The Birth of a New Era in Mobility

Korea Advanced Institute of Science (KAIST) is currently developing a groundbreaking technology, that would allow people with physical disabilities to walk again without any additional support needed. Kyoung-Chul Kong’s vision offers an easily detachable exoskeleton for the lower part of the human body. This newfound exso-suit” is poised to change million lives of individuals with mobility impairments. The device empowers users with the paraplegia to stand, walk, and regain independence
The development of the WalkON Suit F1 is a testament to the power of collaboration. By bringing together experts from various fields, including engineering, robotics, and medicine, KAIST and Angel Robotics have been able to create a truly groundbreaking device.

A Decade of Innovation – Road to Commercialization

The journey of the WalkON Suit F1 began in 2015, driven by the vision of Professor Kyoung-Chul Kong and his team at KAIST. Building upon years of research and development, the team has consistently pushed the boundaries of exoskeleton technology.

The first prototype of the WalkON Suit was unveiled in 2016, setting the stage for a groundbreaking journey in exoskeleton technology. as the years progressed, the fourth generation participated in the Cybathlon 2020, showcasing it’s advanced capabilities such as enchanted mobility, intuitive control systems, and improved battery efficiency.
This participation not only demonstrated the suit’s effectiveness in real-wold scenarios but also illustrated it’s potential to assist users in regaining independence.

KAIST has since partnered with Angel Robotics to bring the WalkON Suit F1 to market. The collaboration aims to accelerate the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of this life-changing technology.
Later, in mid 2024, the version F1 was officially launched, marking a significant milestone. The finalized version of the suit offers users a remarkable combination of comfort, support, and functionality, promising to change lives for individuals with mobility challenged and further inspiring innovations in the industry
The culmination of extensive research and development, the WalkON Suit F1 aims not only to achieve competitive success but also to inspire advancements in assistive technologies for individuals with mobility impairment

Key Features and Innovations

This new exoskeleton is a waist-down device that is easily detachable, eliminating the need for external assistance during the donning process. The WalkON Suit F1 is designed to approach the user independently, further simplifying the preparation process and making it accessible for individuals of all ages and abilities. The F1 is also equipped with sophisticated docking technology and can even dock itself automatically onto the user, ensuring secure and comfortable fit. The suit’s technology incorporates Advanced AI algorithms which processes the data received from the built in sensors to maintain balance allowing users to walk with stability and confidence in a variety of terrains, from smooth indoor floors to uneven outdoor surfaces.

The user friendly interface enables seamless control of the suits functions, including speed adjustments and various mobility modes, which cater to the specific needs of the user. Alongside all of that the Walking Suit is also equipped wit a variety of sensors, including cameras, gyroscopes, and accelerometers which provides real-time information about the users movements and surroundings making it SELF BALANCING.

The lightweight construction and modular design make the suit easy to transport and use in various settings, whether in a home environment, rehabilitation centers, or outdoor activities, enhancing the overall quality of life for its users.

The Road to Commercialization

KAIST has partnered with Angel Robotics to bring the WalkON Suit F1 to market. The collaboration aims to accelerate the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of this life-changing technology. The partnership is currently preparing for the next Cybathlon. This prestigious event gathers innovators and researchers from around the globe. For this event the state-of-the-art suit utilizes a combination of lightweight materials. With dedication and a shared vision, Team KAIST is poised to make a significant impact at Cybathlon 2024.

The Impact on Society

The WalkON Suit F1 has the potential to transform the lives of millions of people with mobility impairments. By providing them with the ability to walk independently, the suit can significantly improve their quality of life, social interactions, and overall well-being. Additionally, the technology behind the Suit can be applied to other areas, such as industrial automation and disaster response.

The Future of Exoskeletons