Exoskeletons: a review of recent progress

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to provide an insight into recent developments in the robotic exoskeleton business by considering research, corporate activities, products and emerging applications. Design/methodology/approach Following a short introduction, this first provides examples of exoskeleton research involving artificial intelligence (AI). It then identifies recent market entrants and their products and discusses emerging industrial applications. Finally, conclusions are drawn. Findings The exoskeleton business is in a highly dynamic state. A research effort involving AI techniques seeks to impart exoskeletons with greatly enhanced capabilities, particularly in clinical applications. Many new companies have been established during the past decade, and several are exploiting academic research. The majority are targeting applications in the clinical market. The industrial sector is viewed as a key growth area, but applications remain limited, although some exist for robotic gloves, upper-body, waist and lower-body devices in the logistics, construction, automotive and other industries. Industrial applications for full-body exoskeleton are yet to progress beyond the trial stage. Originality/value This provides details of recent academic and corporate developments and emerging industrial applications in the robotic exoskeleton business.