Real Life Iron Man: The Feasibility of Exoskeletons
In 2014, exoskeletons conjure up the image of heroes in Hollywood blockbusters performing feats of Herculean strength. Iron Man may make this technology seem like a sci-fi pipe dream; however, with self-driving cars and virtual reality just around the corner, it is worth asking, are they feasible?
When one sets out to discuss the feasibility of a concept it is important to cover all aspects of what it means to be “feasible.” When a complex and blurry concept of a robotic exoskeleton is broached, the answer to the question of, “is this feasible?” must be both yes and no. The feasibility of a broad subject is dependent on the feasibility of its individual parts.
What exactly constitutes a robotic exoskeleton? Will the global elite ever fly around in flashy Iron Man suits? It is difficult to say but, if we dial back the perception of Tony Stark’s legacy into fundamental components, the image becomes clearer, easier to work with, and more realistic. Strength augmentation, physical support and flight are all applications for which functioning prototype exoskeletons exist. Companies like Sarcos, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, and even Honda have developed prototype wearable exoskeletons, and the US military is currently testing high-tech armored exoskeletons to protect and enhance soldiers. Whether these prototypes will ever be financially reasonable is dependent on advances in mechanical and computing technology.
Will these prototypes ever be allowed for public use? That is difficult to say. However, if one were to show someone from the early 20th century a motor vehicle going 200 miles per hour on the Autobahn, would they would believe the legality of such a machine?
One of the most prevalent, present applications for exoskeletons has nothing to do with defeating super villains. Most exoskeletons under development have applications in physical rehabilitation. The exoskeletons in question have purposes ranging from supporting weakened muscles to retraining lost motor function, and even using the electric potential of neural signals to actuate prosthetic limbs using motors. Robotic ankles, knees, wrists and elbows have all been demonstrated as functioning prototypes. By using signals sent to vestigial or phantom muscles, the prosthetic has literally been melded to the human brain.
So, are robotic exoskeletons feasible? Yes, though they might not fit with the Hollywood portrayal of them. That isn’t to say that one day multiple concepts could not be merged into one “super suit,” but at the moment development is focused on perfecting the individual benefits of what an exoskeleton could offer a user. Where it goes from there is up to the technological advancements of our time and the future.
Joe Zimo, Mechanical Engineering, 2015
