South Korean scientists have made a groundbreaking advancement in wearable robotics with the creation of ultra-thin fabric muscles that can lift 33 pounds while weighing less than half an ounce. This innovation, developed by researchers at the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM), has the potential to redefine how assistive technologies support human movement in everyday life.
The development of these fabric muscles involves an automated weaving system that spins shape-memory alloy coils thinner than a strand of hair. This breakthrough marks a significant departure from conventional wearable robotics, which have traditionally relied on bulkier motors or pneumatic systems. These older technologies were often expensive, limited natural movement, and posed challenges in terms of weight and flexibility.
KIMM’s solution replaces the metal core of earlier coil designs with natural fibers, allowing the fabric to stretch more freely while retaining its strength. This advancement leads to the creation of lightweight actuators that can support multiple joints simultaneously, such as the shoulders, elbows, and waist, without restricting movement. This flexibility is essential for integrating such technology into clothing, enabling it to move and function in harmony with the human body.
Testing of the world’s first clothing-type wearable robot has resulted in notable improvements, with the device reducing muscle effort by over 40% during repetitive tasks. Smaller versions, such as a shoulder support device weighing around 1.8 pounds, have demonstrated their efficacy in helping patients with muscle weakness improve their shoulder movement by over 57% in trials conducted at Seoul National University Hospital. These results highlight the potential of this technology to restore independence and mobility for individuals who need it most.
The implications of this innovation extend beyond healthcare. In industries like construction and logistics, fabric muscles could reduce fatigue and improve safety by supporting workers during physically demanding tasks. For everyday use, the potential for such technology to become part of daily attire is becoming more plausible, envisioning jackets that assist with lifting groceries or work shirts that reduce strain during long shifts.
With KIMM’s success in automated production of these fabric muscles, the transition of this technology from laboratories to workplaces and homes is becoming increasingly feasible. The ability to weave strength into flexible materials represents a significant step toward developing clothing that can enhance physical support and practical utility in daily life. As this technology advances, its impact on both personal and professional life is anticipated to grow, potentially transforming the way assistive technologies are integrated into human activities.