Welcome to the Exoskeletons and Wearable Robotics podcast, a discussion on real-life practical human augmentation. We do our best to cut through the science fiction and marketing hype to get to the bottom of what exoskeleton technology can and can’t do for you or your family. We are very fortunate to have our first guest on the podcast. George Woodland is one of these super rare individuals with years of deployment experience who has also studied biomedical engineering. He has hands-on expertise maintaining equipment in the field in forward operating bases and bioengineering knowledge.
Join us in Episode 9 of the podcast as George guides me and Prof. Tom Sugar (Wearable Robotics Association) through the reality of what happens to field equipment, what is needed, how the theater of war is changing, and some opportunities for how and where to introduce exoskeletons that can significantly reduce non-combat related injuries for service members. Special thanks to our guest, George Woodland, for sharing his 13 years of experience with the Canadian Armed Forces!
Special thanks to our Patreon supporters for encouraging this awareness-raising effort. I hope we can increase the visibility of this incredible technology one step at a time!
AI Generated Summary:
In Episode 9 of the Exoskeletons and Wearable Robotics Podcast, host Bobby Marinov (ExR) is joined by Professor Tom Sugar(WearRA) and special guest George Woodland. George, a former Canadian Armed Forces soldier with 13 years of field experience, three years of biomedical engineering studies, and additional industry experience, provides unique insights into the intersection of military fieldwork and exoskeleton technology.
Key Discussion Points:
Guest Introduction:George shares his military background, including working on Leopard tanks and transitioning to biomedical technologies after a serious injury ended his active service.
Military Adoption of Exoskeletons:Challenges in introducing new technology like exoskeletons into the military without rushing adoption, using examples such as the M14 and M16 rifles.
Exoskeletons have potential applications in logistics (e.g., loading/unloading planes and maintaining heavy vehicles) and maintenance (e.g., replacing heavy tank components).
Field Conditions and Equipment Challenges:George describes soldiers’ harsh conditions, including temperature extremes, uneven terrain, and heavy manual labor.
Discuss the potential of tethered vs. untethered exoskeletons and integrating exoskeletons with existing military equipment like armored vehicles.
Drones, Automation, and Increased Maintenance Needs:George highlights how the growing use of drones and automated systems in military operations will lead to increased maintenance requirements. With fewer crew members available on advanced systems like drone tanks, exoskeletons could bridge the gap by enhancing the physical capabilities of maintenance personnel.
Discussions include using exoskeletons to handle heavy repairs on autonomous vehicles and maintain delicate systems in harsh field conditions.
Innovative Applications:Exoskeletons in field hospitals could be used to assist with moving patients and equipment in austere conditions.
Extending exoskeleton use to support soldiers with injuries or disabilities, potentially returning them to logistics roles.
Barriers to Adoption:The importance of simplicity in exoskeleton design for military personnel who may lack time for extensive training.
Concerns about durability, maintenance, and cost-effectiveness in combat scenarios.
Dual-Use Technology:Exploration of how military applications for exoskeletons can drive broader adoption in civilian and industrial sectors.
The potential for occupational exoskeletons to transition between medical, military, and logistical uses.
Future Directions:Addressing thermal, infrared, and ergonomic considerations to make exoskeletons more practical for soldiers.
There is a need for strategic communication to educate military personnel and decision-makers about exoskeleton technology.
Final Thoughts:
George emphasizes the need for exoskeleton technology to develop through logistics and maintenance applications before being adopted on the front lines. He advocates for practical, user-friendly designs that can withstand the demands of military use. The episode concludes with a call to support the podcast and related initiatives to advance exoskeleton technology and educate the community. In summary, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the potential and challenges of exoskeletons in military applications, enriched by George’s firsthand experience and technical knowledge.
As always, the views expressed in this podcast are not meant to represent those of any governments or organizations. Thank you for tuning in!