 “The World We Dream” Prosthesis of the 21st century, breaking milestones that were once dreamt about. Where bio-mechanics overrules the natural anatomy’s dynamic. By Shane M. Ramos 4 Crosby Drive Bedford, MA

History of iWalk In 2003 the U.S. department of Veteran Affairs, Army Telemedicine, and Advanced Technology Research Center (TATRC) made the decision to fund many visionaries, manufacturers, and universities with tens of millions of dollars to highly improve prosthetics of the 21 st century. Hugh Herr (bi-lateral amputee), PhD-Director of Biomechanics at MIT developed and commercialized “Personal Bionics” formally known as iWalk Inc.

The Goal Behind The Man 1.imbed the intelligence of how humans walk into synthetic structures. 2.control how muscles are controlled neurally, then imbed them into devices fluidly as if they were made of flesh and bone.

The Typical Human Leg

Past Forms of Prosthesis Early 21 st Century Time Line of Advancements

“A new lease on life!”-state many patients fitted with the BiOM Ankle System

The Science Behind It Emulates missing muscle and tendon functions, substituting nerves. Provides a powering movement and normalizing function (Achilles' Spring) Reduces aches and pains associated with traditional prosthesis Eliminates stress on joints which usually lead to deviations in the gait of a walk. The powered propulsion of the BiOM system increases energy return by 100% and mechanical power delivery by 800%. Overall, the process injects more mechanical energy into the patient’s walking stride than is absorbed. 1:8 millions of sensors that are connected to (4) microprocessors. These microprocessors comprehend the sensors readings and produce a movement-energy level in correlation to it. The Benefits Natural walking gait, and speed Perform daily activities with less energy usage Reduce intact leg stress after heel strike **Navigate with confidence and strength of changing surfaces, terrains, hills, and stairs Personal Bionic tuning where robots, bioengineering, and prosthetics meet

Up Close and Personal

Where To Receive a BiOM There are roughly 150 locations across the U.S. where the new BiOM products are available for fitment and installation. These places are primarily Orthotics and Prosthetic offices. The closest location to myself would be Next Step Orthotics and Prosthetics in Warwick Rhode Island.

The Future Ahead Of iWalk Now that the BiOM Ankle System has been perfected and commercialized, Dr. Hugh Herr is specializing in the development of multi-purpose Ankle Systems. Prototypes have been designed for the construction of specialized accessories for the leg, such as ones for mountain climbing, swimming, ice skating, and also a more extreme sprinting ankle

Works Cited  [1] URI BME 181 BME Seminar II.  [2] iWalk Incorporated Website:  [3] Kyle Alspach -VC Editor Boston Business Journal  |< firmiwalk-  raises.html>  [4]Rachel Metz- Embracing The Artificial Limb 