'Iron Man' Exoskeleton Kicks Butt
-
By Tracy Staedter
Sept. 28, 2010 -- Raytheon unveiled the latest generation of its wearable robotic suit developed for the military, and wow, it packs a wallop. It's lighter, stronger and faster than the previous version, and uses 50 percent less power. The research scientists hope to reduce that to 20 percent of the original model before its finished. Here, test engineer Rex Jameson does push ups during a demonstration. Credit: Courtesy Raytheon Company
The robotic suit was developed to assist military personnel with repetitive lifting duties, which can lead to injuries. The suit is built from a combination of structures, sensors, actuators and controllers, and it is powered by high pressure hydraulics. Someone wearing it is able to do the work of three people. Talk about an iron man! Credit: Courtesy Raytheon Company
There are two main uses for the XOS 2: First, for combat. A soldier would wear it to aid with supporting a heavy backpack, thereby lightening the load. The other use is for logistics on the battlefield, such as hauling and lifting heavy supplies, including cases of water bottles, food rations and munitions. Raytheon says the exoskeleton suits should appear in the field in the next six to ten years.
-
our sites
-
video
-
shop
-
stay connected
-
corporate
comments ( )