Imagine wearing shorts that make walking easier, as if you've lost 20 pounds in an instant. It sounds too good to be true. So, get ready to have your mind blown! Scientists at the Technical University of Munich have devised something that could be a game-changer for anyone who has ever wished walking could be a little easier.
They call it the WalkON system. These are high-tech shorts that are different from your average gym wear. These bad guys reduce the energy needed for a walk or jog by up to 18%. Whether you're a spring chicken or in your golden years, these shorts can be a game-changer, especially if stairs become your nemesis or you get tired from a long walk.
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Woman wearing the WalkON system (Technical University of Munich) (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
How robot shorts work
The WalkON system combines sensors, artificial tendons, and smart motors to enhance natural walking motion. It starts with advanced sensors embedded in the shorts that continuously monitor stress on the tendons. These sensors are highly accurate and detect subtle changes in movement, such as walking speed or hip angle.
Connected to these sensors are two thin artificial tendons that extend from the thighs to a specially designed waist belt. These tendons play an important role in how the system assists you. When you start walking, the shorts analyze your walking pattern and also detect the transition from standing to walking. As each leg enters its “swing phase”, the system knows exactly when to kick in.
At the right moment, a small but powerful motor kicks in and gently pulls on the artificial tendon. This movement helps lift your thighs, reducing the force required on your hip flexors and making the movement much easier. What's really impressive is how adaptable WalkON is. Whether you're taking a leisurely walk or a brisk jog, the system adjusts the level of assistance based on your speed and leg weight. All of this happens seamlessly, so you experience natural movement enhancement rather than being pushed and pulled by a machine.
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A man wearing the WalkON system (Technical University of Munich) (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
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Advantages of robot walking shorts
The WalkON system significantly reduces energy consumption by 18% for young people walking uphill. Elderly people who walk on level ground use 10% less energy. This reduction in energy expenditure equates to the feeling of instantly losing 22 pounds or 13 pounds, respectively. This system allows you to walk slowly or jog, adding variety to your movements. Test participants reported high satisfaction with the device, giving it an average rating of 6 out of 7 for its ability to assist while maintaining a sense of control.
WalkON system (Technical University of Munich) (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
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Target group
The WalkON system is useful for anyone looking to improve their mobility. However, it holds particular promise for older adults who may be experiencing declines in physical performance. Additionally, people who are debilitated by illness can greatly benefit from using WalkON to increase their mobility and independence. Additionally, the device is designed for people who want to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of users.
Woman wearing the WalkON system (Technical University of Munich) (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
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Comparison with other exoskeletons
Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, WalkON's soft and flexible design offers several advantages over more cumbersome exoskeletons. Traditional exoskeletons often have rigid frames that are difficult and time-consuming to install, limiting their practicality for everyday use.
In contrast, WalkON's soft robot shorts are quick and easy to put on, just like regular clothing, and are much more than a mechanical device. Lead researcher Professor Lorenzia Macia likens WalkON to an electric bicycle for walking. This analogy highlights the system's ability to effortlessly enhance natural movement, making mobility more accessible and appealing to a wide range of users. WalkON's lightweight, tendon-driven design allows for a more natural range of motion, adapting to your movements rather than restricting them.
Additionally, the compact and unobtrusive nature of WalkON addresses a common concern with exoskeletons: social acceptability. Its design allows it to be worn discreetly under regular clothing, potentially increasing user comfort in social situations. This feature, combined with its efficiency in reducing metabolic costs, positions WalkON as a more practical solution for everyday use compared to larger exoskeleton systems.
Woman wearing the WalkON system (Technical University of Munich) (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Availability and cost
Given the current stage of development and testing, WalkON could become available within the next three to five years, pending further research and regulatory approval.
We don't know the exact price yet, but we can compare it to other assistive technologies. Exoskeletons today can cost anywhere from $40,000 to more than $100,000. However, given that WalkON's design is simpler and intended for widespread use, it could be more affordable, likely in the $5,000 to $15,000 range when it first hits the market. As with many technologies, prices are likely to decline over time as production scales up.
Woman wearing the WalkON system (Technical University of Munich) (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Cart important points
The potential of the WalkON system to improve mobility for people of all ages, especially the elderly and those with health problems, is enormous. By making movement easier and more efficient, WalkON promotes a more active lifestyle and has the potential to improve the overall health and quality of life for many individuals. Although questions remain regarding availability and cost, the development of WalkON is a promising sign that we are moving towards more accessible and user-friendly mobility assistance solutions.
If you could design your own mobility aid, what features and functionality would you include? and why? Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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