Honda Walking Assist Device Begins Clinical Research Study In Chicago

Honda has announced that its Walking Assist Device has begun a clinical research trial in the US. The trial is underway in Chicago at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. During the trial, physical therapists and other researchers will be performing a scientific assessment of the Honda Walking Assist Device or Stride Management Device.

This will be the first large scale clinical research study on the Honda device in the US. Honda's Walking Assist Device is designed to be worn over clothing. It looks like a bulky belt and hides compact motors inside that are driven by battery power. The rigid frame allows the device to help lit the legs of the user.

Honda designed the device to help people walk that have limited or reduced mobility due to injury, illness, or other causes. The Honda Walking Assist Device is expected to help stroke victims regain their mobility. The Walking Assist Device has a control computer inside the housing that uses data gathered from hip angle sensors while walking.

The data that is gathered allows the internal computer to help improve the timing of each leg lifting from the ground and extending forward or backward to give the user a longer stride, making walking easier. The device attaches to the body using belts allowing it to be worn by people of varied body size. The battery inside the device is good for over an hour of use per charge and the entire Walking Assist Device weighs 6 pounds. The Honda Walking Assist Device went into broad hospital trials in Japan in May.

SOURCE: Honda