Finally, our first end-user of mobility technology. Meet Melissa DiVierti, aka “BLUE EYE QUEEN,” as she joins Dr. Tom Suggar, aka “Sugar Daddy Jetpack Tommy,” and me, Bobby Marinov, aka “Therion,” as we discuss how we can make exoskeleton technology look more colorful and accessible. It is no secret that the world of wearables and wearable robotics is dominated by men, with only a handful of the 100+ startups being led by women. That has translated into the design aesthetics, creating metal and wires and walking robocops, which can be most unappealing to the general population. This and much more on Episode 20 of the Exoskeletons and Wearable Robotics podcast:

Main Topics: 00:00 Introductions 01:40 How did you discover this medical technology and the Shirley Ryan Rehabilitation Center? 05:12 Using the Biomotum device at the Shirly Ryan AbilitiyLab 11:05 Did the exoskeleton help you walk? 15:31 The perfect suit for sacral agenesis. 20:02 Home use availability? 22:08Adding colors and visual customization to wearables. 28:48 What else do exoskeletons need? 37:54 We need more ladies working on and showcasing exo technology! 40:58Combining prosthetics/orthotics with exoskeletons. 47:52We need everyone, especially non-engineers with distinct points of view. 52:35 Where to follow along with Blue Eye Queen! 56:34 Call to action: have exos on real people in real scenarios who don’t already know you.

Catch the episode on YouTube or any of these platforms: