South Korean scientists have developed ultra-thin fabric muscles capable of lifting 33 pounds while weighing less than half an ounce, representing a major advancement in wearable robotics. This breakthrough, achieved by researchers at the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM), utilizes an automated weaving system to produce shape-memory alloy coils thinner than a strand of hair. The innovation could redefine assistive technology, enabling lightweight, flexible, and powerful wearable robots that support human movement without restricting it.
Traditional wearable robots have often relied on motors or pneumatic systems, which have made them bulky, expensive, and restrictive. KIMM’s approach replaces the metal core with natural fiber, allowing the yarn to stretch more freely while maintaining its strength. This advancement enables the fabrication of a lightweight actuator that can support multiple joints, such as shoulders, elbows, and the waist, while moving naturally with the body.
The technology has already shown promising results, with a prototype clothing-type wearable robot weighing less than 4.5 pounds reducing muscle effort by over 40% during repetitive tasks. A smaller version for shoulder support, weighing about 1.8 pounds, has been tested in Seoul National University Hospital, where patients with muscle weakness saw a 57% improvement in shoulder movement. These outcomes indicate the potential of fabric muscles to assist not only in industrial settings but also in restoring independence and mobility for individuals with physical limitations.
As this technology becomes more accessible, its applications could extend into everyday life, offering wearable solutions like jackets that help with physical tasks or shirts that reduce strain during long shifts. The implications for healthcare and industry are significant, potentially reducing workplace injuries and enhancing patient autonomy. KIMM’s success in scaling the production of fabric muscles represents a turning point in wearable robotics, bringing the concept of clothing that physically supports its users closer to reality.