A young innovator from Kerala has developed an artificial intelligence-powered exoskeleton to help paralysed patients walk again, driven by his father's decade-long struggle with paralysis after a two-wheeler accident.
The Inspiration Behind the Innovation
Alan Sindhu Dinsha, a 29-year-old physics graduate with an MBA from Bengaluru, witnessed his father's daily challenges with movement, bathing, and standing. The emotional toll on both the patient and caregivers inspired him to ask: What if technology could let a paralysed person walk again?
In an interview, Alan shared, 'When my father was bedridden, we took care of him ourselves and handled his physiotherapy. We understood how painful it is for both the patient and the bystanders. He now started walking; however, that thought stayed with me.'
From Corporate Career to Startup
Alan initially worked in the corporate sector before shifting focus to artificial intelligence. About two years ago, he launched his startup, Innodots Innovations, based in Kollam, Kerala. The company's flagship product is Exobonic, an AI-driven exoskeleton designed to restore mobility to individuals with lower-limb paralysis, stroke-related disabilities, or spinal injuries.
How Exobonic Works
Exobonic uses electroencephalogram (EEG) sensors to read brain signals. When the user thinks about walking, the AI interprets the intention and triggers the exoskeleton to move the limbs. The device is fully pneumatic, employing air-pressure-driven chambers instead of traditional motors to support the body and move the legs.
The development team, including Al Imtiaz and Arun Aravindakshan from Sree Chithira Thirunal College of Engineering, Thiruvananthapuram, collaborated with Kadakkal Kimsat Hospital to collect and analyse EEG data from volunteers. They used AI to identify patterns and embedded the program in a chip attached to the suit. The current prototype is about 85 percent accurate and can support users up to 80 kilograms.
Impact and Future Plans
The prototype weighs around 35 kilograms and costs approximately ₹6 lakh. However, the team expects the price to decrease with mass production in India. Beyond clinical and home use, Exobonic could find applications in defence and rescue operations, where the suit can lighten heavy loads and protect users in challenging terrain.
Alan's journey from witnessing his father's paralysis to creating a life-changing device exemplifies how personal adversity can drive technological breakthroughs. His work offers hope to millions of paralysed individuals worldwide.
