South Korean researchers have designed a sophisticated wearable robot that enables paraplegic individuals to walk, navigate obstacles, and ascend stairs. The Exoskeleton Laboratory at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) aims to incorporate this technology seamlessly into the lives of those with disabilities.
Kim Seung-hwan, a paraplegic member of the KAIST team, showcased the prototype’s capabilities. It allowed him to walk at 3.2kph, climb stairs, and sidestep into a bench. Kim highlighted the robot’s unique feature of approaching and assisting users from any location, including those seated in a wheelchair.
Named the WalkON Suit F1, this powered exoskeleton comprises aluminium and titanium and weighs 50kg. It includes 12 electronic motors that mimic human joint movements during walking.
Inspired by the film “Iron Man,” team member Park Jeong-su envisioned creating a helpful robot. The device features sole and upper body sensors that monitor 1,000 signals per second to predict and adjust to the user’s movements. Additionally, frontal lenses function as robotic eyes, scanning the environment to assess stair heights and detect obstacles, compensating for the sensory limitations of users with complete paraplegia.
Kim Seung-hwan earned a gold medal at Cybathlon 2024 while wearing the WalkON Suit F1, showcasing the device among various assistive technologies.
