1. Technology Overview
The invention focuses on a versatile lower limb prosthesis, named Walking and Running Prosthesis (WARP), designed to improve locomotion across both low-impact walking and higher-impact running tasks. The prosthesis actively varies its properties to match different tasks, using semi-active actuation to modify its structure without requiring human-scale power input. The technology is currently in the development stage, with promising cross-industry applications in prosthetics, rehabilitation, and sports equipment.
2. Key Features and Benefits
Versatile Locomotion: Switches between walking and running modes.
Semi-Active Actuation: Modifies properties without heavy, noisy motors.
Enhanced Mobility: Provides improved versatility compared to passive prostheses.
Compatibility: Integrates with existing running-specific prostheses.
Scalability: Production processes can be scaled for larger quantities.
3. Applications and Market Focus
Prosthetics: Use in versatile lower limb prosthetic devices.
Rehabilitation: Integration into enhanced mobility solutions.
Sports Equipment: Development of adaptive devices for athletes.
Advanced Mobility Solutions: Use in emerging prosthetics and rehabilitation applications.
Medical Devices: Exploitation of semi-active actuation for various applications.
4. Commercial Advantages
Strategic Benefits: Provides reliable and scalable prosthetic devices for various applications.
Implementation Advantages: Facilitates integration into existing prosthetics and rehabilitation systems.
Market Positioning: Positions technology as a key enabler for advanced mobility solutions.
Competitive Advantages: Offers versatile locomotion and semi-active actuation compared to existing methods.
5. Partnership Opportunities
Ideal Licensing Partners: Prosthetics manufacturers, rehabilitation centers, sports equipment companies.
Cross-Sector Partnership Benefits: Collaboration opportunities across prosthetics, rehabilitation, and sports equipment industries.
Diverse Market Opportunities: Potential for global market expansion in regions with strong prosthetics and rehabilitation industries.
Collaborative Development: Opportunities for joint development of hybrid devices and custom fabrication services.