Hong Kong start up Enhanced Robotics has secured HK$1,613,192 against a Kickstarter goal of HK$77,842 to bring its Sportsmate 5 exoskeleton for consumers to market.

Weighing only 2.5kg – 85% lighter than traditional exoskeletons – it can provide 6.5 miles of walking assistance on a single charge and in addition, is equipped with an AI-based algorithm that rapidly learns the wearer’s gait and walking behaviour and adjusts accordingly. This both helps prevent injuries and increases stamina by manipulating assistance force.

The Sportsmate 5 is based on multiple high-strength composites and is equipped with a quasi-direct drive technology to provide a maximum torque of 50% of the force generated by the hips.

Using quasi-soft robotic architecture, the waist belt adjusts to any and all body types via an electric inflatable airbag that fills the gap between the exoskeleton and the body to ensure comfort and stability.

Enhanced Robotics envisages its use for both walking assistance in power mode, and for working out and burning more calories in resistance mode.

The Sportsmate 5  is scheduled to be available in May, with a retail price of US$1,358.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1485648715/worlds-first-exoskeleton-for-consumers-sportsmate5