In a groundbreaking step forward, Marsi Bionics in collaboration with the CSIC has developed Explorer—a pediatric exoskeleton designed to bring hospital-grade rehabilitation technology into the everyday lives of children with reduced mobility.

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Unlike earlier prototypes that were confined to controlled rehabilitation settings, Explorer is built for both home and outdoor use, aiming to empower children to explore their world with greater independence.

From Hospital to Home: The Evolution of Pediatric Exoskeletons

Nearly a decade ago, a team of researchers led by industrial engineer Elena García Armada developed Atlas, the first bionic exoskeleton for children suffering from spinal muscular atrophy. Atlas revolutionized the rehabilitation process for nearly 2,000 affected minors in Spain by transforming their treatment in controlled hospital environments. However, while Atlas made a significant impact during physiotherapy sessions, its use was limited to clinical settings.

After working closely with families, the team realized that the true difference lay in integrating this advanced technology into children’s daily lives. Children not only responded positively during their therapy sessions but also expressed a strong desire to use the exoskeleton at home and at school. This insight led to the development of Explorer—an innovative, all-terrain exoskeleton that adapts as the child grows, accommodating ages 2 through 17.

A Design That Grows With the Child

Explorer features four motors that mimic the natural functions of human muscles and includes an automatic seat that converts the device into an integrated resting chair. This design ensures continuous comfort and usability throughout the day. For instance, imagine a child using Explorer to not only play and interact with friends at school but also to perform daily activities like reaching for a phone or playing a game in the park—all of which contribute to ongoing muscle training and rehabilitation.

Minerva, a six-year-old with cerebral palsy, is one of the 50 children who participated in the trials for Explorer. Her transformation is a testament to the device’s potential. After transitioning from Atlas to Explorer, Minerva’s mobility and posture improved dramatically. Her mother, Roli Arias, shares, “Minerva is very comfortable with the exoskeleton—she enjoys it. It has changed her relationship with her environment. Now, instead of being a passive subject in a wheelchair, she is in control.”

A Testament to Innovation and Collaboration

Explorer is currently awaiting CE marking from the European Union, a key certification that will allow for its commercial use in homes and schools. With this approval, families will be able to integrate rehabilitation seamlessly into daily activities. Imagine a scenario where a simple trip to the grocery store or a playful afternoon in the park doubles as essential physical therapy—providing children with a better quality of life while training their muscles continuously.

Eloísa del Pino, president of the CSIC, highlighted during the prototype presentation that “the exoskeleton is a testament to the power of science when it is dedicated to serving people.” Marsi Bionics, which emerged from the CSIC, stands as a shining example of how public research can drive impactful, commercially viable innovations.

The development of Explorer involved a total investment of 2.2 million euros, funded by the Next Generation EU, the CSIC via the Instituto de Salud Carlos III, and several major hospitals. This significant investment underlines the high expectations for the exoskeleton’s potential to normalize the daily experiences of children with reduced mobility.

A Future of Empowered Mobility

Explorer is more than just a medical device—it is a gateway to a future where technology helps bridge the gap between rehabilitation and everyday life. By enabling children to participate fully in daily activities and fostering greater independence, Explorer paves the way for a transformative approach to pediatric mobility support.