World-first portable robotic exoskeleton slashes diver air use by 22%

Chinese researchers from Peking University, led by Professor Wang Qining, have developed the world’s first portable underwater robotic exoskeleton designed to assist divers by supporting knee movement during swimming. This bilateral cable-driven device provides real-time assistive torque specifically for the flutter kick, the main propulsion method in finned diving. Equipped with advanced motion sensors and force-based control, the exoskeleton integrates seamlessly with natural diver movements, reducing muscle strain and improving energy efficiency underwater. Testing with six experienced divers demonstrated that using the exoskeleton reduced air consumption by 22.7%, while also decreasing quadriceps and calf muscle activation by approximately 20%, indicating a significant reduction in physical effort. This innovation addresses the unique challenges of underwater mobility, where water resistance greatly increases energy demands compared to terrestrial movement. The exoskeleton’s ability to lower physical burden and oxygen use could extend dive duration, enhance safety, and reduce fatigue, with potential applications in marine research, underwater construction, and diver training. The research,