WearRA and ExR are thrilled to release yet another episode of the Exoskeletons and Wearable Robotics podcast. This time, we touch upon both military exoskeletons and then transition to medical, specifically pediatric walking-assist ones. We have as guests the leaders of Bionic Power, one of the first exoskeleton companies founded back in 2007. In this episode, we explore their journey, especially their pivot to pediatric robotics and much, much more!

YouTube Version:

00:00 – Welcome & Introductions Bobby Marinov and Dr. Tom Sugar introduce the episode and guests: Gualtiero, CEO, and Rob Nathan, Director of Operations at Bionic Power. 01:20 – From Military to Medical How Bionic Power began in 2007 developing energy-harvesting knee exoskeletons for soldiers, and later pivoted to medical rehabilitation for children with cerebral palsy. 04:40 – Understanding Crouch Gait Rob Nathan explains crouch gait and how the company’s device helps children fully extend their knees and walk with less fatigue. 07:00 – Light, Smart, and Personalized Design Why low-torque, lightweight actuation combined with custom orthotic integration is key to making the device safe, comfortable, and long-lasting. 12:30 – Life-Changing Results: Catalina’s Story Real-world success story: a young girl who moved from a wheelchair to walking and dancing thanks to Bionic Power’s Agilik system. 16:30 – Intelligent Control & Safety Discussion on software-controlled torque and position, preventing hyperextension, and supporting both unilateral and bilateral users. 19:00 – Regenerative & Stair-Climbing Capabilities New modes allow walking down ramps and stairs, even recharging the battery while descending. 22:00 – Commercialization & Insurance Coverage How patients access the device through certified orthotists, and details on U.S. insurance reimbursement and distribution partnerships. 29:45 – Impact on Pediatric Mobility Why early mobility intervention matters: improved endurance, gait mechanics, and potential lifelong benefits for children. 35:00 – Durability & Closing Thoughts Tested for millions of walking cycles, the system shows military-grade durability. The episode closes with optimism about future clinical studies.

Learn more: Bionic Power: https://bionic-power.com

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Remember to like and subscribe! You can find a summary of the full transcript and hints on how you can support this effort on the Exoskeleton Report website.