Bionic arms could be workplace reality

The device will sense and assist movements of the arm and could be used to help lift heavy objects or perform repetitive tasks. Photo / Thinkstock

Scientists from the University of Auckland's Bioengineering institute are collaborating with the Fraunhofer research organisation in Stuttgart, Germany to create human exoskeletons that will reduce workplace injury and assist stroke patients.

The latest wearable sensor technology from the University of Auckland Bioengineering Institute (ABI) will be combined with mechanisms that enable movement provided by researchers at Fraunhofer in a project named The Bionic Joint.

Once completed, the device will sense and assist movements of the arm and could be used to help lift heavy objects or perform repetitive tasks.

This could help to reduce the risk of injury for people doing a lot of manual lifting and stroke sufferers who need assistance to move in a smooth and coordinated manner.

ABI director Professor Peter Hunter, along with Associate Professors Iain Anderson and Thor Besier, will manage the New Zealand end of the project.

"This is an extremely exciting project and the new agreement with Fraunhofer really does put the University of Auckland at the centre of this pioneering technology," said Professor Hunter.

"We believe the potential benefits of exoskeleton motion technology for people affected by strokes and other injuries that inhibit mobility will be substantial."

A Memorandum of Understanding on the project will be signed today at the University of Auckland's city campus.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel will also be visiting the university today.