Advances in technology are continually reshaping the landscape of mobility aids, especially for people with disabilities.
Among these innovations, the WalkON Suit F1, developed by KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology), stands out as a breakthrough solution for paraplegic patients.
Let’s take a closer look at the features, development, and impact of this remarkable wearable robot.
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What’s special about this suit?
Imagine an exoskeleton that not only helps you walk, but also comes to you. Yes, WalkON Suite F1 can actually walk across to people in wheelchairs. This amazing technology solves a major problem faced by other exoskeletons. Most exoskeletons require helpers to lift and strap the user out of the wheelchair. But what about the WalkON Suit F1? It features a clever front docking system that allows you to attach it while sitting in your wheelchair. Talk about independence.
What is artificial intelligence (AI)?
This suit is equipped with a system that “actively controls the center of gravity against gravity” to prevent falls when standing up. The WalkON Suit F1 is tailored to allow you to use both hands while standing upright, allowing you to take short walks without the need for a cane.
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Technical specifications of the exoskeleton
For those who love small details, let us explain in detail what the WalkON Suit F1 is all about. This exoskeleton is packed with cutting-edge technology that sets it apart from its predecessors.
First, it has an excellent balance control system that actively manages the center of weight, ensuring you don’t tip over when you stand up. This is a big game changer for stability and user confidence.
The team has also made significant advances in motor technology, doubling the power density of the motor compared to previous versions. This means delivering more power in a compact package, which is very important for wearable devices.
But innovation doesn’t stop there. The WalkON Suit F1 incorporates AI integration through an onboard neural network application, making the suit more adaptable to different users and situations.
And let’s not forget about the visual recognition system that allows the suit to find and avoid obstacles. This gives users even more security and independence.
The team has made significant advances in the component. All core components such as motors, reducers, motor drivers, and main circuits are domestically produced. The motor’s output density has been doubled, and the motor driver’s control performance is approximately three times better than the best overseas technology. Now, that’s what I call progress.
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AI-powered exoskeleton reduces load and improves performance
Test the exoskeleton
Now you may be asking, “How do I know this actually works?” Now, let’s talk about Cybathlon. It’s like the Olympics for cyborgs, where assistive technology goes head-to-head.
At the 2024 Cybathlon, WalkON Suite F1 not only participated, but won. The team’s pilot, Kim Seung-hwan, completed all the challenges in just 6 minutes and 41 seconds, securing first place. We’re talking about tasks like siding between narrow chairs, moving boxes, and even preparing meals in the kitchen, all without crutches.
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The brain behind the exoskeleton
Shout out to Professor Kyung-chul Kong of the KAIST Department of Mechanical Engineering. This person has been working on exoskeleton research since around 2015. The first WalkON suit came out in 2016, and by 2020, the WalkON suit 4.0 was able to walk at speeds of 1.98 miles per hour. It’s practically the equivalent of jogging an exoskeleton.
Cart important points
The WalkON Suit F1 aims to give people with paraplegia more independence and mobility. As Professor Kong puts it, the suit is “the culmination of wearable robot technology for people with disabilities.” This is setting a new standard across the industry, and I personally can’t wait to see where this technology goes next. who knows? Perhaps in a few years these suits will be running around our streets, helping people live life to the fullest.
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What do you think about how innovations like the WalkON Suit F1 can change the lives of people with disabilities? And what advances do you hope to see in assistive technology in the future? Please let us know by email. Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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