Researchers at South Korea’s KAIST have unveiled the WalkON Suit F1, a lightweight exoskeleton designed to empower paraplegic users by enabling them to walk, climb stairs, and navigate obstacles. Created by the Exoskeleton Laboratory team, the robot integrates seamlessly into users’ lives.
Kim Seung-hwan, a paraplegic team member, demonstrated the suit’s capabilities, showcasing its ability to help him walk at 3.2 kph (2 mph), climb stairs, and slide onto a bench. “It can approach me wherever I am and help me stand up, which is one of its most distinct features,” Kim said.
Weighing 50 kg (110 lb), the WalkON Suit F1 is made from aluminium and titanium and powered by 12 electronic motors that mimic human joint movements. Equipped with sensors on its soles and upper body, the suit monitors 1,000 signals per second to maintain balance and anticipate the user’s actions. Lenses on the robot act as “eyes,” analyzing surroundings, detecting obstacles, and identifying stair heights to enhance mobility.
Inspired by the movie Iron Man, team member Park Jeong-su said, “I thought it would be great to help people with a robot in real life.”
Kim, who won gold in the exoskeleton category at Cybathlon 2024, shared his motivation: “I wanted to tell my son I used to walk and share diverse experiences with him.”
The team’s goal is to integrate the robot into everyday life for individuals with disabilities.
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