Roam Robotics, an artificial intelligence and wearable robotics company, has launched its Ascend product, a “first-of-its-kind smart knee orthosis that helps wearers reduce knee pain and regain mobility”, according to the company.
Ascend’s technology is actively adapting, meaning it senses the body’s movement, automatically adjusts to the wearer’s needs, and provides precise support at the right moment for target muscle groups.
It is a registered Class I device with the FDA and will be available for purchase directly and through private and Medicare insurance, radically expanding public accessibility to wearable robotic devices.
Tim Swift, Roam’s CEO and co-founder, says: “Roam is focused on a massively underserved market. More than 20 percent of the global population is limited by their body’s mobility, and as medical advancements help people live longer that number is only going to increase.
“Our approach to wearable robotics works seamlessly with the human body to help people lead healthier, happier and more active lives, unhindered by physical limitations.”
Ascend is designed to help relieve knee pain and support functional improvements, dramatically improving mobility for patients.
A clinical study of knee osteoarthritis participants demonstrated an average of 50 percent pain reduction, and 60 percent exhibited functional improvement when using the device.
Ascend is the first wearable robotic device to show usefulness in everyday life for people suffering from joint pain who want to regain independence and live more active lifestyles.
Ascend highlights include:
- Advanced sensor technology: State-of-the-art embedded sensor technology intuitively senses and supports everyday movements, such as getting up from sitting positions or going up and down steps. The novel technology can also help those struggling with strenuous or extended activities such as gardening or long walks on the beach without pain or discomfort.
- SmartPack: Ascend’s wearable and stylish SmartPack has onboard microprocessors that utilize proprietary algorithms to recognize user intent and actively direct the device. A remote allows the user to be in control and easily manage support levels and activity modes on demand. The SmartPack also houses an air compressor and power source.
- Lightweight stability: Ascend’s lightweight carbon fiber based design makes it easy to put on, provides stability, and comfortably integrates into daily life so users are able to move with more confidence. By unloading the quadriceps muscle, Ascend reduces the burden on the knee and relieves pain.
The company has previously demonstrated commercial success with hundreds of users affirming the unique benefits of Roam’s AI-informed technology for more high-impact physical activity
Forge, a sister product for the US military is built to increase soldiers’ endurance, speed, and strength. Roam plans to expand Forge into other industries with high physical demands, such as emergency first responders.
All of the company’s products are constructed from high-strength plastics and use air compression ensuring they are lightweight, powerful and cost effective.
With existing manufacturing processes, Roam can scale and deliver robotic wearable solutions that are accessible to millions of people worldwide.
Ascend is now available for pre-orders, and devices will begin to be shipped in late summer of 2021. All devices are custom-built and initial customers placing pre-orders are invited to try Ascend in San Francisco.
