Towards a bionic foot prosthesis
A spin-off from the VUB has created a prototype foot prosthesis that allows natural ankle movement thanks to an electronic motor.
All around the world, the most common foot prostheses are still currently made of wood. And from a technical perspective, the most difficult part of reproducing the natural movement of the foot is the need for thrust, i.e. emitting energy at the joint. But this gap in the world of medical prostheses is about to be filled.
Since 2019, Axiles Bionics, a spin-off from VUB, has specialised in the development of revolutionary foot prostheses, with the aim of achieving fluid ankle movement, which is essential for gait.
After several years of research, Pierre Cherelle, the physicist by training at the head of this Brussels-based start-up, has finally perfected a small motor that can be integrated into a prosthesis. With its reduced volume and minimal weight (200g), but sufficient autonomy, this innovative prototype appears to function extremely well, and will be able to start the commercialisation phase thanks to an initial fund-raising of €6 million.
A technical innovation taking a big step forward!