A new exoskeleton called the Dnsys X1 is being hailed as the first of its kind for consumers, offering a range of benefits from aiding in workouts to helping with day-to-day tasks. With an affordable price point of $599, the X1 has gained significant traction on Kickstarter, with over $975,000 pledged at the time of writing. The company behind the exoskeleton, Dnsys, was founded by CEO Sage Dong, a former member of the Segway founding team with expertise in robotics systems. The X1 is a slimmed-down version of a more expensive exoskeleton developed by Dnsys for hospital use, with a focus on artificial intelligence, biomedical engineering, and rehabilitative medicine.
Upon unboxing the X1, users will find a sturdy belt with thigh-length carbon fiber “legs” attached to servos. These legs easily strap around the leg above the knee with adjustable velcro, allowing for a customizable fit. The omnidirectional straps move in sync with the user’s leg movements, enabling activities like jumping jacks. While the exoskeleton weighs just 1.7 kg (3.74 lbs), it is important for the belt to be snug to optimize performance. The X1 works best when worn with exercise gear rather than belted jeans, providing a comfortable and supportive experience for the user.
The X1 is controlled by an accompanying app that syncs to the belt via Bluetooth, offering a seamless user experience. The AI-powered servos on the sides of the belt respond to the user’s body movements, providing assistance and resistance as needed. This functionality allows users to feel a reduction in body weight equivalent to 83 lbs when wearing the exoskeleton, making activities like running easier and more efficient. The app controls the level of assistance and resistance, but physical buttons on the servos offer a convenient alternative for adjusting strength during exercise.
While the X1 offers a maximum running speed of up to 16.7 mph (27 km/h) and a resistance mode for strength training, some users have noted that the servos can be noisy during operation. Despite this, the exoskeleton is praised for its utility and potential applications beyond fitness. Dnsys emphasizes the X1’s ability to help individuals maintain an active outdoor lifestyle, particularly for older populations. With its innovative features and user-friendly design, the X1 has the potential to revolutionize the way consumers approach exercise and daily activities.
In conclusion, the Dnsys X1 exoskeleton offers a unique blend of affordability, versatility, and functionality, making it a standout product in the wearable augmentive tech market. With its user-friendly design, advanced AI technology, and potential applications for fitness and daily tasks, the X1 has garnered significant interest and support from consumers. As the first exoskeleton designed specifically for consumer use, the X1 represents a significant step forward in the development of wearable technology. With continued advancements in the field of exoskeletons, the potential for improving the lives of individuals of all ages and abilities remains a promising future prospect.
