Robotics provider Bionik Laboratories Corp has entered into a licensing option agreement with The University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas), with respect to certain novel robotics and control systems technologies developed at UT Dallas.
The agreement establishes a 1-year period in which Bionik can evaluate these technologies, and grants to Bionik an exclusive option to negotiate a worldwide license under certain patent rights owned by UT Dallas, as well as an option to negotiate a non-exclusive license under certain technology rights owned by UT Dallas. Bionik is evaluating these technologies to determine whether they can be used to enhance the Company’s planned assistive product line expansion, according to a media release from Toronto-based Bionik Labs.
“Management is extremely pleased to forge this strategic relationship with the University of Texas at Dallas,” says Michal Prywata, co-founder, chief technology officer, and director of Bionik, in the release.
“We entered into this option agreement as our preliminary investigation has indicated that this infusion of technology and innovation will provide a strong, competitive advantage to our current technology platform, and that the Company can extend its exoskeleton robotic platform and improve our existing technology,” he adds.
Dr Robert Gregg IV and his two colleagues, Ge Lv and Hanqi Zhu, developed the technology within their robotics lab at UT Dallas. The technology focuses on the control mechanisms of human locomotion with applications to wearable and autonomous robots. Gregg is an assistant professor of bioengineering and mechanical engineering, and the director of the Locomotor Control Systems Laboratory at UT Dallas and the UT Southwestern Medical Center.
“We are extremely pleased to work with an innovative company such as Bionik Laboratories so that the results of our research can benefit the most people,” Gregg states, per the release. “These innovations in control systems and novel actuation technologies greatly improve robotic performance and will ultimately produce better mobility for a larger patient population.
“During Bionik’s option period and on execution of the final license agreement, we will work closely with Bionik to advance the technology that will allow them to enhance and commercialize their assistive robotics solution and improve quality of life for persons with these disabilities,” he continues.
[Source: Bionik Laboratories Corp]
