Firefighting Exoskeleton Suits

[mack]

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Maybe future firefighting use following extensive development by military - powered exoskeleton suits.  Embedded micro computer chip makes skeletal frame move with soldier using intuitive control.  Offers super-human strength capability; significantly enhanced lifting; built in environmental sensors; position locators; climbing enhancement; body protection.  Being developed for military application.   

Army testing:
http://news.cnet.com/8301-13639_3-20010845-42.html

Definition:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Powered_exoskeleton

Development:
http://www.ien.com/ienblog.aspx?id=124503

Robot legs to carry heavy loads:
http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2004/03/09/1061299.htm

[Bulldog]

It certainly would work and be extremely beneficial in some circumstances but I'm afraid the almighty $ issue would kill it before it got off the ground.  The prices of these systems is outrageous so unless manpower could be cut by over 50%, which I don't see is being feasible, governments are not going to be willing to spend the money.  Also, for obvious reasons, the length of time required to attach such a system is quite long and would cause major problems in firefighting applications.

[mack]

Bulldog - You are exactly right about the cost - about $25K per suit right now.  But the military is going full speed ahead and expects significant development and improvements.  Within the next decade, production for the military and manufacturing improvements will drive downs costs significantly.  I have read where research companies are already looking at future firefighting, EMS and health care applications.  I would bet that new members who are entering the firefighting profession today will be using these technologies before they retire.  Unfortunately, I think you are correct about the expected reduction in manpower that might be expected to justify costs.  Robotics will also continue to advance. 

http://www.abiresearch.com/press/3468-HULC+Military+Exoskeleton+Ready+for+Human+Trials%3B+More+than+11,000+Expected+to+Ship+by+2020