor (including a nuclear one). But how? The question is open.

The first exoskeletons were made from aluminum and steel, which were inexpensive and easy to use. But steel is too heavy, and the exoskeleton must also work to lift its own weight. Accordingly, if the suit is heavy, its effectiveness will decrease. Aluminum alloys quite light, but accumulate fatigue, which means they are not particularly suitable for high loads. Engineers are looking for lightweight, strong materials like titanium or carbon fiber. They will inevitably be expensive, but will provide the effectiveness of the exoskeleton.

Drives pose a particular problem. Standard hydraulic cylinders are powerful enough to handle high accuracy, but heavy and require a bunch of hoses and tubes. Pneumatics, on the other hand, are too unpredictable in terms of handling movements, since the compressed gas springs and the reaction forces will push the actuators.

However, new servos are being developed for electronically, which will use magnets and provide responsive movements while consuming minimal energy and being small. You can compare this to the transition from steam locomotives to trains. Let us also note the flexibility that the joints should have, but here the problems of exoskeletons can be solved by the developers of spacesuits. They will also help you figure out how to adapt the suit to the size of the wearer.

Control

A particular challenge when creating an exoskeleton is the management and regulation of excessive and unwanted movements. You can’t just go and make an exoskeleton with the same reaction speed for each member. Such a mechanism may be too fast for the user, but making it too slow is ineffective. On the other hand, you cannot rely on the user and trust the sensors to read intentions from body movements: desynchronization of the movements of the user and the suit will lead to injury. It is necessary to limit both acting parties. Engineers are scratching their heads over the solution to this issue. In addition, unintentional or unwanted movement must be detected in advance so that an accidental sneeze or cough does not lead to an ambulance being called.

Exoskeletons and the future

In 2010, Sarcos and Raytheon, together with the US Department of Defense, showed the XOS 2 combat exoskeleton. The first prototype came out two years earlier, but did not cause a stir. But XOS 2 turned out to be so cool that Time magazine included exoskeletons in its list of the top five military innovations of the year. Since then, the world's leading engineers have been racking their brains to create exoskeletons that can provide an advantage on the battlefield. And outside it too.

What do we have today?

This exoskeleton was introduced in 2011 and was intended for people with disabilities. In January 2013, an updated version, ReWalk Rehabilitation, was released, and already in June 2014, the FDA approved the use of the exoskeleton in public and at home, thereby opening the way for it commercially. The system weighs about 23.3 kilograms, runs on Windows and has three modes: walk, sit and stand. Cost: from 70 to 85 thousand dollars.

A series of these military exoskeletons is in active development (XOS 3 is next). Weighs about 80 kilograms and allows the owner to easily lift 90 extra kilograms. The latest models of the suit are so flexible that they allow you to play with the ball. As the manufacturers note, one XOS can replace three soldiers. Perhaps the third generation of the exoskeleton will be closer to what we see on the screens of science fiction films recent years. Alas, while he is tied to external source nutrition.

Human Universal Load Carrier - creation famous company Lockheed Martin in collaboration with Berkeley Bionics. This exoskeleton is also intended for the military. The basis is hydraulics and lithium-polymer batteries. By correctly loading the outer frame, the user can use it to carry up to 140 kilograms of excess cargo. It is expected that soldiers will be able to use HULC a la "me and my friend truck" for 72 hours. Development is in full swing, so it is not surprising that HULC may be the first to enter service with the United States.

ExoHiker, ExoClimber and eLEGS (Ekso)

The prototypes are again Berkeley Bionics, designed to perform various tasks. The first is supposed to help travelers carry loads of up to 50 kilograms, was introduced in February 2005 and weighs about 10 kilograms. Given the small solar panel, can work for a very, very long time. The ExoClimber is a ten-kilogram addition to the ExoHiker that allows the wearer to jump and climb stairs. In 2010, Berkeley Bionics' developments resulted in eLEGS. This system is a full-fledged hydraulic exoskeleton that allows paralyzed people to walk and stand. In 2011, eLEGS was renamed Ekso. He weighs 20 kilograms and moves with maximum speed at 3.2 km/h and runs for 6 hours.

Another sensational exoskeleton from the Japanese robot manufacturer Cyberdyne. Its purpose is to provide the ability to walk for people with disabilities. There are two main variants: HAL-3 and HAL-5. Since its presentation in 2011, in less than a year, HAL has been adopted by more than 130 medical institutes across the country. However, testing will continue throughout 2014 and possibly 2015. In August 2013, HAL was given carte blanche to be used as a medical robot in Europe. Newest model The suit weighs about 10 kilograms.

Average cost of a medical exoskeleton -
90 thousand dollars.

In addition to serious full-body exoskeletons, limited exoskeletons designed to perform specific tasks are becoming increasingly popular. For example, in August of this year, the Chairless Chair ex-stool was shown, allowing you to sit while standing. Daewoo and Lockheed Martin independently demonstrated exoskeletons for shipyard workers. These devices allow workers to hold a load or tool weighing up to 30 kilograms without straining too much.

In Russia, the development of an exoskeleton called “ExoAtlet” is being developed by a team of scientists assembled at the Research Institute of Mechanics of Moscow State University. They continue the developments of Vukobratovich, begun in the USSR, which we mentioned above. The first working passive exoskeleton of this team was developed for emergency workers, firefighters and rescuers. With a weight of 12 kilograms, the design allows special effort carry up to 100 kilograms of cargo. The company plans to develop the ExoAtler-A power model, which will allow it to carry up to 200 kilograms, as well as a medical exoskeleton for the rehabilitation of people with disabilities.

What all these costumes have in common is that they are presented mostly as prototypes. This means they will improve. This means that field tests await them. This means there will be new models. This means they are the future. It’s too early to say that a working and useful exoskeleton can be bought on the black market. But a start has been made, and the development of this direction is confidently entering a broad mainstream. We're still a long way from Tony Stark's costume, but what's stopping us from enjoying spectacular films? Fans of spectacular showdowns involving exoskeletons will always have something to watch: “Aliens” (1986), “Iron Man” (2008), “Avatar” (2009), “District No. 9” (2009), “The Avengers” (2012), “ Elysium" (2013), "Edge of Tomorrow" (2014).

One thing is certain: exoskeletons will be everywhere in the future. They will help our astronauts explore Mars, build the first colonies and navigate space comfortably. They will be used in the military segment, since by default they give soldiers superhuman strength. They will give the opportunity to fully move to those who have lost it. The Iron Man suit will one day become real, just like everything you see around you.

"ExoAtlet"

I remember watching “Avatar” and being completely stunned by the exoskeletons shown there. Since then, I think that the future lies with these smart pieces of hardware. I also really want to apply my misguided little hands to this topic. Moreover, if you believe the analytical agency ABI Research, the global market for exoskeletons will be $1.8 billion by 2025. At this stage, not being a technician, engineer, architect or programmer, I am somewhat confused. I'm thinking about how to approach this topic. I would be glad if in the comments to the article people who would potentially be interested in similar projects participate.
There are currently four companies operating in the exoskeleton market. key companies: American Indego, Israeli ReWalk, Japanese Hybrid Assistive Limb and Ekso Bionics. The average cost of their products is from 75 to 120 thousand euros. In Russia, people also don’t sit without doing anything. For example, the Exoathlete company is actively working on medical exoskeletons.

The first exoskeleton was jointly developed by General Electric and the United States military in the 60s, and was called Hardiman. He could lift 110 kg with a lifting force of 4.5 kg. However, it was impractical due to its significant mass of 680 kg. The project was not successful. Any attempt to use a full exoskeleton resulted in intense uncontrolled movement, as a result of which it was never fully tested with a person inside. Further studies focused on one arm. Although she was supposed to lift 340 kg, her weight was 750 kg, which was twice the lifting force. Without getting all the components together to work practical use Hardiman's project was limited.

Next there will be a brief story about modern exoskeletons, which one way or another have reached the level of commercial implementation.

1. Independent walking. Does not require crutches or other means of stabilization, while leaving your hands free.
4. The exoskeleton for the legs allows you to: stand up\sit down, turn around, walk backwards, stand on one leg, walk up the stairs, walk on various, even inclined surfaces.
5. The device is very easy to control - all functions are activated using the joystick.
6. The device can be used all day thanks to the high-capacity removable battery.
7. With the REX's light weight of only 38 kilograms, it can support users weighing up to 100 kilograms and with a height of 1.42 to 1.93 meters.
8. Convenient system fixation does not cause any discomfort even if you wear it all day.
9. Also, when the user does not move, but just stands, REX does not waste battery power.
10. Access to buildings without ramps, thanks to the ability to walk up stairs without assistance.

HAL

HAL ( Hybrid Assistive Limb) – is a robotic exoskeleton with upper limbs. At the moment, two prototypes have been developed - HAL 3 (restoration of motor function of the legs) and HAL 5 (restoration of the arms, legs and torso). With HAL 5, the operator is able to lift and carry objects up to five times the maximum load under normal conditions.

Price in Russia: they promised for 243,600 rubles. The information could not be confirmed.

Features and specifications:

1. Device weight 12 kg.
3. The device can work from 60 to 90 minutes without recharging.
4. The exoskeleton is actively used in the rehabilitation of patients with pathology of motor functions of the lower extremities due to disorders of the central nervous system or as a consequence of neuromuscular diseases.

Rewalk

Rewalk is an exoskeleton that allows paraplegics to walk. Like an exoskeleton or a bioelectronic suit, the ReWalk device uses special sensors to detect deviations in a person's balance and then transforms them into impulses that normalize his movements, allowing the person to walk or stand. ReWalk is already available in Europe and is currently FDA approved in the United States.

Price in Russia: from 3.4 million rubles (on order).

Features and specifications:

1. Device weight 25 kg.
2. The exoskeleton can support up to 80 kg.
3. The device can work up to 180 minutes without recharging.
4. Battery charging time 5-8 hours
5. The exoskeleton is actively used in the rehabilitation of patients with pathology of motor functions of the lower extremities due to disorders of the central nervous system or as a consequence of neuromuscular diseases.

Exo bionic

Ekso GT is another exoskeleton project that helps people with severe musculoskeletal diseases regain the ability to move.

Price in Russia: from 7.5 million rubles (on order).

Features and specifications:

1. Device weight 21.4 kg.
2. The exoskeleton can support up to 100 kg.
3. Maximum hip width: 42cm;
4. Battery weight: 1.4 kg;
5. Dimensions (HxWxD): 0.5 x 1.6 x 0.4 m.
6. The exoskeleton is actively used in the rehabilitation of patients with pathology of motor functions of the lower extremities due to disorders of the central nervous system or as a consequence of neuromuscular diseases.

DM

DM ( Dream machine) – a hydraulic automated exoskeleton with a voice control system.

Price in Russia: 700,000 rubles.

Features and specifications:

1. Device weight 21 kg.
2. The exoskeleton must support the user's weight up to 100 kg.
3. The scope of application can be much wider than the rehabilitation of patients with pathology of motor functions of the lower extremities due to disorders of the central nervous system or as a consequence of neuromuscular diseases. This could be industry, construction, show business and the fashion industry.

Issues for discussion:

1. What is the optimal composition of a project team?
2. What is the cost of the project at the initial stage?
3. What are the pitfalls?
4. How do you see optimal time implementation of a project from idea to commercial launch?
5. Is it worth starting a project like this now and why?
6. What should be the geography and market expansion?
7. Are you personally ready to take part in such a project and if so, in what capacity?

ZY I would be grateful for constructive discussion, opinions, arguments and arguments for and against in the comments. I'm sure I'm not the only one thinking about this. Meanwhile, I am sure that the exoskeleton is new iPhone in world popular culture on the horizon of the next ten years.

Exoskeletons help the paralyzed walk, make hard work easy, protect soldiers on the battlefield and give us superpowers.

1. Activelink Power Loader

Named after the famous exoskeleton from the movie Aliens, the Activelink Power Loader is designed to lighten heavy manual labor owner, regardless of his age, gender and size, and aims to “create a society without restrictions” according to a press release from Activelink, a subsidiary of the famous Japanese electronics manufacturer Panasonic.

2. HAL

HAL (Hybrid Assistive Limb) is a mechanical exoskeleton from Japan developed by Cyberdine Inc. (yes, just like those guys who started it all in the Terminator), was created as a prototype in 1997, and is now used in Japanese hospitals to help seriously ill patients in their daily activities. It is also known that HAL was used by Japanese construction workers and even rescuers during the liquidation of the Fukushima-1 accident in 2011.

3. Ekso Bionics

14. Project “Walk Again”

The 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil was opened by Juliano Pinto, who was paralyzed from the waist down and was given the right to kick the World Cup ball first. This was made possible thanks to an exoskeleton connected directly to his brain, developed by Duke University. This event is part of the Walk Again project, created by a team of 150 people led by renowned neurologist and leading figure in the field of brain-machine interfaces, Dr. Miguel Nicolelis. Juliano Pinto simply thought that he wanted to kick the ball, the exoskeleton recorded brain activity and activated the mechanisms necessary for movement.

There are currently four key companies operating in the exoskeleton market: the American Indego, the Israeli ReWalk, the Japanese Hybrid Assistive Limb and Ekso Bionics. The average cost of their products is from 75 to 120 thousand euros. In Russia, people also don’t sit without doing anything. For example, the Exoathlete company is actively working on medical exoskeletons.

The first exoskeleton was jointly developed by General Electric and the United States military in the 60s, and was called Hardiman. He could lift 110 kg with a lifting force of 4.5 kg. However, it was impractical due to its significant mass of 680 kg. The project was not successful. Any attempt to use a full exoskeleton resulted in intense uncontrolled movement, as a result of which it was never fully tested with a person inside. Further studies focused on one arm. Although it was supposed to lift 340 kg, its weight was 750 kg, which was twice its lifting capacity. Without getting all the components together to work, the practical application of the Hardiman project was limited.

REX

Features and specifications:
1. Independent walking. Does not require crutches or other means of stabilization, while leaving your hands free.
4. The exoskeleton for the legs allows you to: stand up, sit down, turn around, walk backwards, stand on one leg, walk up the stairs, walk on various, even inclined surfaces.
5. The device is very easy to control - all functions are activated using the joystick.
6. The device can be used all day thanks to the high-capacity removable battery.
7. With the REX's light weight of only 38 kilograms, it can support users weighing up to 100 kilograms and with a height of 1.42 to 1.93 meters.
8. Convenient fixation system does not cause any discomfort even if you wear it all day.
9. Also, when the user does not move, but just stands, REX does not waste battery power.
10. Access to buildings without ramps, thanks to the ability to walk up stairs without assistance.