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Episode 23 with Bionice Power: Chapter Markers
00:00 – Welcome & Introductions
Bobby Marinov and Dr. Tom Sugar introduce the episode and guests: Gualtiero, CEO, and Rob Nathan, Director of Operations at Bionic Power.
01:20 – From Military to Medical
How Bionic Power began in 2007 developing energy-harvesting knee exoskeletons for soldiers, and later pivoted to medical rehabilitation for children with cerebral palsy.
04:40 – Understanding Crouch Gait
Rob Nathan explains crouch gait and how the company’s device helps children fully extend their knees and walk with less fatigue.
07:00 – Light, Smart, and Personalized Design
Why low-torque, lightweight actuation combined with custom orthotic integration is key to making the device safe, comfortable, and long-lasting.
12:30 – Life-Changing Results: Catalina’s Story
Real-world success story: a young girl who moved from a wheelchair to walking and dancing thanks to Bionic Power’s Agilik system.
16:30 – Intelligent Control & Safety
Discussion on software-controlled torque and position, preventing hyperextension, and supporting both unilateral and bilateral users.
19:00 – Regenerative & Stair-Climbing Capabilities
New modes allow walking down ramps and stairs, even recharging the battery while descending.
22:00 – Commercialization & Insurance Coverage
How patients access the device through certified orthotists, and details on U.S. insurance reimbursement and distribution partnerships.
29:45 – Impact on Pediatric Mobility
Why early mobility intervention matters: improved endurance, gait mechanics, and potential lifelong benefits for children.
35:00 – Durability & Closing Thoughts
Tested for millions of walking cycles, the system shows military-grade durability. The episode closes with optimism about future clinical studies.
🔗 Learn more:
Bionic Power: https://bionic-power.com
Exoskeleton Report: https://exoskeletonreport.com
Wearable Robotics: https://wearablerobotics.com
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23 episodes