The best robotic technologies connect people to their better, stronger, self-sufficient, and self-directed selves.
This has been the mission of Ontario-based Trexo Robotics. Their gait training exoskeleton helps children with mobility challenges walk to improve gait pattern, strength, and endurance. While there is growing clinical data as to the efficacy of robot assisted gait therapy (RAGT), the real impact of these devices is illustrated through the stories of the children and families they serve.
Trexo Robotics recently celebrated one hundred million steps taken by children using their devices.
The impact of this milestone was best expressed by Trexo CEO and Co-Founder Manmeet Maggu:
“The hundred million is not just a number. These are memories, moments and special stories. This is a celebration for the perseverance of our early customers and our investors. But most importantly, it is a celebration of the kiddos.”
How Trexo Connects Kids to their Stronger, Healthier, and Confident Selves
The Trexo device provides walking assistance with a pair of robotic legs with servo motors (exoskeleton) that attach to the child’s legs. Trexo integrates this into an ergonomic, purpose-built walker which also houses the robotic controller. Parents or caregivers use tablet-based software to control the robotics to ambulate for the child.
This is based on individually defined gate angles specific to each child, along with support forces to determine motor strength.
The ability to tailor this device to almost any child gives parents and caregivers the power to support goal achievement through walking support. A foundational parameter is adjustment of steps per minute from 10 to 70.
The device does much more than adjust speed and gait by creating a feedback loop between it and the child’s actions to adjust initiation based on the child’s progress, so they do more of the walking as opposed to the machine.
Other higher-order functions of the device include saddle removal when and if the child reaches a certain strength level. The supporting frame and robotic device controller can also be reversed to work behind the child for greater openness. These all have wide-ranging possible health outcomes that may include improvements to:
- Posture, head, neck, and range of motion control
- Sensory motor feedback
- Blood flow and endorphin increase from exercises not possible in wheelchairs
- Bowel control
- Diet from pureed to solid foods, which Trexo has observed in specific users
- Transfers because of possible increased strength
While every child’s journey is different and personal, research by Trexo and others in the field shows how RAGT can support positive outcomes over a wide range of use cases.
Overcoming Robotic Technology and Design Challenges
Like any robotic device, taking Trexo from an idea to a working prototype and then to a production model was full of challenges. At the heart of these life-changing devices lies a complex network of components working in unison to ensure functionality, safety, and adaptability.
ElectroShield’s part in this was supporting connectivity where continuous movement, driven by power and data transmission, are vital in gait trainers. Delivering these aspects between the device and a distributed servo motor power system required connectors and cables with maximum flexibility and durability.
The symbiotic nature of robotics/connector trends and advancements will always require maximum precision, efficiency, and safety where people are involved.
OEM-specified connectors for robotic devices must rise to this challenge by delivering:
- Aesthetic and physical ergonomics (small, lightweight, adaptable, durable, flexible and color compatible) to fit seamlessly within the design
- Minimal cable/connector strain, easy mating/locking, and vibration resistance for flawless electronic connection integrity
- Highest quality power and data transfer
This can mean compliance with a host of stringent electronic protection regulations, including:
- UL certification and VO flammability rating
- IP ratings
- Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS)
- National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) ratings
Trexo gives parents and therapists the ability to empower children with assisted walking through innovative robotics. Their ongoing mission is to produce solutions that lead the way in the convergence of compassionate innovation and technical excellence to transform pediatric mobility.
ElectroShield is honored to play a small part in celebrating the realization of each child's journey towards greater independence with the Trexo Robotics gait training device. We also acknowledge the intricate technologies and dedicated professionals that make these strides possible.
Together, they exemplify the profound impact of robotics that holistically merges technology in service to each child’s journey of countless steps to a stronger, healthier, more confident self.
To learn more about how ElectroShield can help you find the right components for your robotics application, connect with us today.
