Toyota wants to help people with partial paralysis walk again using robotic leg braces. The Japanese automaker unveiled the Welwalk WW-1000 Wednesday in Tokyo, Tech Times reported.
[ Photo: Toyota ]
The automaker, which will open its North American headquarters in Plano this month, is committed to donating 100 of the devices to hospitals throughout Japan. Each device cost about $9,000 in U.S. dollars and there’s a $3,200 service fee per year.
The device has a mechanical frame that fits on the lower part of the leg. Patients who have had strokes or other medical problems can use the brace to relearn how to walk after being paralyzed on one side of their body. They walk on a special treadmill and are supported by a harness above so they won’t fall.
It’s meant to help patients recover faster and learn to walk again.
Toyota is working hard on artificial intelligence, robotics, connected cars and other innovative features to help with everyday life.
Fujita Health University partnered with Toyota to develop the Welwalk.
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