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Honda Walking Assist Device Leasing Debuts, Better Chances for Recovering Riders

Honda announces the debut of a lease sale program for the Honda Walking Assist Device (HWAD). The program will kick off in Japan, and will most likely extend to the entire world in a matter of years.
Honda Walking Assist Device 3 photos
Photo: Honda
Honda Walking Assist DeviceHonda Walking Assist Device
Derived from the cutting-edge technologies and massive research and development that went into Honda's ASIMO humanoid robot, the Walking Assist Device is aimed at helping recovery and re-establishing walking and mobility to proper functionality.

The recovery and rehabilitation period has a crucial importance in the lives of motorists who were injured in traffic accidents. The development of the Walking Assist Device begun in 1999 and until now it involved approximately 50 hospitals and other facilities in Japan.

A limited number of Walking Assist Devices have already been in use for a while, allowing Honda to refine and optimize the functions of this apparatus.

Assisting the recovering patients to achieve efficient walking and speeding therapy and training

The Honda Walking Assist Device uses massive input from the technologies of the ASIMO humanoid robot. One of the main principles of the HWAD is the inverted pendulum model, part of the theory of bipedal walking. Used under supervision and guidance from a doctor or therapist, the Honda Walking Assist Device sports three modes:

Following mode: The Walking Assist Device influence the user’s walking motions based on the walking pattern of the user.

Symmetric mode: Based on the walking patterns of the user, the Walking Assist Device influences the user to achieve bilaterally symmetric motions such as bending and extending both legs.

Step mode: The Walking Assist Device influence the user’s steps repeatedly to recover the rocker functions that enable the smooth shifting of weight. Rocker functions refer to leg motions that smoothly transfer weight from heel to the sole, and from the sole to the toes.

An adjustable belt structure endows the Walking Assist Device with universal fitment

The Walking Assist Device has an adjustable belt and frame structure that allows almost anyone to use it, being easily adapted to patients with various body sizes or types. The device also monitors dynamics and feeds a tablet app with relevant data.

Honda will lease 450 Walking Assist Device in Japan in the first year, with a cost of €331 ($363) per month, for a 36-moth contract. The cost includes annual periodic maintenance check and a training session for two trainees with the actual device.

The device will be available for lease sale in hospital and recovery facilities, increasing the chances of rehabilitation for the mobility-challenged.
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