The prosthetic device that integrates motorized knee and ankle components was distinguished at the Cybathlon, a competition held this year in Kloten, Switzerland.
A bionic knee and ankle system developed by the Italian Institute of Technology recently won one of the top awards at the a competition that showcases technology for people with disabilities.
Called Omnia, the bionic system consists of motorized knee and ankle componentsallowing the user to deal with different situations on different surfaces.
The Reuters agency followed the proof of Andrea Modica, Omnia user. The athlete completed nine of the 10 tasks in less than three minutes.
The researchers They are still working on improving the Omnia prototype so that it can be ready to be put on the market.
Manufacturers claim that The unique composition of this prosthesis helps users walk more naturallywhile keeping them more protected from falls.
The knee combines hydraulic and electrical technology, which helps with tasks such as climbing stairs and sitting.
“This strategy allows for a more physiological walk, allowing the patient to feel safer and with a reliable system during day-to-day activities”, explains Samuele De Giuseppe, from the Italian Institute of Technology, manufacturer of the Omnia, in an interview with
The ankle has a Innovative screw mechanism that reduces heel impact and prevents tripping.
De Giuseppe states that the device is fully adaptable to each user.
“Thanks to the sensor present in the system, the prosthetic device can adapt during walking, allowing a smoother transition and reducing the risk of falls”, he adds.
