Advanced Wearable Robot Offers Mobility To Paraplegic Users

South Korean researchers have developed an advanced wearable robot that offers paraplegic users the ability to walk, climb stairs, and navigate obstacles.

Named the WalkON Suit, the device was designed by the Exoskeleton Laboratory at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) to address the mobility challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

Kim Seung-hwan, a paraplegic member of the KAIST team, showcased the robot’s capabilities, demonstrating how it allowed him to walk at 3.2 kph (2 mph), climb a flight of stairs, and sidestep onto a bench, as reported by Reuters.

“It can approach me wherever I am, even when I’m sitting in a wheelchair, and be worn to help me stand up, which is one of its most distinct features,” Kim explained to Reuters.

The exoskeleton weighs 50 kg (110 lb) and is constructed from aluminum and titanium. Powered by 12 electronic motors, it mimics human joint movements to enable walking and other tasks.

It also employs a sophisticated balance control system with sensors that measure posture and analyze ground forces, processing 1,000 signals per second to anticipate and adjust to the user’s movements.

The robot’s design incorporates high-power actuators and friction compensation systems, allowing it to produce the necessary force for movement while maintaining control.

Additionally, a built-in learning program adapts the robot’s functions to each user’s walking style. According to the researchers, after about 20 uses, the device creates a customized joint trajectory, providing a smoother and more efficient walking experience.

Park Jeong-su, a team member at KAIST, shared that his inspiration for the project came from the movie Iron Man. “ I thought it would be great if I can help people with a robot in real life,” he said to Reuters.

The robot also features an interface that allows users to control its functions and monitor its status via a back-panel display.

Assistants can adjust its settings, while users interact with the device through intuitive control buttons. Additional technologies include muscle-imitating actuators for enhanced balance and ultra-thin actuators for efficient force production.

The WalkON Suit series has already garnered international attention. Earlier versions were showcased at the Cybathlon competition in Switzerland in 2016 and the UAE AI & Robotics for Good competition in 2017.

Each iteration has been refined to meet the distinct needs of individuals with complete or partial paralysis, reflecting ongoing advancements in wearable robotics. As researchers continue to refine the exoskeleton, the focus remains on creating a device that seamlessly integrates into daily life, providing independence and mobility for those who rely on it.