Articles tagged with "exoskeleton"
China’s wearable suit trains humanoid robots with high accuracy
Researchers at China’s National University of Defense Technology, in collaboration with Midea Group, have developed HumanoidExo, a wearable suit system designed to train humanoid robots with high accuracy by capturing real-time human motion. Unlike traditional training methods that rely on videos and simulations—often causing robots to lose balance—HumanoidExo uses motion sensors and a LiDAR scanner to track seven arm joints and body movements, providing robots with precise, real-world data. The system’s AI component, HumanoidExo-VLA, combines a Vision-Language-Action model to interpret human tasks and a reinforcement learning controller to maintain robot balance during learning. Testing on the Unitree G1 humanoid robot demonstrated significant improvements: after training with data from five teleoperated and 195 exoskeleton-recorded sessions, the robot’s success rate on a pick-and-place task rose from 5% to nearly 80%, approaching the performance level of 200 human demonstrations. The robot also learned to walk effectively
robothumanoid-robotswearable-suitmotion-captureAI-trainingreinforcement-learningexoskeletonBudget exoskeleton delivers muscle-like VR feedback for $400
Kinethreads is an innovative, budget-friendly exoskeleton suit designed to deliver realistic muscle-like feedback for virtual reality (VR) experiences and movement assistance at a fraction of traditional costs. Priced under $500, the lightweight suit uses nylon threads threaded through fabric channels connected to compact motors that act as synthetic tendons, tightening to guide muscles and stabilize joints. A Raspberry Pi runs the system, coordinating motor actions via Python scripts. Initially developed for arm support, the design expanded to include leg stabilization with motors housed in a belt pack powered by a lithium-polymer battery, enabling two hours of active use. Vibration motors provide additional haptic feedback, enhancing the user's perception of assistance and improving natural control over time. The suit weighs less than five kilograms and can be donned in under 30 seconds, delivering up to 120 newtons of force and vibrotactile feedback at frequencies up to 200 hertz. Ten motorized reels on a vest create tension interpreted by the body as weight
robotexoskeletonhaptic-feedbackwearable-technologyvirtual-realitymuscle-assistancerehabilitation-technologyChina's cyborg battle suit gives soldiers drone-slinging superpower
China’s Kestrel Defense has unveiled a prototype powered exoskeleton battle suit designed to enhance soldiers’ endurance, mobility, and situational awareness, particularly for drone operators, artillery units, and reconnaissance teams. The suit features mechanical leg supports to reduce fatigue during prolonged crouching or kneeling, a modular backpack housing power and control systems, and articulated shoulder arms for upper-body support. A key innovation is an integrated compact drone-launching system that enables soldiers to deploy and control small quadcopter drones in the field for short-range surveillance and reconnaissance, especially in urban environments. The soldier’s helmet includes a head-mounted augmented reality visor that can display real-time drone feeds, maps, night and thermal vision, and potentially allow interaction via gesture, eye, or voice commands. Additional digital tools such as wrist-mounted screens, health monitors, navigation aids, and encrypted communications are also integrated. Although detailed technical specifications have not been released, the suit reflects a broader global military trend toward combining robotics, wearable computing,
robotexoskeletondronesmilitary-technologywearable-roboticsaugmented-realitydrone-control-systemsNAU researchers release open-source exoskeleton framework - The Robot Report
Researchers at Northern Arizona University (NAU), led by associate professor Zach Lerner’s Biomechatronics Lab, have developed and released OpenExo, a comprehensive open-source robotic exoskeleton framework. This framework aims to lower the barriers to entry in exoskeleton development by providing free access to design files, code, and step-by-step building instructions for single- or multi-joint exoskeletons. OpenExo addresses the high costs, complexity, and interdisciplinary challenges involved in creating effective biomechanical exoskeletons, which traditionally require extensive trial, error, and collaboration across engineering, computer science, and physiology fields. Lerner’s team has a proven track record of applying exoskeleton technology to help children with cerebral palsy and patients with gait disorders, securing millions in grant funding and launching a spin-off company that brought a robotic ankle device to market. The lab has also been awarded nine patents related to exoskeleton development. By making OpenExo openly accessible, the
robotexoskeletonbiomechanicsrehabilitation-technologyopen-source-roboticswearable-roboticsassistive-technologyWandercraft raises $75M to scale exoskeletons, humanoids
Wandercraft, a French robotics company, has secured $75 million in Series D funding to advance the commercialization and scaling of its innovative exoskeleton and humanoid robot technologies. The funding will support the launch of Eve, a self-balancing personal exoskeleton designed to provide upright motion and walking independence for individuals with severe mobility impairments, with commercialization targeted as early as 2026. Additionally, Wandercraft aims to expand clinical adoption of its rehabilitation system Atalante X and develop Calvin-40, an industrial-grade humanoid robot intended for physically demanding tasks. The company’s technology leverages AI refined through extensive simulations and real-world use, enhancing natural walking motion and mobility for users. Wandercraft is conducting clinical trials for Eve at the James J. Peters VA Medical Center in New York and will soon start another at the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in New Jersey, focusing on safety and effectiveness for spinal cord injury patients. A notable milestone was achieved when Kevin Piette
roboticsexoskeletonhumanoid-robotsAI-powered-roboticsrehabilitation-technologymobility-aidsindustrial-robotsWandercraft unveils Calvin, new industrial humanoid, and Renault partnership - The Robot Report
Wandercraft, a French robotics company founded in 2012 with a mission to aid people with severe mobility impairments, has unveiled its first humanoid robot named Calvin. Developed in just 40 days using technology from its exoskeleton products, Calvin is designed primarily for industrial applications. This launch coincides with Renault Group’s minority investment in Wandercraft, aimed at advancing Calvin as a next-generation industrial robot to alleviate workers from physically demanding tasks, improve ergonomics, and boost productivity. Renault will also support commercialization efforts by leveraging its expertise in cost reduction and scaling, facilitating broader market access for Wandercraft’s robotics, including its new exoskeleton, Eve. Wandercraft’s flagship product, the Atalante X exoskeleton, is a self-stabilizing device used in nearly 100 rehabilitation centers worldwide, enabling patients with spinal cord injuries and stroke to walk and relearn natural motion. It features ActiveBalance mode and 12 degrees of freedom for hips, knees, and ankles, offering benefits for both patients and therapists. The device has FDA clearance and CE marking for various conditions. Building on this success, Wandercraft recently introduced a Personal Exoskeleton prototype designed for everyday use in home and community settings, currently undergoing clinical trials. This system also features a fully powered lower body and dynamic walking control, aiming to enhance personal mobility outside clinical environments.
roboticshumanoid-robotexoskeletonindustrial-automationmobility-assistancerehabilitation-technologyRenault-partnershipNVIDIA accepts Ekso Bionics into its Connect program - The Robot Report
robotexoskeletonmobilityartificial-intelligencerehabilitationhuman-enhancementmedical-technology