‘Iron Man’ Robot Developed by South Korean Team to Enable Paraplegics to Walk

The WalkON Suit F1, a revolutionary exoskeleton robot developed by the Exoskeleton Laboratory at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), is changing the lives of paraplegics. This wearable robot empowers individuals with disabilities to walk, climb stairs, and navigate obstacles with ease. The goal is to create a device that integrates smoothly into the daily lives of those with physical limitations, offering increased independence.

Kim Seung-hwan, a paraplegic team member at KAIST, demonstrated the robot’s capabilities, walking at 3.2 kph (2 mph). One of the most remarkable features of the WalkON Suit F1 is its ability to approach a seated user, attach itself, and assist in standing up. This design offers distinct advantages over traditional mobility aids.

Weighing 50 kg (110 lb), the WalkON Suit F1 is powered by 12 electronic motors, which simulate the natural movements of human joints. Advanced sensors located in the robot’s soles and upper body monitor 1,000 signals per second to help predict and stabilize the user’s movements, ensuring safe and steady walking.

Park Jeong-su, another member of the KAIST team, was inspired by the “Iron Man” movie to help those with disabilities in the real world. The robot’s front lenses function as “eyes,” analyzing the environment, detecting obstacles, and calculating the height of stairs, providing a much-needed sensory advantage for users with complete paraplegia.

At Cybathlon 2024, Kim Seung-hwan, wearing the WalkON Suit F1, won the gold medal in the exoskeleton category, impressively demonstrating its functionality. Kim expressed his desire to inspire his son, saying, “I wanted to tell him that I used to walk. I wanted to share my experiences with him.”

The WalkON Suit F1 marks a significant breakthrough in assistive technology, promising to enhance mobility and independence for paraplegic individuals. As this technology evolves, it holds the potential to bring greater freedom to people with disabilities worldwide.