South Korean team creates a robot that helps paraplegics walk!

A team of researchers from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) in South Korea has introduced an innovative wearable robot designed to help paraplegic individuals regain mobility. The robot, known as the WalkON Suit F1, offers a lightweight and advanced solution to help users walk, navigate obstacles, and even climb stairs, giving them a greater sense of independence.

Weighing only 50 kilograms (110 pounds), the exoskeleton is made from durable aluminium and titanium. It is equipped with 12 electronic motors that replicate natural joint movements, providing a smooth and fluid walking experience. The robot features sensors in its soles and upper body that collect over 1,000 signals per second, allowing it to anticipate the user’s intentions and maintain balance during movement.

One of the most impressive aspects of the WalkON Suit F1 is its ability to approach users when they are sitting in a wheelchair and help them stand up. Kim Seung-hwan, a paraplegic member of the KAIST team who helped develop the suit, demonstrated its capabilities by walking at a speed of 3.2 kph (2 mph), climbing stairs, and even moving sideways to sit on a bench. His demonstration showcased the robot’s potential to greatly improve the independence and mobility of people with disabilities.

The inspiration behind the project came from team member Park Jeong-su, who was motivated by the superhero movie Iron Man. “After watching Iron Man, I thought it would be great if I could help people with a robot in real life,” Park said. The exoskeleton also features advanced “eyes,” which are sensors that analyze the surroundings, measure stair heights, and detect obstacles, making it safer for users with complete paraplegia by compensating for their sensory limitations.

Kim Seung-hwan’s personal connection to the project was evident when he wore the WalkON Suit F1 to win a gold medal at Cybathlon 2024 in the exoskeleton category. The Cybathlon is a competition where participants with various disabilities demonstrate advanced assistive technologies across several categories. Kim expressed a personal desire to share his experiences with his son, saying, “I wanted to tell my son … that I also used to be able to walk.”

The KAIST team envisions the WalkON Suit F1 as a transformative tool for individuals with disabilities, aiming to integrate it into their everyday lives to provide them with more freedom and mobility. This breakthrough marks a significant step forward in assistive technology, offering new hope for those with mobility challenges.

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