IUVO, a spin-off company of the Sant’-Anna BioRobotics Institute in Pisa that works in the field of wearable technologies, recently received a joint investment from Comau and Össur.

The objective of IUVO is to develop “wearable, intelligent and active tools that can provide a better quality of life”.

The first practical examples are robotic exoskeletons capable of improving the working conditions of operators in
industrial applications (and for patients in need of improved mobility).

IUVO was founded in 2015 by a team of post-doctorates, professors and researchers. Comau and Össur hold a majority share of IUVO (with Comau’s the larger share).

As a world-wide leader in advanced automation solutions, Comau’s (www.comau.com) contribution stems from its ability to produce reliable robots, while Össur is renowned for delivering advanced solutions in non-invasive orthopedics that improve human mobility.

IUVO’s engineering competence in the field of wearable technologies is based on experience gained at Sant’Anna.

Mauro Fenzi, CEO of Comau, said: “This joint venture represents a key step towards creating wearable robotic exoskeletons that can enhance human mobility and quality of life.

“By uniting the know-how and enabling technologies of the various partners, we are in a unique position to extend the use of robotics beyond manufacturing and towards a truly progressive global reality.

"I believe the differentiating factor of a project like IUVO is the combination of Comau’s automation skills and Össur’s extensive experience in bionics and bracing to enable the production of products, such as exoskeletons, and to be able to demonstrate the benefits of robotics.”