Hyundai Robotic Exoskeleton: A new hope for Paraplegics [VIDEO]
It can't be used to fight off villains but it can give the wearer extra strength that it will need to be able to lift objects that weighs as much as hundreds of kilograms.
South Korean automaker company Hyundai is no longer limited to just making cars now as they have ventured into developing robots as well. The latest one in their plate is a robotic exoskeleton which they have just unveiled and hoped to eventually become a transportation device. According to a report by Mashable, Hyundai posted in their blog a couple of photos and some information about their new "wearable robot."
It's said to be inspired by Marvel's robotic superhero Iron Man, although it's apparent that it appears nothing like it. With its bulky size and blue design, the mechanical device looks like it belongs more to Sigourney Weaver's getup in "Aliens." As for the function and purpose, Hyundai detailed that the exoskeleton is made for commercial use.
It can't be used to fight off villains but it can give the wearer extra strength that it will need to be able to lift objects that weighs as much as hundreds of kilograms. It will be very helpful in different industries that require transporting, moving and lifting. Aside from the extra strength, the robot can also be useful in factories, in military and in physical rehabilitation.
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Hyundai is claiming that their new development is made to help paraplegics walk again. If further developed, this will greatly change treatment and rehabilitation plans for those who thought that they will never be able to walk again. Moreover, it helps the elderly become more mobile and allow them to stand for a longer time.
It's not clearly defined in the blog post but Gizmodo noted that the new exoskeleton robot is an upgraded version H-LEX suit that was revealed by Hyundai last year. The predecessor is also said to be more lightweight compared to the new one but both have near-identical functionality specifically in the area of physical rehabilitation.
As of the current, there is no specific date yet on when the exoskeleton robot might be launched, but Hyundai will need to make it work as other companies such as Panasonic are also developing similar suits for factory workers, which means the competition is on.
