First for SA as robotic exoskeleton aids Table Mountain rescue

For the first time in South Africa, a robotic exoskeleton was employed in a mountain rescue on Table Mountain's Platteklip Gorge on Saturday night. The exoskeleton aided a 47-year-old woman, who was part of a hiking family, by assisting her in descending the steep gorge. The woman had been hiking all day with her family when the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway closed for the day, leaving them with a long descent ahead and fading light.

The family reached out to Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) for assistance. A small team, comprised of WSAR personnel and a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedic, promptly responded to their call.

Upon arrival, the team noticed that the 47-year-old mother was exhausted and struggling to continue her descent. To help her navigate the challenging terrain, WSAR utilized the Hypershell Exoskeleton, a lightweight, battery-operated device worn around the hips and thighs. This exoskeleton is designed to assist the wearer's natural movement by providing powered assistance with each step, helping to alleviate some of the strain on tired legs.

Once the exoskeleton was fitted, the woman's steps became steadier, and her confidence grew. With the rescue team by her side, she was able to continue her descent using both her own strength and the assistance of the exoskeleton. The family successfully reached safety around 11 pm. This marks the inaugural use of an exoskeleton in a South African rescue operation, and WSAR views it as another valuable tool to provide appropriate assistance based on a patient's needs.

In this instance, the exoskeleton played a crucial role in helping the exhausted hiker regain her strength and regain her confidence to walk herself off the mountain. WSAR expressed gratitude to their team members, the family, and emphasized the importance of seeking help early when faced with challenging situations.