Science Takes a Leap Towards Active Aging as Wearable Robot Revolutionizes Mountain Climbing for Seniors

Ever wondered about how elderly people would be able to enjoy the thrills of life by indulging into adventure sports? While their deteriorating bone and muscle health might pose a significant obstacle, the recent developments from Dr. Lee Jongwon is here with some good news. Dr. Jongwon is a renowned member of the Intelligent Robotics Research Centre at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology. His latest invention, MOONWALK-Omni is a modern-day robotic device that can be worn as an accessory, helping the elderly to move freely. 

According to reports, wearing this device will feel like walking on the moon while the wearer will have the leverage to walk in any direction they want. With such a ground-breaking invention doing the rounds, let’s learn everything about the device in detail below. 

AI-powered robotic device aims to promote hiking glory among the aged-enthusiasts

With the advent of MOONWALK-Omni, the idea of commercializing these devices has made a strong case for itself. However, critics have been skeptical about the effectiveness of the same due to bitter experiences from the past. In the past, several robotic walking devices were developed but unfortunately, could not be effectively implemented due to their heavy weight. This is where Dr. Jongwon’s invention steals the deal. MOONWALK-Omni weighs merely 2 kilograms and can easily be put on by an elderly adult without much hand holding. 

The device consists of four highly-efficient, lightweight actutators for providing balance on either side of the hips. This would reportedly help elevate the leg strength of the person wearing it by upto 30%. Moreover, the built in artificial intelligence will automatically assess the wearer’s manner of walking, providing them with customized support. MOONWALK-Omni is also capable of sensing the different types of environments in which the person is walking. Some such examples are stone steps, wooden stairs, rugged terrains, steep slopes and rocky roads. 

Dr. Jongwon seemed ecstatic about the development. He said, “Through the convergence of ultra-lightweight, high-power wearable robot drive technology and personalized artificial intelligence strength support technology, it is expected to be widely used in the fields of daily assistance, rehabilitation, and exercise for the elderly who lack muscle strength due to aging.” Looking at the exciting possibilities of the device, Dr. Jongwon and his team were eager to test the wearable robot by having people participate in a challenge. And guess what? They succeeded! 

Dr. Jongwon creates history by revolutionizing climbing opportunities 

As the team conducted the Burkhansan Mountain Wearable Robot Challenge, the results made them more than happy. The device passed in flying colors in correctly diagnosing every detail of the wearers, thus, providing them a comfortable hiking experience. One such participant, who was jubilant after the experience, stated, “I thought I would have to give up mountain climbing, which I have enjoyed since I was young, but I feel 10 to 20 years younger after climbing the mountain comfortably with the wearable robot.”

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Following the overwhelming success of this device, the team is now looking to build a more stronger robotic device that will not only aid the leg muscles but shall also improve the mobility of hip and knee joints. 

What are your opinions on the story? Do let us know in the comments below. 

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