Hybrid Assistive Limb
The Hybrid Assistive Limb (also known as HAL) is a powered, soft-bodied exoskeleton suit developed by Japan's Tsukuba University and the robotics company Cyberdyne. It is designed to support and expand the physical capabilities of its users, particularly people with physical disabilities. There are two primary versions of the system: HAL 3, which only provides leg function, and HAL 5, which is a full-body exoskeleton for the arms, legs, and torso.
A man wearing a 2005 prototype version of the HAL suit (left) | |
| Manufacturer | Cyberdyne |
|---|---|
| Country | Japan |
| Year of creation | 1997 (earliest prototype) 2012 (full HAL-5 suit) |
| Type | Powered exoskeleton Soft exoskeleton |
| Purpose | Medical Search and rescue |
| Website | cyberdyne.jp |
In 2011, Cyberdyne and Tsukuba University jointly announced that hospital trials of the full HAL suit would begin in 2012, with tests to continue until 2014 or 2015. By October 2012, HAL suits were in use by 130 different medical institutions across Japan. In February 2013, the HAL system became the first powered exoskeleton to receive global safety certification. In August 2013, HAL received EC certification for clinical use in Europe as the world's first non-surgical medical treatment robot. In addition to its medical applications, the HAL exoskeleton has been used in construction and disaster response work.