South Korean researchers have created a lightweight wearable robot designed to approach paraplegic users, attach itself, and enable them to walk, navigate obstacles, and climb stairs. The Exoskeleton Laboratory team at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) aims to develop a robot that seamlessly integrates into the everyday lives of people with disabilities.

Kim Seung-hwan, a paraplegic and member of the KAIST team, demonstrated the prototype, which allowed him to walk at a speed of 3.2 kph (2 mph), ascend a flight of stairs, and take sideways steps to slide onto a bench.

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"It can approach me wherever I am, even when I'm sitting in a wheelchair, and be worn to help me stand, which is one of its most distinctive features," Kim said. The powered exoskeleton, named WalkON Suit F1, is made from aluminium and titanium, weighing 50 kg (110 lbs), and is powered by 12 electronic motors that replicate human joint movements during walking.

Park Jeong-su, another member of the KAIST team, shared that his inspiration came from the movie Iron Man. "After watching Iron Man, I thought it would be amazing if I could help people with a robot in real life," he said. To maintain the user's balance while walking, the robot is equipped with sensors on its soles and upper body that track 1,000 signals per second, predicting the user's intended movements.

The robot's front lenses function as its "eyes," analyzing the environment, assessing stair heights, and detecting obstacles, compensating for the sensory limitations of users with complete paraplegia, Park explained.

Kim also donned the WalkON Suit F1 to claim victory at Cybathlon 2024, securing a gold medal in the exoskeleton category. The event showcased participants with various disabilities demonstrating advanced assistive technology across eight categories.

Reflecting on his personal motivation for the project, Kim shared, "I wanted to tell my son that I too used to be able to walk. I wanted to share a wide range of experiences with him."

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