SEOUL: Hyundai Motor and Kia Corporation have introduced the X-ble Shoulder, a wearable robot designed to enhance worker efficiency and reduce musculoskeletal injuries in industrial settings.
Debuting at Wearable Robot Tech Day at Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang on Nov 28, the X-ble Shoulder is the first product under the X-ble brand.
The X-ble Shoulder assists upper arm muscles during overhead tasks, alleviating strain on the musculoskeletal system.
Weighing about 1.9kg, it features a modular design, detachable vest, and materials engineered for safety and durability.
The robot’s non-powered torque generation structure eliminates the need for charging, providing up to 3.7 kgf of assistive force without the bulk of a battery.
Two models are available: a basic version for dynamic tasks and an adjustable version for repetitive movements.
Developed in collaboration with over 300 workers and health managers during a two-year trial, the device integrates user feedback for optimal functionality, comfort, and ease of use.
“We aim to create products that seamlessly integrate into users’ daily lives, enhancing their well-being and productivity," said Dong Jin Hyun, Vice President and Head of Hyundai and Kia’s Robotics LAB.
The X-ble Shoulder is tailored for diverse industries, including construction, shipbuilding, and agriculture.
Hyundai and Kia plan to expand sales globally, starting domestically in 2025 and targeting markets in Europe and North America by 2026.
The wearable robot market is poised for significant growth, with industry estimates projecting a market size of US$10.25 billion by 2029, driven by increasing demand across healthcare, manufacturing, and defence sectors.
Hyundai and Kia aim to establish a strong foothold by offering integrated consulting services for companies, analysing workplace muscle and joint loads to assess suitability.
Beyond the X-ble Shoulder, Hyundai and Kia are developing additional wearable solutions, including the X-ble Waist for lifting assistance and X-ble MEX for medical rehabilitation.
These innovations reflect the Robotics LAB’s broader ambition to foster human-robot collaboration, creating a harmonious and efficient working environment.
Interested companies can inquire through Hyundai and Kia’s Robotics LAB website, with production and delivery expected to start in the first half of 2025.
