AIDER Lower Limb Exoskeleton

AIDER (Assistive Device for Paralyzed Patients) is a powered lower limb exoskeleton developed by Buffalo Robot Technology for rehabilitation of patients with paraplegia and other conditions affecting walking ability. The system integrates a hip-knee powered exoskeleton with optional passive robotic walker support, enabling safe gait training for patients who lack sufficient upper body strength to use crutch-based systems.

Product Overview

Developed through collaboration between Buffalo Robot and the UESTC Robotics Research Center, AIDER addresses the rehabilitation needs of patients with spinal cord injuries, stroke, and neurological conditions. The device enables sit-to-stand transitions, level-ground walking, and stair navigation while providing detailed therapy data to practitioners.

The exoskeleton received NMPA Class II Innovative Medical Device certification in 2022, representing one of the first batch of approved lower limb exoskeletons in China. Clinical trials for Class III registration are underway, with approval anticipated in the first half of 2026.

Key Features

At 22 kg with hip-knee bilateral actuation, the AIDER exoskeleton from Buffalo Robot supports EMG, EEG, and hybrid brain-computer interface control for paraplegia and spinal cord injury rehabilitation.

• Multi-Modal Control: Supports EMG (electromyography), EEG (electroencephalography), and hybrid EMG-EEG control interfaces, allowing the system to detect patient movement intentions through muscle and brain signals
• Walker Integration: Optional connection to passive robotic walker provides coronal plane stability for patients with compromised upper limb and trunk strength, eliminating the need for crutches
• Adaptive Gait Planning: Slope gradient adaptive algorithms automatically adjust gait patterns for inclined surfaces
• Intention Recognition: Real-time analysis of user movement intentions enables responsive assistance during walking
• Multiple Training Modes: Supports gait training, lower limb coordination exercises, strength training, cognitive training, and posture control protocols

Technical Specifications

At 22 kg with a 150–180 cm user height range, AIDER supports sit-to-stand, walking, and stair-climbing through EMG, EEG, and hybrid control modes approved under NMPA Class II in 2022.

Clinical Applications

AIDER is indicated for patients with lower limb motor dysfunction resulting from:

• Spinal cord injury (particularly T2-L1 level injuries)
• Stroke-related hemiplegia
• Central nervous system neuropathy
• Other neurological conditions affecting ambulation

The device operates on neuroplasticity principles—repetitive, standardized gait training stimulates formation of new neural pathways, potentially improving motor function over time. Clinical studies have examined outcomes including walking distance (6-minute walk test), quality of life measures (WHOQOL-BREF), and independence metrics (SCIM-III).

Research published in peer-reviewed journals has investigated AIDER’s effects on bowel function in motor-complete spinal cord injury patients, exploring brain-gut axis involvement in exoskeleton-assisted rehabilitation.

Regulatory Status

The Class II certification currently covers paraplegia rehabilitation applications. The pending Class III registration will expand approved indications and enable broader commercial deployment.

Deployment

AIDER has been deployed in hundreds of hospitals across China, with notable installations at West China Hospital (Sichuan University) and other major rehabilitation centers. Buffalo Robot reports that the device has assisted over 10,000 patients in walking rehabilitation programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AIDER exoskeleton used for?

AIDER is designed for gait rehabilitation training in patients who cannot walk independently due to spinal cord injury, stroke, or other neurological conditions. It provides powered assistance at the hip and knee joints to enable standing and walking exercises, with the goal of improving motor function through repetitive training.

How does AIDER differ from other rehabilitation exoskeletons?

AIDER distinguishes itself through multi-modal control capabilities, including brain-computer interface (EEG) options alongside traditional EMG control. The optional walker integration also addresses a key limitation of crutch-dependent systems by providing stability for patients with upper body weakness.

Is AIDER available for home use?

AIDER is currently positioned as a clinical rehabilitation device for use in hospitals and rehabilitation centers under professional supervision. Buffalo Robot is developing consumer-oriented products for home and personal use, but the current AIDER system requires trained operator oversight.