In a inverse twist to exoskeleton suits that give you more power ala Iron Man and Call Of Duty: Advanced Warfare, students at Singapore Polytechnic designed one that actively reduces your physical capabilities in a simulate the effects of old age.
The New Paper reports that the concept was borne out of Singapore Polytechnic student Javier Chan's ponderations on what it's like to be old, especially after observing the physical difficulties that they faced while living together with his grandmother.
To find out, Chan got together with three of his fellow final-year aeronautical engineering students and designed the Silver Suit, giving the wearer an experience of ageing effects on the body.
Features include gas springs in the lower region of the suit restrict leg movements, making walking a difficult process, while resistance bands simulate stiff elbows and shoulders. An actuator on the back of the suit is installed to force the wearer into a hunchback position.
The Silver Suit was nine months in the making, and required extremely accurate measurements and configurations for it to work.
Chan hopes that the suit can help young people better understand the daily challenges and motor restrictions that the elderly face.
Photo: Jin Guan KOH via Flickr
In a inverse twist to exoskeleton suits that give you more power ala Iron Man and Call Of Duty: Advanced Warfare, students at Singapore Polytechnic designed one that actively reduces your physical capabilities in a simulate the effects of old age.
The New Paper reports that the concept was borne out of Singapore Polytechnic student Javier Chan's ponderations on what it's like to be old, especially after observing the physical difficulties that they faced while living together with his grandmother.
To find out, Chan got together with three of his fellow final-year aeronautical engineering students and designed the Silver Suit, giving the wearer an experience of ageing effects on the body.
Features include gas springs in the lower region of the suit restrict leg movements, making walking a difficult process, while resistance bands simulate stiff elbows and shoulders. An actuator on the back of the suit is installed to force the wearer into a hunchback position.
The Silver Suit was nine months in the making, and required extremely accurate measurements and configurations for it to work.
Chan hopes that the suit can help young people better understand the daily challenges and motor restrictions that the elderly face.
Photo: Jin Guan KOH via Flickr