Researchers at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) have introduced a groundbreaking wearable device WalkON robotic trousers, designed to enhance walking efficiency and reduce energy expenditure. This innovation promises to significantly improve mobility, particularly for elderly and frail individuals, enabling them to stay active, independent, and healthy for longer periods.
A New Era of Walking Assistance: WalkON Robotic Trousers
At the core of TUM’s development is WalkON, a pair of robotic shorts designed to make walking easier and more energy-efficient. This innovative system is engineered to help individuals reduce the effort required for walking, allowing them to move more easily while expending less energy. “You can walk slowly, or even jog,” says Professor Lorenzio Masia of TUM. “It’s a system that encourages people to move more.”
The WalkON robotic trousers offer a level of support tailored to each individual. For example, when a young person walks 500 meters uphill, the energy spent—referred to as the metabolic cost—drops by 18%, while for an older individual walking 400 meters on level ground, it decreases by more than 10%. This reduction in energy expenditure is akin to losing between 6 to 10 kilograms in body weight. The device’s ability to reduce physical effort makes it easier for people to stay mobile and active.
How WalkON Works: A Technological Marvel for Mobility
WalkON is powered by a tendon-driven mechanism that assists in natural leg movement. Thin, artificial tendons run from the thigh to a waist belt, which helps alleviate some of the load on the hip flexors. This is especially beneficial during the transition into the swing phase of walking, where much of the physical strain occurs. The system is designed to adapt in real time to a user’s walking speed and weight. This means WalkON automatically adjusts the level of support to ensure smooth, efficient movement.
One of the most impressive aspects of WalkON is its ability to detect how fast a person is moving and adjust to the weight of their legs. This personalized support ensures that each user receives the optimal amount of assistance based on their individual needs. Whether the wearer is a teenager walking briskly or an older adult moving more slowly, WalkON tailors its assistance for maximum efficiency, allowing users to walk without unnecessary strain.
The device’s lightweight and flexible design makes it more comfortable than traditional exoskeletons, which are often bulky and rigid. WalkON looks more like regular clothing and is no larger than a small rucksack, making it easy for users to wear and integrate into their daily routines. In the near future, the researchers envision a modular version of WalkON that users can customize. “In a few years, you will buy a pair of shorts, attach a motor, and plug in two cables. The system will then be ready to help you tackle any outdoor challenge,” explains Professor Masia.
Impact on Health: Promoting Mobility and Independence
WalkON holds particular promise for elderly individuals or those with chronic health conditions like heart disease or lung disease. For these populations, staying mobile is crucial for maintaining health, as walking can help improve metabolism, circulation, and overall fitness. The robotic trousers make it easier for individuals to engage in physical activity, even if they struggle with fatigue or weakness.
In a series of trials, study participants reported a strong sense of control while wearing WalkON. Participants rated their perceived control over their voluntary movements with a mean score of 6.20 out of 7 on a Likert scale, indicating high satisfaction with the device’s ability to support their movements. Even older adults, who might typically feel insecure or unsteady while walking, reported similarly high scores. Those using WalkON on level ground gave a mean score of 6.09 out of 7, demonstrating that the device is effective for improving not just mobility, but also users’ confidence in their ability to walk safely and independently.
This sense of control is particularly important for older individuals, who may otherwise feel hesitant to engage in physical activities due to fear of falling or injury. WalkON allows users to feel secure in their movements, providing an extra layer of support without making them feel reliant on assistive devices like walkers or canes. With this added confidence, users are more likely to engage in regular physical activity, which can improve their overall well-being and quality of life.
Broader Implications for Physical Well-being
The impact of WalkON on daily walking and energy expenditure has significant implications for physical health. In studies, the robotic shorts were tested on young adults who walked uphill on a 500-meter outdoor hiking trail. Results showed that WalkON reduced their metabolic cost by an impressive 17.79%. This reduction in energy expenditure means users can walk longer distances or engage in more strenuous activity without tiring as quickly.
For older adults walking on flat ground, WalkON cut their metabolic cost by 10.48%. This is particularly important because many elderly individuals experience muscle weakening and joint pain, making walking a tiring and sometimes painful activity. By reducing the effort required, WalkON can help older adults stay active for longer periods, contributing to their overall health and mobility.
In addition to the physical benefits, WalkON’s design helps promote a sense of independence. Users can go about their daily routines without the constant need for assistance, and the reduced fatigue can allow them to engage in social activities, exercise, and even leisure pursuits—ultimately improving their quality of life.
Looking Toward the Future: The Promise of Modular Exoskeletons
The technology behind WalkON opens the door to a new generation of wearable devices designed to improve mobility for a wide range of people, from the elderly to athletes. Unlike current exoskeletons, which are often rigid and cumbersome, WalkON is a soft garment that blends seamlessly into daily life. This flexibility makes it an attractive option for individuals who need assistance but do not want to wear bulky equipment that limits their freedom of movement.
Professor Masia envisions a future where people can choose modular components to tailor WalkON to their specific needs. The possibility of easily upgrading or customizing the device could make it more accessible and adaptable for a variety of users, from elderly people seeking to improve their mobility to active individuals looking to reduce walking fatigue during long hikes.
Conclusion: A Step Toward Enhanced Mobility and Health
WalkON represents a technological breakthrough that promises to change the way we think about mobility and assistive devices. By offering a lightweight, flexible solution that adapts to individual movement and weight, WalkON helps people walk with less effort, improve their physical health, and retain a sense of independence. Whether for the elderly, people with chronic health conditions, or anyone looking to enhance their physical activity, WalkON has the potential to revolutionize the way we move.
As the system continues to evolve, the possibilities for improving mobility, increasing physical activity, and enhancing quality of life are endless. The future of walking assistance looks brighter than ever with WalkON leading the way.
