Wearable Robotics operates in the service robotics sector, with a specific emphasis on utilizing wearable robots in industrial and medical settings. The company is dedicated to creating, manufacturing, and selling advanced wearable robotic devices. These devices are designed to be integrated with virtual reality systems, specifically for neuromotor rehabilitation, motor assistance, and force augmentation in medical and industrial environments. Our vision is to lead the wearable robotics market by offering cutting-edge robotic solutions that enhance sensorimotor functions, revolutionizing physical rehabilitation and support. Our mission is to implement cutting-edge robotic solutions that deliver top performance and quality for physical assistance and rehabilitation, pushing the boundaries of technology.
The mission
Founding and Recognition
In 2014, Wearable Robotics was founded as a spin-off company of Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, known as one of Italy’s top engineering schools and highly regarded globally. The company received the esteemed Italian Marzotto Prize in 2013 (€250,000) for the best industrial project. The company originated from the PERCRO (PERCeptual RObotics) laboratory of SSSA, a renowned research institution with international acclaim in haptic interfaces, wearable robotics, powered exoskeletons, and virtual reality. The goal was to leverage over 25 years of research expertise and technology transfer to the market.
Strategic Investments and Developments
Public investments totaling more than €13 million (from Italy and the EU) were utilized by PERCRO for Research, Technological Development, and Demonstration (RTD) on Exoskeletons (€8.4 million) and Virtual Reality Systems (€4.5 million), now strategic assets of Wearable Robotics. In 2014, the company secured an exclusive license agreement with SSSA for the commercial use of 6 industrial patents related to exoskeletons, advanced motion tracking technology, and innovative actuation solutions for wearable robotics. Two rehabilitation products, ALEX RS and ALEX S, were launched that year, along with the initiation of CE trademark acquisition as medical devices.
PERCRO Public Investments
€ 13 millions were utilized by PERCRO for Research, Development and Demonstration.
Exoskeletons investments
€ 8.4 millions dedicated to Exoskeletons Research, Development and Demontration.
Virtual Reality investments
€ 4.5 millions dedicated to Virtual Reality Systems Research, Development and Demonstration.
Clinical Collaborations and Certifications
In 2015, a multinational clinical study commenced for the medical evaluation of the products for stroke survivors’ motor rehabilitation in collaboration with EPFL, the University Hospital of Geneva, and the University Hospital of Pisa. Wearable Robotics obtained ISO 9001 certification in 2015 and collaborated with the Careggi Spinal Cord Unit to develop and test innovative lower limb exoskeletons for neurorehabilitation and paraplegic support. A project funded by Regione Toscana in 2016 enabled the design and development of the initial prototype of a lower limb exoskeleton for the elderly and disabled, concluding in October 2017.
Continued Achievements and Future Outlook
In 2019, Wearable Robotics acquired ISO 13485 for biomedical companies and obtained CE marks for both ALEX RS and ALEX S. A significant milestone was reached in 2022 with an agreement between Wearable Robotics and Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna to definitively acquire a family of seven industrial patents, enhancing the company’s valuable intellectual property. The utilization of robotic devices in rehabilitation shows promise for restoring and relearning motor functions through high-intensity, repetitive, task-specific, and interactive treatments. Exoskeletons, wearable robotic devices for upper and lower extremities, have emerged as effective tools in neurorehabilitation by guiding limb movements, covering natural workspaces, and providing joint control.
