Have you ever wished you could walk with less effort? Imagine having a superpower that makes walking feel like gliding on air! Well, the scientists at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) have come up with something close to that – robotic shorts called WalkON.
WalkON is a really cool invention designed to help people, especially older folks, walk more easily and with less effort. These high-tech shorts use artificial tendons and tiny motors to assist with every step. This means that walking takes less energy, making it easier for people to stay active and healthy.
For example, young people wearing WalkON shorts can reduce the energy they use while walking by up to 18%. That’s like getting an extra boost of energy with each step you take! For older individuals, the energy savings are more than 10%, which is a big deal because it helps them maintain their mobility and independence for longer.
Imagine how amazing it would be for elderly people who want to stay active but find it hard to walk long distances. With WalkON, they can enjoy their daily walks, go grocery shopping, or simply move around their homes without feeling exhausted. This innovation could greatly improve their quality of life.
But WalkON isn’t just for the elderly. It can also help people recovering from injuries or those with mobility issues. Imagine a person who loves hiking but had to stop because of a knee injury. With WalkON, they might be able to get back on the trails and enjoy their favorite outdoor activities again.
Overall, WalkON is an exciting innovation that shows how technology can make a positive impact on our daily lives. It’s like having a personal assistant for your legs, helping you walk more effortlessly and stay active for longer. The future of mobility is looking bright with inventions like WalkON!
