Hyundai Motor Company and Kia have launched an industrial wearable robot ‘X-ble Shoulder.’ This wearable device is designed to increase workers’ efficiency and reduce musculoskeletal injuries.

The X-ble Shoulder is the first product in the X-ble line. When used in ‘overhead work’, where the arm is raised, it supports a user’s upper arm muscle. This reduces the burden on the upper extremity musculoskeletal system.

Hyundai Motor and Kia anticipate the X-ble Shoulder will find use in various industries, including construction, shipbuilding, aviation and agriculture, as well as automobiles. Following its domestic launch, the companies plan to gradually expand sales to overseas markets.

In addition to the X-ble Shoulder, Hyundai Motor and Kia plan to develop an industrial wearable robot ‘X-ble Waist’. This will assist the waist when lifting heavy loads. They also plan a medical wearable robot, ‘X-ble MEX’, for rehabilitation of the walking impaired.

The X-ble Shoulder can reduce shoulder load by up to 60 percent and anterior/lateral deltoid muscle activity by up to 30 percent reduction to improve the quality of life of workers.

The X-ble Shoulder uses carbon composite material and wear-resistant material used in high-end vehicles. Due to the product’s high strength and light weight, it can be used stably without difficulty even for long hours. The parts that touch the user’s body are designed to protect against bodily injury that can occur in industrial sites. They apply impact-resistant material used in the top part of the vehicle’s crash pad.

The X-ble Shoulder weighs roughly 1.9 kg and can be sized to fit the wearer. Its body length is adjustable between 406 mm and 446 mm. It allows full arm movement from 0 to 180 degrees without hindering work or rest activities.