Reclaiming Freedom and Connection
Caroline Laubach’s experience as a test pilot for Wandercraft’s innovative exoskeleton goes beyond mere technology. As a survivor of a spinal stroke and a full-time wheelchair user, Laubach embodies the transformative potential of this AI-powered device. Her journey emphasizes the profound impact that such advancements can have on the lives of wheelchair users.
“When I wear the exoskeleton, I experience a sense of freedom that I often lack in my daily life,” Laubach shares. “It allows me to engage with others at eye level, eliminating the constant need to look up.” This newfound visibility fosters deeper connections, making daily interactions more inclusive and enriching.
Wandercraft’s Vision and Origins
Wandercraft’s mission is rooted in personal experiences. Co-founder Nicolas Simon was inspired by family members dealing with mobility challenges due to Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a genetic disorder. Driven by a desire to assist his brother and others facing similar struggles, Simon, along with Matthieu Masselin and Jean-Louis Constanza, established Wandercraft in 2012 with the goal of enhancing mobility for the estimated 80 million wheelchair users globally.
Advancements in Exoskeleton Technology
The introduction of Wandercraft’s first exoskeleton, Atalante X, has already made significant strides in over 100 clinics and research centers worldwide. Approved by the FDA and authorized in Europe, this device has enabled patients to take over a million steps monthly as part of their rehabilitation, helping many regain mobility and independence.
However, Wandercraft aims to take mobility a step further. The new Personal Exoskeleton prototype, currently undergoing clinical trials in New York and New Jersey, is designed for everyday use—whether at home, work, or out in the community. Leveraging NVIDIA AI, the exoskeleton adapts smoothly to each user’s movements, providing stable walking on various surfaces. Users can control the device with a joystick, making it accessible to individuals with diverse abilities.
Innovative Partnerships and Future Potential
A significant factor in Wandercraft’s progress is its collaboration with NVIDIA. Utilizing NVIDIA Isaac Sim, a powerful simulation tool, the team can improve the exoskeleton in virtual settings before real-world testing. Moreover, they are exploring NVIDIA’s healthcare robotics and edge computing platforms to enhance the device’s responsiveness and intelligence.
This advanced technology aims to ensure the exoskeleton can keep pace with daily life, enabling users to walk at a normal speed, navigate streets, and even tackle stairs. As Simon highlights, “It’s crucial for the exoskeleton to be fast enough for real-world application. By integrating NVIDIA AI, we can empower users to walk at a typical pace and manage everyday challenges.”
The Walk in New York Center: A Hub for Rehabilitation
Wandercraft’s commitment to improving lives transcends mere technology development. The company has inaugurated “Walk in New York by Wandercraft,” a state-of-the-art physical therapy center located at 345 Park Avenue South. This facility represents a pioneering effort in the U.S., offering a partnership between Wandercraft and licensed physical therapists to provide comprehensive rehabilitation for individuals with neurological conditions.
At Walk in New York, the ethos is that movement is medicine. The center offers personalized assessments with licensed therapists, hands-free walking sessions using the Atalante X exoskeleton, and extensive neurorehabilitation services. Patients can experience the act of walking again in a safe, supportive environment, regardless of their physical abilities. Each therapy plan is customized, with objective tracking to ensure optimal outcomes.
The center also features advanced technologies like virtual reality systems for real-time feedback, mirror therapy to aid motor recovery, and immersive environments to make rehabilitation more engaging.
Looking Ahead: Accessibility and Community Engagement
Wandercraft is actively pursuing FDA approval for its Personal Exoskeleton, with aspirations to make this life-changing technology accessible to millions of wheelchair users in the U.S. and beyond. The company is also recruiting participants for clinical trials and is dedicated to ensuring Medicare coverage in the future.
If you are an adult aged 18 or older with a spinal cord injury at or above the T6 vertebra, you may qualify for the clinical trial. Participants will need a physically capable companion during sessions, and Wandercraft is establishing a volunteer network to help connect trial participants with companions. Both patients and companions should be proficient in English or have access to a translator.
A New Perspective on Mobility and Independence
Despite significant technological progress, tens of millions still rely on wheelchairs. Wandercraft’s Personal Exoskeleton, informed by the experiences of individuals like Laubach, presents a promising avenue for enhancing freedom, independence, and a renewed sense of possibility.
Laubach’s journey exemplifies the power of technology designed with real users in mind. Wandercraft’s Personal Exoskeleton is not merely a robotic device; it symbolizes the potential for individuals to stand tall, interact with others, and live life on their own terms. Each step taken with this groundbreaking device brings us closer to a future where mobility is accessible to all.
As we look forward to the advancements in AI-driven wearable robotics, we invite you to share your thoughts on how these innovations could reshape the narrative around disability and independence.