Researchers at Stanford have developed an exoskeleton for running

Now many private companies and research organizations are developing exoskeletons. Among others, scientists from Stanford. A joint team of researchers has developed a prototype of an active exoskeleton, which makes it possible to reduce the load on the legs both when running and when walking.

The results were very impressive - energy costs for running with the exoskeleton turned on decreased by about 15% . The device cannot be called very portable or convenient, but it does its job.

The exoskeleton is attached to the lower leg with straps, and it is also attached to the shoe with a rope, which is looped under the foot. The exoskeleton has a small supporting carbon fiber platform, which is located under the foot.

The design feature of this exoskeleton in the absence of its own electric motors. It is controlled using a system of cables pulled or loosened by external electric motors. The system is quite effective, the goal, in general, is achieved - the strength of the muscles of a person is slightly enhanced.


Since the system was designed for running, its tests were carried out on a treadmill. The test was attended by 11 athletes - athletes. The tests were carried out both in passive and in active modes, and tests showed that in passive mode the device increases the energy consumption for running. It is not necessary to be surprised, because in passive mode the system is simply an additional burden.

Also, the developers tested the device in the simulated spring mode, so if the system was passive and based on the operation of the springs. After all the tests, it turned out that the system improves the running speed by about 10%. Now a team of researchers is improving the exoskeleton.

Two weeks ago , Russian specialists presented their own developments.. They showed two exoskeletons, PE52-ST and ES-01.



As for PE52-ST, it is a semi-active design that does not duplicate hand movements. Also, the system does not enhance movement, like some other exoskeleton models. But in the nodes of the hands there are active locking mechanisms that allow you to lift and hold the load, including a hard, specific time.

As for the second model, this is a “soft” exoskeleton, which allows you to remove the load from the doctor’s body for the duration of operations. As a result, the specialist will not have a back, neck or arm pain.

There are more complete developments, for example, an exoskeleton from Guardian XO. The development belongs to the American company Sarcos Robotics. Its exoskeletons will be adopted by representatives of the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). Well, this robotic exoskeleton is called “Guardian XO”. The weight of such a system is approximately 90 kilograms.