- French Paralympian Kevin Piette made history by carrying the Olympic torch with a robotic exoskeleton.
- Piette’s journey from a life-changing accident to walking again with the help of Wandercraft’s exoskeleton is detailed.
- Learn how the exoskeleton works and its potential impact on healthcare.
French Paralympian Kevin Piette made history as he carried the Olympic torch while wearing a robotic exoskeleton, marking a significant moment for both technology and the Paralympic community.
French Paralympian takes historic strides with Olympic torch
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Piette, a 36-year-old tennis player, stunned the world as he walked with the Olympic torch in a robotic exoskeleton.
After losing the use of his legs in a road accident at age 11, Piette has largely relied on a wheelchair.
However, with the help of a cutting-edge exoskeleton developed by Wandercraft, he was able to stand and walk during this iconic moment.
The Olympic torch relay, a symbol of unity and athletic spirit, was made even more memorable by Piette’s participation.
As the torch made its way through Paris, Piette’s strides showcased the incredible advancements in assistive technology and the unyielding spirit of Paralympians.
The relay, which will conclude at the Eiffel Tower, features a star-studded lineup, including Snoop Dogg, French actress Laetitia Casta, and rapper MC Solaar.
How Kevin Piette earned a second chance at walking with exoSkeleton
Kevin Piette’s journey to walking again is nothing short of miraculous.
After his devastating accident, Piette refused to let his condition define him.
He immersed himself in motorsports, which eventually led him to Wandercraft, a French company specialising in robotic exoskeletons.
Wandercraft’s exoskeleton, particularly the latest self-balancing model, Atalante X, has revolutionised Piette’s life.
This device uses 12 motors—six at the hips, two at the knees, and four at the ankles—to create natural and balanced movements. Users control the exoskeleton with a remote and a sensor that responds to upper body movements.
“The first time you stand up is pretty impressive because you can do it very easily, very quietly, comfortably. And then you have this upright posture that you had actually forgotten about,” Piette shared with Euronews Next.
Piette can now perform simple tasks like cooking and reaching for items in high places, things he once thought were impossible.
Beyond practical benefits, the exoskeleton has improved his health by enhancing blood flow, aiding digestion, and reducing his reliance on medication.
Wandercraft’s exoskeletons are currently used in hospitals for rehabilitation, with the potential to revolutionise healthcare by providing mobility to those who have lost it.
