Hyundai and Kia Introduce X-ble Shoulder Wearable Robot

Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have unveiled the X-ble Shoulder, a lightweight wearable robot aimed at revolutionizing industrial work. Designed to enhance productivity and reduce musculoskeletal injuries, this innovation supports upper arm strength during overhead tasks.

X-ble Shoulder Features and Benefits

The X-ble Shoulder, revealed at the Wearable Robot Tech Day near Seoul, is part of Hyundai and Kia’s X-ble line of wearable robotics.

• Lightweight Design: Weighs just 1.9 kg, with an adjustable length (406-446 mm).
• Material Strength: Built with carbon composites and wear-resistant materials for durability.
• Muscle Strain Reduction: Reduces shoulder load by up to 60% and deltoid muscle activity by up to 30%.
• Applications: Useful across sectors like construction, shipbuilding, aviation, agriculture, and automotive industries.

Future X-ble Innovations

Hyundai and Kia are expanding the X-ble lineup to include:

• X-ble Waist: Assists with heavy lifting.
• X-ble MEX: A medical robot supporting walking rehabilitation.

Dong Jin Hyun, Vice President and Head of Robotics LAB at Hyundai and Kia, stated that user feedback played a crucial role in developing the X-ble Shoulder.

Global Expansion and Market Potential

Initially available in Korea, Hyundai and Kia plan to launch the X-ble Shoulder in Europe and North America by 2026. They aim to meet the increasing demand in the wearable robotics market, projected to grow from $2.55 billion in 2024 to $10.25 billion by 2029 at a CAGR of 32.05%.

Implications for Industry and Beyond

Beyond industrial use, the X-ble Shoulder offers potential for healthcare, small businesses, and domestic tasks. It could assist physical therapists, aid home healthcare workers, and simplify household maintenance.

Competitors in Wearable Robotics

The X-ble Shoulder faces competition from:

1. SuitX ShoulderX: Reduces muscle strain by up to 80%.
2. Ottobock Paexo Shoulder: Lightweight and minimizes strain by 75%.
3. ATOUN MODEL Y: Focuses on overhead and lifting tasks.

With its innovative features and broad applications, the X-ble Shoulder positions Hyundai and Kia as leaders in the growing wearable robotics sector.