Wandercraft’s AI exoskeleton represents a significant leap forward in mobility technology, offering wheelchair users a renewed sense of independence and connection. Caroline Laubach, a spinal stroke survivor and full-time wheelchair user, is a key figure in the company’s mission. As a test pilot for Wandercraft’s prototype, Laubach describes the experience of using the exoskeleton as a transformative journey. She emphasizes the emotional and physical benefits of the device, particularly the ability to walk and engage with others at eye level, which she feels restores a sense of visibility and inclusion in her daily life. This personal testimony underscores the device’s potential to redefine the lives of millions facing mobility challenges.
The development of Wandercraft’s exoskeleton is deeply rooted in personal challenges. Nicolas Simon, one of the co-founders, initially conceived the project after his family members struggled with mobility due to Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. As a robotics enthusiast, he aimed to create a solution that could restore walking ability, a vision shared by his teammates Matthieu Masselin and Jean-Louis Constanza, who also had personal connections to the cause. The founding of Wandercraft in 2012 marked the beginning of a journey dedicated to advancing mobility solutions for individuals with disabilities.
Wandercraft’s first exoskeleton, Atalante X, has already made a significant impact, with over 100 clinics and research centers worldwide using the device. The FDA-cleared exoskeleton has helped patients take a million steps per month as part of their rehabilitation, significantly improving their quality of life. The company’s latest focus is on the Personal Exoskeleton prototype, designed for daily use in various settings, including home, work, and the community. This device, enhanced by NVIDIA AI, offers real-time adaptability and stability, making it accessible to a wide range of users. The integration of NVIDIA’s simulation tools and healthcare robotics platforms is crucial in refining the exoskeleton’s functionality for real-world application.
Wandercraft’s commitment to innovation extends beyond the exoskeleton itself. The company has established Walk in New York, a state-of-the-art physical therapy practice and Atalante X walk center located at 345 Park Avenue South. This center is the first of its kind in the U.S., combining licensed physical therapy professionals with advanced technology to provide personalized rehabilitation services. The center not only offers hands-free walking sessions with the Atalantic X exoskeleton but also integrates virtual reality systems for real-time feedback, mirror therapy, and advanced gait analysis, making rehabilitation more engaging and effective. This holistic approach to mobility solutions highlights Wandercraft’s dedication to improving the lives of individuals with neurological conditions.
The company is also working toward FDA approval for the Personal Exoskeleton, with plans to make it available to millions of wheelchair users in the U.S. and internationally. Current efforts include recruiting participants for clinical trials and exploring Medicare coverage to ensure broader accessibility. The exoskeleton’s potential to enable users to walk at an average pace, cross streets, and handle stairs marks a significant step toward integrating mobility assistance into everyday life. For Wandercraft, this technology represents not just a product but a transformative opportunity to help individuals live more independently and confidently.