Bluetooth enables veterans to walk again
Written by admin on January 28th, 2008 in devices and gadgets.
We all know Bluetooth has been used in many ways to “cut the cord,” especially when it comes to mobile phones. Bluetooth technology has enabled the development of numerous hands-free solutions such as ear pieces, speakerphones, and car kits. Now that phones have gained the ability to play music, the technology is also being used to wirelessly transmit music to headphones and car stereos.
One thing you may not have imagined Bluetooth to be used for is to help people to walk again. That’s exactly what the technology is doing, according to a CNN report. Two Iraq war veterans who are double leg amputees are using a pair of prosthetics that have Bluetooth technology built-in. The Bluetooth technology allows each leg to talk to the other one so they can coordinate actions, enabling the user to walk. The motors built into the Bluetooth prosthetics are better than traditional prosthetics, because there is less of a requirement for the wearer to use his or her own muscles to move them, enabling them to be used longer.
The report notes that the Bluetooth prosthetic legs do share something in common with mobile phones–they have to be charged overnight as well. The articles notes that no spare batteries were available, but with time and improvements the battery situation will surely be improved.
Read more from the CNN article.
Tags: digital, wireless, pvr, DVD
