Episode 23 with Bionice Power: Chapter Markers
00:00 – Welcome & Introductions
Bobby Marinov and Dr. Tom Sugar introduce the episode and guests: Gualtiero, CEO, and Rob Nathan, Director of Operations at Bionic Power.
01:20 – From Military to Medical
How Bionic Power began in 2007 developing energy-harvesting knee exoskeletons for soldiers, and later pivoted to medical rehabilitation for children with cerebral palsy.
04:40 – Understanding Crouch Gait
Rob Nathan explains crouch gait and how the company’s device helps children fully extend their knees and walk with less fatigue.
07:00 – Light, Smart, and Personalized Design
Why low-torque, lightweight actuation combined with custom orthotic integration is key to making the device safe, comfortable, and long-lasting.
12:30 – Life-Changing Results: Catalina’s Story
Real-world success story: a young girl who moved from a wheelchair to walking and dancing thanks to Bionic Power’s Agilik system.
16:30 – Intelligent Control & Safety
Discussion on software-controlled torque and position, preventing hyperextension, and supporting both unilateral and bilateral users.
19:00 – Regenerative & Stair-Climbing Capabilities
New modes allow walking down ramps and stairs, even recharging the battery while descending.
22:00 – Commercialization & Insurance Coverage
How patients access the device through certified orthotists, and details on U.S. insurance reimbursement and distribution partnerships.
29:45 – Impact on Pediatric Mobility
Why early mobility intervention matters: improved endurance, gait mechanics, and potential lifelong benefits for children.
35:00 – Durability & Closing Thoughts
Tested for millions of walking cycles, the system shows military-grade durability. The episode closes with optimism about future clinical studies.
🔗 Learn more:
Bionic Power: https://bionic-power.com
Exoskeleton Report: https://exoskeletonreport.com
Wearable Robotics: https://wearablerobotics.com
💌 Subscribe to the Weekly Newsletter: Stay updated on exoskeleton news, jobs, and research.
☕ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ExoskeletonReport
Special thanks to our Patreon supporters for helping make this episode a reality!
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.