When Gable Systems first approached us to create an app which controls the human exoskeleton they were developing, our immediate thought was the P-5000 Power Loader Ripley used in Aliens to get one over on the Xenomorph.
This thought was short-lived as our clients revealed their state-of-the-art robot designed with a far more important purpose.
Gable Systems prototype
Gait and Balance
Gable, which stands for ‘Gait and Balance,’ is a Dutch invention which helps people who are learning to walk again. Whether that be because of a condition like cerebral palsy, a medical emergency such as a stroke, or an injury, say to the spinal cord.
The device has a seat supporting the user’s body weight. It allows full control of the pelvis, whilst their upper body is secured with a harness. Below the waist is where it all happens. There are two robotic limbs which are strapped to the patient’s legs, allowing movement in any natural direction.
The unit is controlled by the patient’s physiotherapist and they can make precise movements enabling rehabilitation and balance training. It offers full physical support making them feel safe and more confident to explore their own body movement.
App
They housed the mechanics in a structure behind the user. They are designed such that the whole unit glides effortlessly, adding no undue pressure to the patient. It also enables the unit to be used over a treadmill or other device.
Next to such an outstanding bit of kit our task looked simple. We were charged with designing an Android app that controlled the robot, and that’s what we delivered.
Gable Systems is a functional prototype with a sleek app. It offers patients and physiotherapists an intuitive and easy-to-use experience.
So it seems, the machines really are coming!