Sogang University Develops Wearable Robot Angellex, Walk-on-Suit Using Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks

Dassault Systèmes (www.3ds.com) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Sogang University to promote the development of wearable robots.

At the MOU signing ceremony held at Sogang University, officials including Ken Clayton, Global Executive Vice President of SolidWorks, Professor Lee Chul-soo, Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Sogang University, and Director Kim Seok-chan of SolidWorks partner Cubictek (www.cubictek.co.kr) attended and pledged continuous cooperation for the development of domestic wearable robots.

Professor Gong Kyung-chul, who is conducting research on wearable robots at Sogang University, has developed various wearable robots to assist people with disabilities who have difficulty walking, utilizing Dassault Systèmes’ SolidWorks. Representative examples include Angelegs, designed to assist patients or the elderly with reduced muscle strength, and the Walk-On Suit, which enables people with disabilities who have completely lost motor function in their legs to walk, depending on the application.

The Walk-On Suit is a wearable robot that enables the user to walk by operating motors based on real-time detection of a person's movement intentions using sensors and switches. Through this agreement, Dassault Systèmes supports the use of SolidWorks for Sogang University's research and development of wearable robots and the training of related industry experts.

Professor Gong Kyung-chul's team is currently preparing to compete in the 'Cybathlon,' a robot Olympics where completely paralyzed individuals wear robot suits and walk like able-bodied people to perform missions. The Cybathlon will be held in Switzerland in October. Professor Gong explained, “Since wearable robots are products actually worn and used by people, there are many variables to consider,” adding, “By utilizing Dassault Systèmes’ SOLIDWORKS’ intuitive solutions, we were able to proceed with design, verification, communication, and data management relatively conveniently.”

He also shared his thoughts on the agreement, stating, “Through this collaboration with Dassault Systèmes, we will further accelerate the development of wearable robots, which are attracting attention as an alternative for the aging society beyond the medical field.”

Ken Clayton, Vice President of Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks, said, “Dassault Systèmes spares no effort to produce experts and advance related industries through various industry-academia collaboration activities,” adding, “We will do our utmost to take Korea’s wearable robot industry to the next level through continuous collaboration with Sogang University.”