Exoskeleton

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a lightweight, wearable textile exomuscle that uses sensors embedded in its fabric to detect a user's movement intentions and chip in extra force as needed. Initial tests show a significant boost in endurance.

It was back in 2014 that we first heard about the Chairless Chair, a lower-body exoskeleton that doesn't impede walking, but that also supports the wearer when they go into a sitting position. Well, there's now a lighter, comfier model.

When someone has been left paralyzed by a stroke or brain injury, much of their recovery involves physically guiding the affected limb though the lost motion, so their brain can relearn it. A new exoskeleton does exactly that for the hand.

Three years ago, we heard about an assistive upper-body exoskeleton called the Paexo Shoulder. Its German manufacturer, Ottobock, has announced an updated model, now going by the name of the Ottobock Shoulder.

Last year, German Bionic revealed a fourth generation of its Cray X exoskeleton, keeping things light by employing a carbon fiber frame. Now the 5th gen has been announced, which is reported to be the first of its kind to support two body regions.

Lower-body exoskeletons don't merely thrust the wearer's legs forward – they move them based on the user's existing gait. A team at Harvard University has now developed what is claimed to be a better method of gauging that gait, utilizing ultrasound.

While there are now several powered exoskeletons designed for use by specific groups, there are few if any that are aimed at the general public. Hong Kong-based Enhanced Robotics is out to change that, with its Sportsmate 5.

When you're carrying a heavy load, it can be pretty difficult walking across flat ground, let alone climbing stairs. The Koma 1.5 is designed to help, by alternately acting as a powered buggy or a two-legged lower-body exoskeleton.

Engineers at Stanford University are developing an ankle exoskeleton to help people walk faster. That may sound like a weird novelty gadget, but it's designed for the serious purpose of helping those whose gait is slowing down due to age or infirmity.

Robotic exoskeletons are already making a huge difference to people who are otherwise unable to walk, but the things do still have some limitations. Researchers are now seeking to address those problems, using onboard cameras and AI.

It's huge, it's clunky, it's not pretty, but Marcel Reese claims his VR exoskeleton is "the first working system for realistic walking in VR with force feedback and balance feedback." It tracks your movement, and lets the virtual world push back.

Last year, we got our first look at an ambitious take on high-tech exoskeletons in the Guardian XO from Sarcos Robotics, which has just gathered US$40 million in new funding to bring its full-bodied suit to market in 2021.