[Nofilter Robot] "Your Legs Feel 20% Lighter"... The Magic of a 1.6kg Walking Assistance Robot

Experience With WeRoBotics' Walking Assistance Robot 'WIM'

Personalized Walking Assistance Service Launches on the 20th

Wearable Robot Features Expanded Through Subscription-Based Service

On April 13, under the clear, full bloom of spring at Olympic Park in Songpa-gu, Seoul, a group of people appeared among regular joggers wearing robotic legs attached to their thighs, drawing the attention of passersby. The device in question was the 'WIM S' walking assistance wearable robot developed by WeRoBotics. I put on this 'wearable robot' and threw myself into the jogging course.

'Breaking the Stereotype That Robots Are Heavy'

The most surprising aspect when I first received the product was its weight. Whereas conventional medical wearable robots are hefty, weighing several dozen kilograms and closer to 'equipment,' WIM weighs only about 1.6 kg. It took just one minute to fasten the actuator around my waist like a hiking hip sack and secure the thigh straps. The design, which does not look awkward even when worn over a shirt, suggested that this product targets a mainstream lifestyle rather than being limited to patients.

Actual wearing image of Urobotics' walking assistance wearable robot Wim S. Urobotics

Notably, unlike most walking assistance robots that use multiple actuators, WIM employs a single-actuator design that recognizes left and right walking patterns and applies assistance differently. This enables lightweight construction while still providing personalized walking support. The technology is currently preparing to enter the global market, based on a PCT international patent application. Additionally, the robot features a low-noise design and IP65-rated waterproof and dustproof capabilities, allowing for stable use in any season and environment.

When the WIM S was powered on and linked to its dedicated mobile app, the robot detected the movement of my muscles and gently pushed my leg forward. On the app screen, modes such as 'Air,' 'Hiking (Uphill/Downhill),' 'Care,' and 'Aqua' were displayed, along with real-time data on walking speed, balance, and muscle strength.

Mobile app interface synchronized with Wimb S, the wearable walking assistance robot by Virobotics. Photo by Jinyoung Kim

The true value of the robotic leg became apparent on the gentle hills of Olympic Park. Even in areas where I would normally be out of breath, I felt as if someone was softly pushing me from behind, providing propulsion that made it feel like walking on flat ground. Conversely, on descents, a resistance mode activated to reduce the load on my knees, significantly lowering joint fatigue. According to the company, metabolic energy expenditure on flat ground can be reduced by up to 20%.

Actual wearing image of Urobotics' gait-assist wearable robot WIM-S. Urobotics

From 'Silver' to the 'Athleisure' Market

Until now, the wearable robot market has mainly focused on lower-body paralysis patients or strength support in industrial settings. However, WeRoBotics has boldly expanded the target audience of WIM to the general public. It is now aimed not only at elderly people with limited mobility, but also at 'active seniors' who enjoy hiking and travel.

WeRoBotics stated, "Based on user gait data and feedback, we plan to further enhance the features and expand the scope of application beyond daily walking assistance and healthcare to include rehabilitation exercise, outdoor activities, and sports."

WeRoBotics will officially launch its subscription-based service 'WIM Premium,' based on WIM S, on April 20. This service combines software-based feature updates with the existing hardware-focused robot product, providing a personalized walking assistance experience that adapts to each user's walking condition and patterns.

In addition to the four main walking modes—'Air,' 'Hiking (Uphill/Downhill),' 'Care,' and 'Aqua'—three new subscription modes, 'Balance,' 'Soft,' and 'Slow Jogging,' will be added. Existing WIM S device users can access these features simply by updating the mobile app, without needing to replace any hardware. This demonstrates how robot products are evolving from simple device sales to a 'service model' where functionality is expanded through software updates.

Actual wearing image of the wearable walking assistance robot WIM S by WELO Robotics. WELO Robotics

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.