Paris Olympics Highlight Advanced Exoskeleton Tech

The 2024 Paris Olympics has been a magnificent spectacle of not just human athleticism, but also technology. The highlight so far has been para-athlete Kevin Piette carrying the Olympic torch while wearing an exoskeleton designed by French engineering company Wandercraft. This moment signifies the arrival of cutting-edge robotics on a global stage. 

Piette, who lost the ability to use his legs in a car accident 11 years ago, is giving hope and inspiration to millions around the world with his courage and determination. Although he did not qualify for wheelchair tennis at these games, he was eager to participate in some form at this grand event. His participation using an exoskeleton is symbolic of overcoming adversity through innovation. 

Wandercraft was founded in 2012 with an aim to develop advanced self-balancing robotic devices that could assist people with mobility issues. Their flagship product, Atalante X, is already being used globally in rehabilitation centers helping patients regain their mobility. 

The company's spokesperson explained how they took up one of robotics' toughest challenges - creating a self-balancing humanoid device capable of supporting those unable to move their legs. They are currently developing personal-use versions aiming for everyday usability – ideally allowing users to wear them throughout an entire workday – moving beyond clinical settings into daily life situations. 

This concept may seem like it’s straight out from science fiction movies such as "Aliens," "Elysium," or even Tony Stark's suit from “Iron Man”. However, Wandercraft along with CalTech have made significant strides towards making this futuristic idea into reality today. 

Caltech Professor Aaron Ames stated that getting paraplegics up and moving can offer numerous health benefits besides restoring locomotion capability. The functioning mechanism involves algorithms programmed into the suit which respond based on torso movements made by the wearer somewhat similar to operating joystick controls. 

Ames’ collaboration with Wandercraft led him towards establishing Caltech's Robotic Assisted Mobility (RoAM) initiative. This partnership enabled them to experiment with new ideas while developing the exoskeleton technology. 

The cost of these suits is admittedly high, but recent policy changes in the United States have made it possible for people to get assistance in purchasing such assistive technologies. Medicare's final ruling on reimbursing exoskeletons has opened up opportunities for many who need this kind of support. 

Keontae Clark from San Francisco became the first person to receive an exoskeleton suit through her health insurance, which reportedly cost $100,000. It’s a significant step towards making advanced mobility aids more accessible and affordable for those in need. 

Kevin Piette carrying the Olympic torch using Wandercraft's exoskeleton serves as a testament not just to human resilience but also technological advancements that are transforming lives across the globe. The 2024 Paris Olympics will be remembered not only for its sporting achievements but also as an event where robotics had their moment under global spotlight- changing perceptions about disability and providing hope for a future where everyone can participate fully regardless of physical limitations.