Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have announced plans to commercialize their new wearable robotic device, the X-ble Shoulder, at the Wearable Robot Tech Day event in Seoul, South Korea. Developed by the companies’ Robotics LAB, the X-ble Shoulder is designed to improve industrial efficiency and alleviate musculoskeletal strain by assisting with overhead work. Commercial deliveries of the device are slated to begin in the first half of 2025.
The X-ble Shoulder, the inaugural product of the new X-ble brand, enhances upper arm muscle strength and reduces shoulder load by 60%, while decreasing muscle activity by 30%. It is intended for use in industries such as construction, aviation, agriculture, shipbuilding, and automotive manufacturing. The lightweight device aims to improve workplace safety and comfort by minimizing the physical demands of repetitive tasks involving elevated arm positions.
The product’s launch was accompanied by videos released on Hyundai Motor Group’s YouTube channel, showcasing its functionality and development. The X-ble brand, a combination of “X” for infinite potential and “able” to signify feasibility, underscores Hyundai and Kia’s commitment to innovation in wearable robotics.
Dong Jin Hyun, Vice President and Head of Robotics LAB at Hyundai Motor and Kia, highlighted the collaborative approach taken in the X-ble Shoulder’s development, incorporating feedback from users to refine its design. He emphasized the companies’ broader vision to expand the application of wearable robotics to enhance both industrial and personal settings.
Future additions to the X-ble line are planned, including the X-ble Waist for supporting the lower back during heavy lifting and the X-ble MEX for aiding mobility in individuals with walking impairments. Hyundai and Kia also intend to extend the X-ble Shoulder’s availability to international markets following its domestic launch.
