CYBERDYNE’S CHALLENGE HYBRID ASSISTIVE LIMBSamantha Berger, Julia Lanzetta, Mike Sehi, Zhenyan Yang

Product Features

Source: Cyberdyne HAL Robot Suit and Cybernics research - DigInfo TV

Product Features

Cyborg-type robot that can expand and improve physical capability

Nerve signals are sent from the brain to the muscles via motoneuron, moving the musculoskeletal system as a consequence

Sensors are placed on the skin of the wearer which then read the signals and follow their movement

The power unit is controlled to move the joint united with the wearer's muscle movement, supporting the wearer's daily activities

HAL senses your intention and provides the relevant assistance at the proper joints

Large range of motion such that it can be worn in a sitting position

Rogers’ Five Forces

Relative advantage – high

Compatibility – mid

Complexity – high

Trialability – mid/low

Observability – high

This product can both assist the wearer with walking and minimize force on carried loads. Other competitors only do one of these tasks.

The device will fit most body types. It will become more accepted in places as robots become more prevalent in today’s society.

The product is designed to work off of the body’s natural signals. It will feel like an extension of the person rather than an add-on.

The product has a high price to buy. However, there are options to rent it on a daily basis.

The product is being extensively marketed and demoed at electronics shows and other events. When worn the suit is very easy to see. The unique design also makes it distinguishable from other products.

Consumer Needs

In addition to walking, the device will allow the previously immobile to sit up and turn with out help.

Since it can be worn in a sitting position, wheelchair users will also not have any issues with the HAL, allowing users to walk for hours at time to keep their leg muscles from atrophying.

To help stroke victims regain a fuller range of walking ability.

It can be used as a walking therapy with out the need and expense of physical therapists, minimizing medical or insurance costs.

Consumer Needs

Providing not only the physical means for, but also facilitating motivation for exercise on a daily basis

Extending the capabilities of the elderly and keeping them out of care for longer. 

To help people with muscle and joint diseases, expanding and improving their range of ability.

To help disabled people to achieve function and mobility with daily activities such as exercise, recuperative therapy, medical care and recreational fields.

Consumer Needs

The device has applications beyond disabilities or rehabilitations, such as heavy labor support at factories, and rescue support at disaster sites

Target Audience

Currently only available in Japan – looking to expand in Europe

Targeted to various fields: Rehabilitation Physical training in medical field ADL support for disabled people and the elderly Heavy labor support at factories Rescue support at disaster site Entertainment field

Analyzing Competition

Honda Experimental Walking Assist Device – lessens the force on the legs for easier walking, designed for elderly and those with mobility problems

Berkeley Bionics eLEGS - aims to help paraplegics walk in 2011

Analyzing Competition

LOPES project (LOwer-extremity Powered ExoSkeleton) designed for gait training and assessment of motor function in stroke survivors

Agro’s ReWalk - aid paraplegics to regain their upright mobility.

Analyzing Competition

Berkeley Lower Extremity Exoskeleton (BLEEX) – exoskeleton legs designed to remove carried load off the user.

Lockheed Martin’s Human Universal Load Carrier (HULC) - carry loads up to 200 pounds for up to 20 kilometers on a single battery charge

Analyzing Competition

MIT's prototype lower-body exoskeleton – reduces weight of carried loads

Raytheon Sarcos XOS exoskeleton – suit designed for military use to give enhanced strength and endurance

Projecting Demand and Growth Expectations

Healthcare 17% of nurses have lower back pain with a lifetime prevalence of 35-80%.

There is around165 million people with physical disabilities. The exoskeleton can help these people.

ABI Research market study, “Exoskeletons, Powered Prostheses and Optical Sensory Devices: The Global Market for Human Enhancement/Augmentation Systems," estimates that markets for human augmentation systems will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of nearly 41% between 2010 and 2020, pushing annual revenues from $29 million to more than $877 million.

Reasons HAL Might Fail

"HAL" is the world's first cyborg-type robot controlled by this unique Hybrid System

Can be considered bulky and thus draws attention to wearer, which consumers may not want any more attention on them (especially if disabled)

5 minutes to equip full body suit Maxes out people who are 185cm in height Expensive ($4,000) Numerous competitors

Questions?