The intelligent wearable exoskeleton developed by the Chinese technology company Fourier Intelligence ignites hope for the disabled. This powered lower-limb exoskeleton, Fourier X1, is sculpted from aluminium and carbon fibre reinforced plastic, making the exoskeleton light and wearable. High performance battery-powered motors are used to actuate the hips and knees, enabling the disabled or paraplegics to stand up and walk.

Fourier X1, which is intended for use by patients with stroke and spinal cord injury, uses 19 sensors scattered around different joints or parts to monitor human biomechanics data, including the user’s stride and frequency, plantar pressure and walking habits. With the help of multi-sensor fusion technology and 11 separate central processing units (CPUs), the intelligent exoskeleton can formulate gait curves optimised for individual users. Sudden changes in stride or centre of gravity, which indicates the user is about to fall down, can also be detected by the sensors, allowing the Fourier X1 to shut down and prevent accidents from happening, as well as contact rescuers automatically.

In addition to personal use, Fourier X1 is also equipped with clinical capabilities. A back-end system collects and analyses data retrieved by the exoskeleton, enabling therapists to provide customised, goal-oriented, potent and safe gait training sessions throughout the different stages of the rehabilitation process.

Fourier Intelligence is expected to launch Fourier X1 initially on a small scale for medical institutions, to assist in the rehabilitation of paraplegics.