Photo: www.sputniknews.com
Iron Man was a character by which its creator explored Cold War themes, particularly the role of American technology and business in the fight against communism. Sure, it later evolved to contemporary concerns, such as corporate crime and terrorism. The superhero currently played by Robert Downey Jr. on the big screens is also an inspiration for future military technology.
The US military is working on separate projects, trying to create the perfect Iron Man inspired outfit soldiers will use one day. We have written about it before as their purpose always remains the same: enhance strength, offer protection and save the wearer’s energy while in combat.
Nature is again saving our behinds, since scientists take inspiration from insects such as grasshoppers and scorpions that have evolved such an enhancement. Too bad we can only think of ways to use these strengths to kill each other better, but that’s a different discussion.
The point is Russia is apparently planning to use this technology themselves in about five years' time. A Russian defense contractor recently announced they will be able to mass produce mind-controlled exoskeletons for Russian soldiers. According to Russia Today, the devices would allow the troops to run faster, jump higher and lift weights of up to 300 kg (661 lbs).
“I think in about five years we will have a neuro-interface to control exoskeletons and prosthetics through the brain’s electric impulses,” Aleksandr Kulish, the head of the medical equipment, development and manufacturing department of Russia’s United Instrument Manufacturing Corporation said.
Kulish claims they are already able to control an exoskeleton through visual images, as in the person wearing it imagines something, and the device will react accordingly. However, the scientists claim the exoskeletons could have numerous civilian implementations too. First responders could one day use them for instance.
Nature is again saving our behinds, since scientists take inspiration from insects such as grasshoppers and scorpions that have evolved such an enhancement. Too bad we can only think of ways to use these strengths to kill each other better, but that’s a different discussion.
The point is Russia is apparently planning to use this technology themselves in about five years' time. A Russian defense contractor recently announced they will be able to mass produce mind-controlled exoskeletons for Russian soldiers. According to Russia Today, the devices would allow the troops to run faster, jump higher and lift weights of up to 300 kg (661 lbs).
“I think in about five years we will have a neuro-interface to control exoskeletons and prosthetics through the brain’s electric impulses,” Aleksandr Kulish, the head of the medical equipment, development and manufacturing department of Russia’s United Instrument Manufacturing Corporation said.
Kulish claims they are already able to control an exoskeleton through visual images, as in the person wearing it imagines something, and the device will react accordingly. However, the scientists claim the exoskeletons could have numerous civilian implementations too. First responders could one day use them for instance.
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