A robot exoskeleton has helped paraplegic woman to walk at a trade fair.
The foreign visitor showed up at the exposition and was strapped in and taking her first steps within half an hour.
Her companion was visibly moved to tears watching her walk with the help of the Chinese-made lumbar assistance robot.
READ MORE: Ancient mummy found with copy of Homer’s Iliad stuffed inside abdomen
The moment took place at the 139th China Import and Export Fair, better known as the Canton Fair, which opened in Guangzhou, China, on 15 April.
The woman, named as Argentine national Maria Laura, arrived at the trade centre and headed straight for the dedicated service robotics zone.
She went to the booth of Technik Technology, also referred to as Conchin Technology, a Zhejiang-based company making its debut at the fair.
The visitor, who relies on an electric wheelchair for daily mobility, queued at the booth before trying the exoskeleton device, as reported by Need To Know.
Half an hour after arriving, she was standing on her two feet, albeit with a little difficulty.
Maria Laura then took several tentative steps in front of a crowd of stunned onlookers.
According to reports, the exoskeleton works by detecting subtle human body movements to interpret the wearer’s intentions.
Motors then provide targeted assistance to the legs, supporting natural walking motions and helping users with lower-limb impairments to stand and move more easily.
This story is as an example of how emerging robotics can have tangible benefits for people with disabilities.
The Canton Fair continues to position China as a hub for advanced manufacturing and “new quality productive forces”.
The service robotics area, now in its third year at the Canton Fair, also showcased other innovations including AI interpretation glasses, patrol robots and automated cleaning devices.
The fair, which runs until 5 May, boasts over 1.55 million square metres of exhibition space.
READ MORE: Cow headbutts model into water trough as she dances on ranch
