Walking Assist
Striving to offer the joy of mobility to more people, Honda began research and development of the Honda Walking Assist Device in 1999. As with ASIMO, Honda's humanoid robot, the Honda Walking Assist Device adopts cooperative control technology that was developed based on Honda's cumulative study of human walking.
The Walking Assist Device features a function to influence the user to achieve efficient walking based on the inverted pendulum model, which is a theory of bipedal walking, and is designed as a device to be used in the training of walking.
How it works?
The control computer activates motors based on data obtained from hip angle sensors during walking, to improve the symmetry of the timing of each leg lifting from the ground and extending forward, and to promote a longer stride for an easier walk.
Structure
The compact design of the device and overall weight of approximately 2.7kg were achieved through the adoption of Honda’s independently developed thin motors and a control system, as well as a simple design that enables the device to be worn with belts. As a result, the device is less of a burden on the user and suitable for various body sizes.
Key Features
- Compact size and light weight were achieved through thin motors and a control system developed independently by Honda.
- Adoption of a simple belt-structure, making it easier for the user to attach and remove the device.
- Adoption of size-adjustable frames, making it possible for more people with various body sizes/types to use the Honda Walking Assist Device.
- The Honda Walking Assist Device features a measuring function which visualizes unique walking patterns and training status of each user on a tablet–type information device.
- Three training modes are available:
- 1)Following mode: The Walking Assist Device influence the user’s walking motions based on the walking pattern of the user.
- 2)Symmetric mode: Based on the walking patterns of the user, the Walking Assist Device influences the user to achieve bilaterally symmetric motions such as bending and extending both legs.
- 3)Step mode: The Walking Assist Device influence the user’s steps repeatedly to recover the rocker functions* which enable the smooth shifting of weight.
- *Rocker functions are leg motions which enable smooth shifting of weigh from heal to sole and sole to toe.
Key Specifications
| Overall width | Approx. 430mm - 495mm |
| Weight | Approx. 2.7kg (including battery) |
| Operating time per charge | Approximately 60 minutes |
| Battery | Lithium-ion battery, 22.2V-1Ah |
| Motor output | Maximum torque: 4N・m |
| Use environment | Indoor or outdoor (except when raining) on flat floor/ground |
| Appropriate temperature range for storage | Between -20℃ and 55℃ |
| Appropriate temperature range for use | Between 10℃ and 30℃ |
| Appropriate humidity range for use | Between 30% and 85% |