Scientists develop ‘soft’ exoskeleton that makes wearer stronger

Scientists at Harvard University are going to develop a ‘soft’ exoskeleton that can be worn under clothing. The wearer can lift heavier things with the exoskeleton and has more stamina when walking.

Harvard University reports that it has received a research budget of 2.9 million dollars, converted 2.2 million euros, from Darpa, the research arm of the US Department of Defense. An exoskeleton must be further developed with the money; an exoskeleton is an external skeleton with which the wearer is supported. The most striking thing about the Harvard project is the fact that it involves a ‘soft’ exoskeleton. According to the scientists, it can be worn under clothing, while exoskeletons are usually made of hard material, are heavier, and therefore uncomfortable to wear.

The exoskeleton developed by Harvard has many sensors that measure movements of the wearer. By analyzing the input, the exoskeleton can predict which movements are made and how the suit should provide support. In this way the wearer becomes ‘stronger’ and he or she also has more stamina. Furthermore, the exoskeleton is made to fit by using specially developed forms of textile. Ultimately, the scientists hope that the user will not notice that he or she is supported by the suit during his actions.

A prototype of the so-called Soft Exosuit has already been developed. Ultimately, the scientists and Darpa hope that soldiers, among others, can be equipped with the suit. Emergency services could also benefit. However, it is still unclear when Soft Exosuit will be released on the market.