Case Study - Real-Time Proportional Myo-control Exoskeleton for Neuropathy Patients

Overview

Myotron is seeking strategic investment to develop and commercialize our groundbreaking real-time proportional myo-control exoskeleton, specifically designed to restore mobility for individuals suffering from neuropathy, particularly those with conditions like Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease.

Our innovative solution leverages the natural capabilities of the Central Nervous System (CNS) through antagonist co-activation, offering a non-invasive, intuitive, and effective alternative to existing myoelectric control systems. This project aligns with Turkey's vision for technological advancement in health-tech, AI, and robotics, and has significant potential for both domestic impact and international health tourism.

Our core innovation stems from the understanding that the CNS can transmit motor intention for paralyzed muscles via antagonist co-activation, utilizing surface electromyography (SEMG) signals from healthy muscles naturally involved in the paralyzed joint's motor action. This approach overcomes the limitations of traditional myoelectric control systems that rely on peripheral nerves, which are often negligible in neuropathy cases.

What we did

Technical Innovation

Our system addresses key limitations in existing myoelectric control:

• Bypassing direct SEMG from paralyzed muscles: We extract SEMG signals from healthy antagonist muscles that naturally co-activate during intended movement.
• Leveraging CNS adaptability: Our system allows the CNS to adapt and improve control through continuous visual and sensory biofeedback.
• Real-time control: By extracting envelopes of antagonist muscle SEMG signals, we achieve continuous and fluid control of movement characteristics.
• Open-circuit operation: The biofeedback mechanism "enslaves" the CNS, enabling the exoskeleton to operate efficiently while the CNS manages motor action.

Market Opportunity

The global market for rehabilitation robotics and exoskeletons is experiencing significant growth. Our solution targets a critical unmet need, particularly for:

• Neuropathy patients: Our primary target, especially those with conditions like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
• Earthquake-related injuries: The February 2023 earthquakes in Turkey's southeast caused massive casualties, with an estimated 70,000 people now living with permanent disabilities.
• Regional needs: Neighboring countries face immense challenges with limb loss due to conflicts, representing a substantial humanitarian and market opportunity.

Investment Opportunity

We are seeking investment to:

• Accelerate R&D: Further refine the prototype and conduct extensive clinical trials
• Scale manufacturing: Establish robust manufacturing capabilities to meet anticipated demand
• Market entry: Fund marketing and sales efforts in Turkish and international markets
• Regulatory approvals: Cover costs associated with necessary medical device certifications
• Talent acquisition: Recruit top-tier engineers, researchers, and business development professionals

Through this investment, we aim to significantly enhance the independence and quality of life for neuropathy patients, contribute to Turkey's economic development in AI and health-tech sectors, and strengthen national capabilities in responding to future health crises.