Robotic legs to the rescue: new technology used in Table Mountain rescue
A recent Table Mountain rescue on Platteklip Gorge saw Wilderness Search And Rescue use a powered exoskeleton to help an exhausted hiker walk safely off the mountain, the first reported use of the technology in a South African rescue.
Saturday afternoon had started like many others on Table Mountain, with a family setting out together to hike Platteklip Gorge, one of the mountain's best-known routes.
By the time they reached the top, however, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway had closed for the day. With daylight fading and a long descent ahead of them, the family called Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) on 021 937 0300 to let them know they were heading down and might need assistance.
It was a good decision, one that would make it much easier for rescuers to help them.
A small WSAR team, including a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedic, headed up Platteklip Gorge to meet the family.
After a long day of hiking, the family's 47-year-old mother was exhausted and struggling to continue. That's when the rescue team turned to a rather unusual new piece of equipment: a Hypershell powered exoskeleton.
How does the Hypershell exoskeleton work?
The lightweight, battery-powered device is worn around the hips and legs and is designed to work with the wearer's natural movement.
Sensors detect movement and electric motors provide additional assistance as the person walks, effectively reducing some of the effort required with each step.
Hypershell has developed its wearable exoskeleton technology primarily to help people move more easily outdoors, including over challenging terrain. The company also identifies rescue operations as one potential application for the technology.
For a mountain rescue team, that's an interesting possibility.
In some situations, a hiker is exhausted but still capable of walking. Helping that person continue under their own power could give rescuers another option alongside more conventional rescue techniques.
A South African first on Platteklip Gorge
Once the Hypershell exoskeleton had been fitted to the hiker, WSAR reported that her steps became steadier and her confidence improved.
With the rescue team accompanying her, she was able to continue walking down Platteklip Gorge rather than being carried off the mountain.
The Table Mountain rescue was completed shortly after 11pm, with the entire family safely off the mountain.
According to Wilderness Search And Rescue, it was the first reported use of an exoskeleton during a rescue in South Africa.
WSAR is now exploring what the technology could mean for future wilderness rescue operations.
The most important piece of rescue equipment? Your phone
As fascinating as the technology is, there's another part of this story that's particularly important for anyone planning to hike Table Mountain.
The family called for help early.
They recognised that they might have difficulty getting safely off the mountain and contacted WSAR before tiredness and darkness turned the situation into a more serious emergency.
That gave the rescue team time to reach them and provide the right assistance when it was needed.
It's a useful reminder that asking for help early isn't overreacting.
How to stay safe hiking on Table Mountain
Table Mountain is an extraordinary place to hike, but conditions can change quickly and even experienced walkers can find themselves in difficulty.
Before setting out, check the weather and your planned route, allow plenty of daylight, and if you're relying on the cableway for your return journey, check its operating times.
Carry enough water, food, warm clothing and a torch or headlamp even if you're not planning to be out after dark.
If you're unfamiliar with the mountain, there are also good reasons to consider hiking with an experienced registered guide.
And put the Wilderness Search And Rescue emergency number into your phone before you leave:
021 937 0300
Hopefully you'll never need it. But as this family discovered, knowing when to make that call can make all the difference.
Cape Town Hiking guide Tim Lundy is a member of Wilderness Search And Rescue. He was not involved in this particular rescue.
Photos: James Dijzel and David Nel / Wilderness Search And Rescue.
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