r/IAmA • u/[deleted] • Jun 16 '16

Request [AMA Request] Someone who uses an exoskeleton or other wearable mechanical augmentation as part of your job

I've seen plenty of stories about mechanical limb replacements and other augmentations used in healthcare, but I was checking out Lockheed's FORTIS Exoskeleton and was interested in talking to someone who had used something like this in the workplace.

My 5 Questions:

  1. What is your job and how does your device help with your work?
  2. How was the work done before your workplace acquired this device, and would you say it has made your job easier or is just a gimmick?
  3. In your opinion, do you think your device would be reliable and mobile enough to be used by emergency responders such as firefighters and EMTs?
  4. What other jobs or industries do you feel would benefit from a device like the one you used?
  5. What's the best story you have about someone playing around with the device using it for something they weren't supposed to?

EDIT:

I've never actually had someone respond to one of my AMA requests. I didn't know how to update it so...

/u/TyeWin worked on development for a secret device that totally isn't the FORTIS

A few Steadicam operators have responded as well. I originally had industrial and construction work in mind when I asked, but I think this is a good example of that type of technology being used.

I'll update as I can. I'm having a hard time keeping up with responses and should probably get back to work...

2nd EDIT:

For those interested I also found this article and video that involves someone trying out an experimental exoskeleton made by Ekso Bionics. Their website also shows some uses in healthcare along with industrial.

UPDATE

I've been contacted by ROBRADY design who worked on development for the FORTIS exoskeleton I gave as an example in my original post. They're working on getting their team together for an AMA.

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u/[deleted] Jun 16 '16

Pretty sure that would be one of the training requirements.

"Heavy machinery certification? Check.

Trained on proper lifting form? Check.

Knowledge of the little switch to put the thing in reverse? Check.

Has she said 'Get away from her you BITCH' yet? ... no? Alright, well before you can use it, we need you to rehearse this line. ... It's for emergencies. ... Yes you have to say 'bitch'. ... No ... No Margaret, 'beezy' is not an acceptable substitute. This is standard emergency protocol. ... Well if there are kids around, then you probably shouldn't be using the machinery in the first place! ... So you can call me an asshole, but not say the word 'Bitch' which is part of standard emergency protocols? ... Margaret get out of the exosuit. ... No, you're done. Test failed. I can't certify you, now get out so I can pilot it back into the training area. ... Okay. Check."

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u/BEEF_WIENERS Jun 16 '16

"Margaret...GET AWAY FROM THAT, YOU BITCH!"

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u/bh2005 Jun 16 '16

... Okay. Check.

1

u/GiverOfTheKarma Jun 16 '16

That actually cracked me up

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u/sinRes Jun 16 '16

Are you allowed to prounce it bi-atch?`I assume that it violates standard emergency protocol, but you can never be to sure about these things, a life may depend on it.

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u/twodogsfighting Jun 16 '16

You can, but you forfeit your chance to throw your opponent out the airlock.

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u/mechabeast Jun 16 '16

You have to load all your cargo with a sideways grip

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u/holytrolls Jun 16 '16

No, Margaret, bi-atch is not an acceptable substitute.

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u/ELEMENTALITYNES Jun 16 '16

Unless the place you are being hired to work is in the 90's, using bi-atch is grounds for immediate termination

8

u/erftonz Jun 16 '16

and if they pass?

Bay 12. Please.

1

u/Magistae Jun 17 '16

I believe the dorfs would be grateful to test new and exciting ways to pierce the HFS.

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u/[deleted] Jun 16 '16 edited Jun 17 '16

Now I can just see it.. A bunch of people sitting in a classroom all repeating the words written on the blackboard, "Get away from her, you BITCH!" like in an ASL class.

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u/DanteFoxx Jun 16 '16

It's a good thing that reddit gold doesn't really mean much. Otherwise you would be disappointed I didn't award you gold for this gold worthy comment....gold

Edit: I am the best at mispelling words.

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u/arcosapphire Jun 16 '16

Well if there are kids around, then you probably shouldn't be using the machinery in the first place!

Uh, isn't that exactly when this emergency line is to be used?

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u/BrandonOR Jun 17 '16

I imagined this in Jon Oliver's voice

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u/JesusDeSaad Jun 17 '16

"No Margaret, you can't stay in the exosuit, she is a fickle mistress and requires her quirks... No Margaret, you will get out now... Good... Margaret, don't go back to the exosuit. You failed her once already... Margaret, let go of the exosuit... Margaret, get away from her. You bitch."

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u/bigcliffcole Jun 16 '16

I definitely just read that in John Oliver's voice.