Honda has unveiled its second experimental walking assist device that helps support bodyweight. It helps reduce the load on the user's legs while walking, going up and down stairs, and in a semi-crouching position. Honda claims the device is designed for people who are still capable of walking on their own.
The product has a relatively simple structure consisting of seat, frame, and shoes, and the user can put it on by simply wearing the shoes and lifting the seat into position. The structure to position the device between the user's legs minimizes the required footprint, therefore making it easier for them to maneuver.
Honda says the walking assistant offers a natural walking experience, which is achieved by changing the amount of assisting force applied to the right and left legs through the control of two motors based on the information obtained though sensors in the shoes of the device.
The company has been doing research on walking-assisted devices since 1999. Honda developed the knowledge required to develop the walking assist device from its thorough study of human walking represented by the research and development of Honda's advanced humanoid robot, ASIMO. Honda will now begin testing the device in real-world conditions to evaluate its effectiveness.
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