IEEE Spectrum has a special feature article on
exoskeletons. They cover a range of current prototype exoskeletons
including the Linux-controlled HAL unit
from Japan which is scheduled to
hit the market by 2006, making it the first commercially available
exoskeleton. They provide a list of exoskeleton
projects in the US, Asian
projects, and European
projects. The Japanese and European units are primarily targeted at
medical rehabilitation or assistance and allowing medical technicians
to lift patients safely. While some US exoskeletons have medical
applications, most are being developed as part of DARPA's human
augmentation program for military applications such loading bombs or
carrying combat equipment. A photo gallery showing
some of the exoskeletons mentioned is also provided.