위로보틱스, 300만원대 ‘등산용 입는 로봇’ 판매 시작 Update 2024

WiRobotics Begins Selling $30,000 ‘Wearable Mountaineering Robot’ in 2024

위로보틱스(WiRobotics), a South Korean robotics startup, has started selling its wearable robotic device called ‘WIM’ aimed at assisting people with walking and hiking activities. The WIM, which stands for ‘Wearable Intelligent Machine’, is an ultralight wearable robot that weighs only 1.6 kg (3.5 lbs) and can be worn like a backpack.

How it Works

The WIM uses robotic arms that extend from the backpack to gently lift and support the user’s legs during walking or hiking. This assistive force helps reduce fatigue and strain on the leg muscles, making it easier for people to walk longer distances or navigate challenging terrains like steep mountain trails.

The device is designed to be user-friendly, with a simple on/off switch and adjustable settings to customize the level of assistance based on the user’s needs. It runs on a rechargeable battery that can last up to 2 hours of continuous use.

Target Market

The WIM is marketed towards a wide range of users, including the elderly, people with mobility issues, and outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy hiking or trekking with less physical strain. At a price point of around $30,000 (300만원), the WIM is positioned as a premium product, but WiRobotics hopes to make it more affordable in the future as the technology advances.

Future Developments

WiRobotics is already working on the next generation of the WIM, aiming to improve battery life, reduce weight, and potentially incorporate AI and machine learning to better adapt to the user’s gait and terrain. The company envisions a future where wearable robots like the WIM become as common as fitness trackers, helping people maintain an active and healthy lifestyle well into their later years.