Prompt Cast
The Future of Exoskeletons: Human Augmentation and Military Applications
TLDR Exoskeletons, wearable robots that enhance human capabilities, have been in development since the 1960s and are now becoming viable thanks to advancements in technology and materials. With the potential to allow soldiers to carry heavy gear, handle heavy weapons, and even fly, exoskeletons have the potential to revolutionize military applications and assist people with spinal injuries.
Timestamped Summary
00:00
Exoskeletons, also known as wearable robots, are being developed as a form of human augmentation, with some models resembling the Iron Man suit.
04:17
Exoskeletons have been a goal of the US military since the 1960s, and now we are finally reaching a point where they are becoming viable.
08:08
Exoskeletons have been in development since the 1960s, with early prototypes resembling machines rather than wearable exoskeletons, due to limitations in technology and materials, but advancements in computing power and material science are now making them more viable.
12:06
Advancements in battery technology and actuator science, along with a $75 million funding from DARPA, have led to the development of exoskeletons that can allow soldiers to carry heavy gear, handle heavy weapons, carry soldiers off the field, and be impenetrable to gunfire.
15:59
The development of exoskeletons has the potential to lead to personal helicopters and other cool inventions, and companies like Sarkos (now Raytheon) are leading the way in creating exoskeletons that can mimic the movements of our own muscles and tendons.
19:35
The Pentagon and DARPA are funding Raytheon's XOS exoskeleton, with a tethered module predicted by 2015 and a non-tethered version by 2018.
23:24
In 2010, DARPA's exoskeleton suit weighs 55 pounds, can carry 200 pounds, and run at 10 miles per hour with no fatigue.
27:05
Exoskeletons have the potential to be equipped with GPS systems, thermal imaging, and computerized fabric to monitor the wearer's systems, making them useful for soldiers and people with spinal injuries.
30:44
Exoskeletons have the potential to be equipped with GPS systems, thermal imaging, and computerized fabric to monitor the wearer's systems, making them useful for soldiers and people with spinal injuries.
Categories:
Society & Culture
