Wearable Robots and Exoskeletons: An Overview of a Transforming Market

Wearable robots commonly known as exoskeletons represent one of the most rapidly evolving areas in robotics, blending human capability with mechanical assistance. These devices are designed to be worn on the body to enhance strength, support mobility, or assist individuals with physical limitations. As technological innovation accelerates, the market for wearable robots and exoskeletons is expanding into new industries and reshaping how people work, rehabilitate, and interact with machines.

1. What Wearable Robots and Exoskeletons Are

Wearable robots are mechanical structures worn externally to support or augment human movement. They typically consist of:

• Sensors, which detect user movement or intent

• Motors or actuators, which provide mechanical assistance

• Control systems, integrating user input with machine output

• Lightweight frames, often made from advanced materials like carbon fiber

Exoskeletons come in several forms full-body suits, upper-body devices, lower-limb supports depending on the application.