Exoskeletons: The Future of Mobility or Just a Gimmick?
I recently embarked on a quest at CES, the renowned consumer electronics show, to try out every exoskeleton I could get my hands on. These devices promised to revolutionize the way we move, offering enhanced mobility and endurance. But do they live up to the hype? Let's dive in and explore the world of exoskeletons, from my hands-on experience to the potential they hold for the future.
The Exoskeleton Experience: A Personal Journey
As I navigated the bustling CES halls, exoskeletons kept catching my eye. From marketing videos showcasing mountain sprints to the promise of fatigue-free walking, I was intrigued. So, I set out to test these devices, trying out six exoskeletons in total, each targeting different joints - hips, knees, and ankles.
My journey began with the Best of CES awards, where I helped judge "age tech" devices. Exoskeletons, designed to assist with mobility, were a potential contender. However, I had my doubts about their safety, reliability, and convenience for everyday use.
Fitness Tech or Medical Marvel?
Many exoskeleton companies market their products as fitness tech, targeting hikers and athletes. But I wondered, could these devices also benefit those with mobility issues due to age or health conditions? This question lingered as I tested each exoskeleton, ranking them from least to most impressive.
Unimpressive: WiRobotics WIM-S
The WiRobotics WIM-S, with its minimalist design, left me underwhelmed. Despite its sleek profile, the device failed to provide the promised boost to my walking and stepping. It felt more like a gentle nudge than the powerful assistance I had anticipated.
Feeling the Assist: Sumbu
Sumbu's exoskeleton, with its three models - S3, S3 Pro, and S3 Ultra - offered a noticeable assist. I could feel the device aiding my leg movements, especially when jogging in place. The exoskeleton made climbing stairs feel effortless, even when taking them two at a time.
Helping Me Run: Ascentiz
Ascentiz's modular exoskeleton impressed with its smooth and natural feel. The hip module, in particular, provided just the right power assist during each stride. This exoskeleton is currently seeking funding through Kickstarter, with prices ranging from $1,499 to $1,999, depending on the model.
Sprinting Like a Pro: Hypershell X Ultra
Borrowing my colleague's Hypershell X Ultra, I was amazed at how seamlessly it assisted my movements. From step-ups to sprints, the exoskeleton kept up without any missteps. With a price tag of $1,999, Hypershell claims to be the first consumer outdoor exoskeleton on the market.
Knee Relief: Skip Mo/Go
The Skip Mo/Go exoskeleton, built into a pair of pants, offered a unique knee-based assist. Designed to ease knee pain and surgery recovery, it provided a gentle deceleration when descending stairs. However, running felt awkward, and the cuffs inside the pants caused discomfort.
A Spring in My Step: Dephy's Sidekick
Dephy's Sidekick, a two-part exoskeleton with a shoe and a robotic arm, felt the most comfortable and well-designed. It assisted my calf muscles, helping me walk with ease. The device's programming ensured it only assisted forward movement, stopping when detecting unexpected steps.
The Verdict: Are Exoskeletons Worth It?
After trying out these exoskeletons, I was impressed by their functionality. However, the high cost - ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 - raises questions about their accessibility and value. Could they be more useful in a rental market for specific activities like hiking or theme park visits?
Medical vs. Consumer Exoskeletons
To gain a better understanding, I spoke with Amanda Clark, director of Good Shepherd Creates. Clark, a physical therapist, has been working with exoskeletons in a medical setting for over a decade. She explained the rigorous process of getting an exoskeleton approved as a medical device, which includes FDA approval similar to drugs.
Medical exoskeletons, like the Ekso Bionics robotic suit, can help people walk who may not have been able to before. However, the cost is a significant barrier, with models used in rehab facilities costing around $250,000, plus annual maintenance fees.
The Future of Exoskeletons
As a technology with immense potential, exoskeletons could become more accessible and worthwhile for those with mobility issues. Clark highlighted the progress made in making these devices smaller and lighter, allowing them to be worn outside the clinic. However, the challenge remains in creating user-friendly, slim-profile devices at an affordable price point.
In conclusion, while exoskeletons show promise, they still have a way to go before becoming widely accessible and beneficial. As a technology enthusiast, I'm excited to see the advancements and improvements that the future holds for these devices. What do you think? Are exoskeletons the future of mobility, or just a passing fad? Share your thoughts in the comments!
