India Is Hitting The Gas Pedal On Exoskeleton Technology

The most populous country in the world has been showing increased interest in wearable exoskeleton technology and what it can do for its people. Earlier in the year, Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) unveiled a passive gravity redistribution full-body exoskeleton for dismounted infantry. This defense wearable project was done in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The system underwent trials with the Indian Army to evaluate its capabilities to alleviate the physical burden of soldiers carrying heavy loads over mountainous or uneven terrain.

According to Yedu Venu, Manager for Business Development, Defence & Space at Tata Advanced Systems in Bangalore, “Tata Advanced Systems’ exoskeleton is a co-development done by Tata and the Government of India, specifically the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), intending to meet the demands of infantry soldiers. It is already undergoing trials with the Indian Army.”

More than half a dozen companies worldwide are currently aiming to create a physical augmentation device that can be worn over clothing to help support larger loads where standard logistical equipment is sparse. The ultimate goal is to validate a system that transfers more than half of the load away from the soldier’s body, redirecting directly into the ground. This would reinforce the knees, hips, and lower back, reducing fatigue and risk of injury. This would be particularly beneficial for mountainous terrain, where changes in incline while walking further increase the stress on the body.

Tata Advanced Systems Limited isn’t the only Indian exoskeleton company exploring defense applications. Newndra, is another developer company that has not been shy in its efforts to create a wearable that reduces strain and pain on Indian soldiers.

For the past year, there has been a steady stream of exoskeleton technology-related news coming out of India. In April of last year, the Defence Bioengineering & Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL) held the first International Workshop on Emerging Technologies and Challenges for Exoskeletons. It featured speakers from India, Europe, and at least one from the U.S. In August, the Bureau of Indian Standards held a full-day workshop on exoskeleton safety and use.

Looking beyond defense applications, the New Delhi-based GenElek Technologies recently unveiled its walking assistance powered exoskeleton for individuals with lower-body paralysis.

As India dials up its interest in wearable technology, it is positioning itself as a user of exoskeleton technology and a serious innovator and manufacturer.