Honda reported another breakthrough in deploying its second walking assist device with bodyweight support system, designed to help people who would benefit from additional legs and body support while performing tasks. The company got the idea almost a decade ago, long after they had already begun experimenting with the ASIMO robots.

While working on ASIMO – acronym for Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility – researchers at Honda also began research on a walking assist device intended for people who can move and maneuver on their own, but who are facing joint or muscle problems when performing certain tasks.

The first experiment was introduced in April this year, and was the result of intensive research on human walking. The walking assist device had an overall weight of no more than 2.8 kg, was fit for different body shapes, and was intended for elderly and people with weakened leg muscles.

The new walking assist device, which is still in its experimental phase, targets people who could use some help while performing tasks. The device reduces the load on legs muscles and joints (the hip, knees, and ankles), was designed to provide natural assistance in various postures and motions, and could be of great assistance to workers who need to sustain certain positions for longer periods of time.

Compared to the first walking assist device, the second one weighs 6.5 kg, including the shoes and the batteries, but has the same operating time per charge: 2 hours. Furthermore, it has two motors embedded in the shoes with the help of which it achieves natural walking.

Honda said it will begin evaluating the effectiveness of its new model at the Saitama Factory starting this month.