South Korean Team Unveils ‘Iron Man’ Exoskeleton to Help Paraplegics Walk

A team from South Korea has created an innovative wearable robot that assists paraplegics in walking, climbing stairs, and navigating obstacles.

This cutting-edge exoskeleton is designed to integrate seamlessly into the daily routines of people with disabilities.

The Exoskeleton Laboratory at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) developed the WalkON Suit F1 robot, which uses 12 electronic motors to mimic the movement of human joints.

Weighing 50kg (110lbs) and composed of lightweight aluminum and titanium, it helps users walk at a speed of 3.2kph (2mph), climb stairs, and move sideways.

Kim Seung-hwan, a paraplegic researcher and member of the KAIST team, demonstrated the robot’s ability to approach him while sitting in a wheelchair, lock onto his body, and assist him in standing. “This feature sets it apart—it can help me stand up no matter where I am,” said Kim.

The WalkON Suit F1 equips sensors on the soles and upper body that track 1,000 signals per second to ensure balance and anticipate the user’s movements.

Its front lenses act as eyes, allowing the robot to analyze the environment, detect obstacles, and identify stairs, aiding users with complete paraplegia.

Kim Seung-hwan’s successful demonstration of the WalkON Suit F1 at Cybathlon 2024, where he won a gold medal in the exoskeleton category, showcases its potential. “I wanted to show my son that I could walk again,” Kim shared, emphasizing the emotional and practical impact of the technology on his life.

This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize mobility assistance for paraplegics, offering a new level of independence and functionality.