Centaur

The Centaur is a lightweight, semi-passive leg exoskeleton for transporting heavy equipment on foot. It is made by InteSpring, which is also involved in the gas spring mechanism found in Laevo products.

Description

The Centaur is a gravity-compensating or sometimes referred to as a weight redistribution exoskeleton. It is not a full-body exoskeleton because it doesn’t have an arm component, but it does create a full link from the shoulders down to the ground. The goal of this family of devices is to offload the musculoskeletal system of heavy loads and partially support the weight by creating a second connection between the ground and the user. The design calls for up to 60 kg (132 lb) to feel like they are 12 kg (26.5 lb).

Details:

  • Total exoskeleton weight of 8 kg (17.6 lb)
  • One size fits all.
  • 16h battery life (this is a hybrid passive/active exoskeleton)
  • Minimum contact forces (friction/shear/range limiting) on the user

The Centaur is envisioned to help the dismounted infantry of tomorrow carry the heat and awkward loads it is currently required to. It uses a hydraulic system activated by walking, increasing the body’s carrying capacity by “pushing your backpack up while you push forward.” It builds on the research and initial results of the Exobuddy. The Centaur features an artificial intelligence system to assist with correctly activating the hydraulic system and create a more natural experience while wearing the exo. The system does increase the metabolic rate slightly, but in return makes load carrying significantly safer.


InteSpring B.V., Rijswijk, Zuid Holland, Netherlands, website

Exoskeleton Report does not endorse one exoskeleton product over another. The exoskeleton catalog is purely for educational purposes. It is meant to provide an easily accessible bird’ s-eye view of the exoskeleton industry and a quick method to sort exoskeletons by type and purpose. All prices are approximate and are meant to provide a general sense of the cost of the devices.

Additional information

Application

, ,

Body Area

, , ,

Category

Type

Reviews

There are no reviews yet.

Be the first to review “Centaur”

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Upcoming Events

New Exoskeleton Report Newsletter!

Get the latest news on exoskeletons, wearable robotics, and curated articles from around the web delivered to your inbox every week!

Subscribe Now

Latest Podcast Episode: