Researchers in Japan are known for their affinity in the field of creating enhancement devices for the human body, allowing regular people to perform feats that they would otherwise be incapable of. This is also the case with scientists at the Tsukuba University, who recently developed a new type of accessory, in the form of a motorized knee. The device allows people to run faster than they would normally, while also using a lot less muscle forces than usually, PhysOrg reports.

The new instrument is made of two separate pieces, weighing in at five kilograms (about ten pounds) each. One component is attached to the knee of the bearer, while the other is placed inside a backpack the person wears on his or her back. The team behind the innovation emphasizes the fact that the new, motorized knee is not meant to be a prosthetics device for the handicapped, but rather an aid for regular people, who just want to be able to run faster than usually.

The knee part of the device consists of a number of sensors, placed around a motor and a safety lever. The sensors pick up the level of flex in the knee, and send the data to the motor, which adjusts its function accordingly. This ensures a smooth running process, the Tsukuba team reports. The goal is to reduce the amount of stress placed on the muscles themselves by more th... (read more)