Strap a Powerful e-Motor on Your Legs With the DNSYS X1 Exoskeleton

As it turns out, even then, we can rely on external aid. It's a brave new world out there, and while AI-powered exoskeletons are yet to go full mainstream, they're moving closer to that moment. This one, now crowdfunding its way to mass production, is actually an upgrade to a larger-sized professional wearable exoskeleton designed for hospitals by DNSYS.

Unlike its predecessor, it's smaller and more comfortable, very smart and powerful, and can turn just about any average Jane or Joe into the Road Runner when set loose on whatever terrain for whatever type of physical activity. That last part is obviously an exaggeration, but only for the sake of painting a telling picture.

Imagine what an e-motor does to a traditional, pedal-powered bicycle in terms of range, ease of use, and speed, and you get the same kind of effect with the DNSYS X1 Exoskeleton. If we're to follow through with the comparison, the X1 Exoskeleton is an e-motor, backed by AI machine learning, strapped to your legs and making you go farther, faster, and with less effort.

As noted above, exoskeletons have been around for years, but their applicability has remained limited to certain sectors, mostly on considerations of their size and price. They're fairly common in construction or any other industry where heavy goods need relocating, but they've also been used in areas like medicine, tech, and the military.

DNSYS is hoping to take them mainstream, with an offer of the "you can't refuse" kind: an exoskeleton that is lightweight and super-smart, yet very powerful and adjustable to each individual wearer, at a price you can't beat. That last part applies at least in the current stage of crowdfunding, with early bird backers able to get it for half its MRSP.

The X1 is powered by an integrated 894W motor that develops 40Nm (36.88 lb-ft) of torque, so the equivalent of what you'd find in a mid-range e-bike. That power is sent directly to the wearer legs, through a 10-mode adaptive copilot powered by AI. Through machine learning, the "pilot" is able to adapt and anticipate the wearer's moves, adjusting output of power accordingly and seamlessly.

The first estimates released include a 38-kg (84-lbs) weight offset during whatever physical activity, be it hiking, sprinting, or mountain climbing. Top speed is 27 kph (16.7 mph), which, again, brings to mind comparison to motor-assisted bicycles, and there's a one-click boost mode that delivers a 1.2 hp maximum output.

Another mode, Resistance Mode, comes in to protect the wearer's knees when going down the stairs or down the hill – kind of like that good friend always advising you to take it easy, but better.

The battery is good for 30 km (18.6 miles) of assisted physical activity, so if you're the kind who loves overly extended walks, it's best to use that "torque" button with moderation. The good news is that the battery is designed to be swappable, so you can carry an extra one with you on those outings.

Described as "a revolution in exoskeleton technology," the X1 Exoskeleton "marries advanced robotics, cutting-edge ergonomics, and intelligent AI in a sleek, compact design that delivers unparalleled power on demand." That's not just marketing talk, either. While the examples of exoskeletons available for private use are few, the X1 stands out as the highest-performance of many.

The X1 Exoskeleton weighs just 1.9 kg (4.1 lbs) and folds down to the size of a A4 sheet for easy transport. It's made of lightweight materials, like 3D knitted material with ribbed structure, and a chain-link construction for a snug and comfortable wear, regardless of the kind of movement you have to make while wearing it. Seeing how it was designed for activities ranging from hikes in natural parks to more extreme and physically demanding activities like running, it'd better be both of these things.

DNSYS says the X1 is 6 times more powerful than any similar wearable from competitors while also 61% lighter than the same. The fact that it promises smooth and intuitive assistance through the system of sensors and the artificial neural network is like the cherry on top. The X1 also comes with connectivity, with wearers able to get detailed stats of their activity and engage with the community on the dedicated app.

The DNSYS X1 Exoskeleton is now live on crowdfunding, with super early bird backers willing to take a leap of faith able to get it for $399. MRSP is estimated at $798, with the first batch of deliveries going out in July 2024. In other words, if you're among those inclined to take that leap, you'll be ready in time for summer hiking and mountain walking – and whatever else you want, because now you'll have no excuse to stay home.