In the realm of biomedical engineering and prosthetics, the unveiling of the Omnia bionic leg marks a significant milestone, primarily showcased during the gripping Cybathlon 2024 event. This extraordinary competition not only pitted state-of-the-art assistive technologies against each other but also highlighted the profound capabilities of human resilience and innovation. The Italian team, spearheaded by the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, managed to secure first place in the leg prosthesis race, an accomplishment that underscores the advancements in bionic technology applicable to transfemoral amputees.
At the heart of this achievement is Andrea Modica, a transfemoral amputee who embodies the spirit of determination and innovation. Following a tragic motorcycle accident in 2021, which resulted in the loss of his leg, Modica transformed adversity into a powerful narrative of triumph. With remarkable commitment and passion for sports, he transitioned from rehabilitation to participating in competitive events, eventually becoming the pilot for the Omnia prosthesis during the Cybathlon. His journey reflects the extraordinary intersection of personal resilience and cutting-edge technology, where innovation and human experience converge to redefine mobility.
The Omnia prosthesis stands out as a pioneering lower limb device designed specifically for individuals with transfemoral amputations. With its motorized knee—dubbed Unico—and an innovative ankle known as Armonico, the prosthesis integrates advanced robotics and seamless communication between its components. This pioneering design philosophy allows for real-time adjustments informed by integrated sensors, offering optimal performance tailored to various tasks that users may encounter in everyday life, such as navigating obstacles, descending stairs, and carrying objects.
In a stunning display of skill, Andrea Modica showcased the Omnia prosthesis during the Cybathlon, successfully completing nine out of ten challenging tasks within an impressive timeframe of 2 minutes and 57 seconds. From balancing on a narrow beam while carrying buckets to ascending and descending stairs, Modica’s performance not only highlights his athleticism but also underscores the importance of user feedback in the design and optimization of prosthetic technologies. His insights into the practical applications of the prosthesis have been instrumental in refining its functionality, ensuring that real-world performance is prioritized in its engineering.
Throughout the months leading up to the Cybathlon, Modica engaged in extensive training to hone his skills with the Omnia system. This process included rigorous practice of each task to achieve a level of precision and efficiency that would allow him to navigate the challenges posed by the competition. The collaborative approach between Modica as the pilot and the research team at IIT, led by Matteo Laffranchi, facilitated critical improvements and adjustments that ultimately enhanced the overall performance of the bionic leg. This synergy exemplifies the power of collaboration within the innovation landscape, where user experience significantly shapes technological advancements.
A standout feature of the Omnia system lies in the sophisticated communication established between the Unico and Armonico components. This inter-component dialogue allows for the continuous exchange of data collected from various sensors, enabling automatic adjustments to optimize functionality based on the task at hand. For example, when Modica navigates a slope, the system automatically switches between hydraulic and electric modes, accommodating the differing needs of the user in real-time. Such versatility is a hallmark of modern prosthetic design, emphasizing adaptivity to diverse environments and activities.
The Unico knee is engineered to provide a combination of hydraulic and electric support, delivering an efficient and smooth gait during tasks like walking on level surfaces or descending inclines. The hydraulic mechanism is designed for energy efficiency and quiet operation, ensuring that users can navigate their surroundings discreetly. Conversely, the electric component delivers active assistance, dynamically enhancing the user’s ability to perform activities such as climbing or transitioning from a seated position. The automation of these transitions signifies a leap forward in the integration of technology within prosthetic devices, addressing real-life scenarios faced by amputees.
Equally impressive is the functionality of the Armonico ankle, which boasts innovations such as an elastic foot paired with a unique screw mechanism. This design enhances the user experience by providing support during the initial foot strike while cushioning impacts for comfort and reducing the risk of tripping. Unlike traditional passive ankle prostheses, the Armonico actively modifies the angle of flexion, which improves stability on incline surfaces and promotes a more natural walking motion. The thoughtful engineering behind the Armonico demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the biomechanical principles crucial for developing effective prosthetic solutions.
In addition to these technical innovations, the Omnia prosthesis is designed with user comfort and adaptability in mind. The Unico leg accommodates various body sizes and shapes, supporting users up to 125 kilograms. Moreover, the system is equipped with a battery that lasts for a full day under regular usage, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities without fear of depleting their prosthesis charge. Adjustable software parameters further tailor the device to align with individual activity levels, ensuring that the system responds effectively to each user’s unique lifestyle.
Modica’s contributions extend beyond his performance in the Cybathlon; they delve deep into the design process itself. His perspective as a user was central to the iterative design approach employed by the research team. By sharing his personal experiences and comparing the Omnia with his daily-use prosthesis, Modica played a pivotal role in driving key advancements. His feedback facilitated enhancements in elements such as propulsion and stiffness, demonstrating the value of involving end-users in the research and development phase of prosthetic technology, which can lead to groundbreaking solutions that better meet user needs.
Reflecting on the experience at the Cybathlon, Modica characterized the event as more than just a competition; it was about shaping connections within the prosthetics community. His efforts not only underscored the potential of innovative bionic technologies to enhance mobility but also highlighted the unity and camaraderie among competitors. Such a collective spirit reinforces the transformative impact of technology on individual lives, signifying hope and inspiration for countless others in similar circumstances.
As we look ahead, the development and refinement of prosthetic technologies like the Omnia bionic leg remain critical in enhancing the quality of life for amputees. The collaborative nature of research, driving forward user-centered innovation, will undoubtedly continue to foster advancements that push the boundaries of what is possible in assistive technology. The journey exemplified by Modica and the Italian research team serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating how human ingenuity can triumph over adversity through commitment to innovation and excellence.
The legacy of the Cybathlon 2024 extends beyond competitive accolades; it encapsulates the endless potential inherent in the convergence of technology and empathy. The impact of advancements in prosthetic technology will reverberate through communities, enabling individuals to reclaim autonomy and redefine their physical capabilities, ultimately reminding us of the transformative power of resilience and innovation.
Subject of Research: Not applicable
Article Title: The Omnia bionic leg with semipowered knee and ankle wins the Cybathlon 2024 leg prosthesis race
News Publication Date: 29-Oct-2025
Web References: 10.1126/scirobotics.aeb6485
References: Not applicable
Image Credits: Credit: IIT-Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia/Cybathlon
