By Andy Choi
The availability of the PowerFoot BiOM has been increased by iWalk by increasing the number of centres that are certified for distributing the BiOM. iWalk has certified 12 more prosthetic providers in the nation to offer the BiOM.
PowerFoot BiOM
The PowerFoot BiOM is the first ever robotic lower leg system which is capable of normalizing the metabolic efficiency of amputees and providing them an option of choosing the walking speed that is comfortable for them.
The bionics technology on which the BiOM has been designed was developed by Dr. Hugh Herr from MIT. He has established himself as a well-known researcher in the field of biological motion control, augmentation technologies and biomechanics. In order to be a certified iWalk Bionics Center, the prosthetists need to establish their expertise in the bionic technology of the BiOM and also prove themselves in providing client satisfaction, quality fabrication and clinical care. Apart from these points the prosthetists must have active partnerships with established suppliers who provide the latest available technology for amputees. The CEO of iWalk said that by increasing the number of certified BiOM centers, more number of amputees will benefit by its advanced PowerFoot BiOM. According to a research finding that was released by iWalk, there is proven evidence that BiOM is capable of normalizing the BiOM level ground walking even at multiple speeds, which was not possible by biological limbs. The research also mentioned that amputees were able to easily and confidently vary their speed of walking with the BiOM than when wearing a conventional carbon fiber foot.
Source: http://www.iwalk.com/