All-Terrain Exoskeleton: Your Superhuman E-Hiker

If you considered the Hypershell a one-off oddity, think again. More AI-powered outdoor exoskeletons are on the horizon, aimed at assisting casual adventurers in covering greater distances with ease and speed.

Up next is the X1 from Chinese startup Dnsys. Attach this motorized AI device to your waist and thighs to enhance your mobility with an additional 900 watts for walking, hiking, scrambling, climbing, and running. The X1 can handle up to 83 lb (38 kg) of weight, boosts speeds to over 16 mph (26 km/h), and conveniently folds down for travel.

Unveiling the Era of Temporary-Cyborg Adventure with Exoskeletons

Despite years of covering safety, industrial, military, and medical exoskeletons, the concept of a wearable recreational performance enhancer didn’t catch our attention until Hypershell introduced its Omega lineup on Kickstarter just over a year ago. While it initially seemed like an unconventional outlier, it might have heralded the era of the temporary-cyborg adventure enthusiast.

Similar to how e-bikes make cycling accessible to those hesitant about long rides without assistance, these recreational exoskeletons aim to introduce people to hiking and climbing experiences beyond their usual fitness level. While the idea may currently seem far-fetched, these devices could prove highly beneficial, offering a liberating way to overcome physical limitations.

Following in Hypershell’s footsteps, Dnsys is launching its outdoor-focused wearable exoskeleton on Kickstarter today at 9 a.m. EDT. Clearly taking cues from Hypershell’s exoskeletons, Dnsys aims to surpass them in every aspect listed on the specification sheet.

The X1 boasts a lighter design, weighing in at just 3.5 lb (1.6 kg), which is below the 4 lb (1.8 kg) mark of last year’s lightest Hypershell model from their Kickstarter campaign. Additionally, the X1 delivers 100 watts more power than any Hypershell, providing an additional 18 pounds (8 kg) of weight-supporting capacity, totaling an estimated 83 lb (38 kg).

Experience the Freedom of Lightness with Dnsys’ Innovative Design

Picture yourself wearing a bulky, fully-packed backpack—reminiscent of an old-school external-frame pack that complements Dnsys’ design—yet feeling as if you’re hiking with nothing more than a lightweight, quick-drying shirt on your back.

You don’t need to carry a hefty 83 lb load to experience the benefits of the X1’s 30 lb-ft (40 Nm) of torque. Even on a day hike with just a water bottle in hand, the X1 aims to reduce the strain with each step, cutting energy expenditure by up to 50%. This allows you to maintain freshness longer and extend your journey.

The X1 uses its onboard motion sensor to analyze leg positioning thousands of times per second. Its advanced AI on a dual-core 240MHz processor interprets these movements, adjusting the motor output in real-time based on the user’s intentions. Over time, the AI learns and personalizes its responses to individual movements.

Carbon Plus for Power or Lite for Agility

Additionally, the X1 has a boost mode, delivering its full 900 watts (1.2 hp) for speeds up to 16.7 mph (27 km/h)—exceeding the average half-marathon runner’s pace by about 10 mph (16 km/h).

The X1 offers more than just speed and power. On downhill sections, it can apply resistance to maintain a controlled, slower pace, safeguarding the wearer’s knees and providing precise foot control.

In fact, Dnsys estimates the X1’s battery range between 15.5 to 18.6 miles (25 to 30 km), sufficient for a full day of hiking. Users have the option to swap batteries, doubling the range. A quick eight-minute charge from a mobile phone charger adds 20% battery life, aided by integrated kinetic energy recovery (KERS) to optimize battery usage.

The X1: Merging Aerospace Precision with Ultimate Comfort

In fact, Constructed with a combination of lightweight materials like aerospace-grade aluminum and carbon fiber, the X1 is designed for minimal weight. It attaches to the user’s waist using a secure chain clasp belt for improved fit and comfort. Adjustable thigh straps with Boa dials ensure a customized, snug fit.

Once the adventure concludes, the X1 folds down to a compact 6-L size, making it easy to store in a backpack or suitcase.

However, with multiple exoskeleton versions hitting the market, trying one out firsthand could be the best way to grasp the bionic adventure experience. Dnsys offers early-bird Kickstarter pledges for the X1, priced between $399 and $998. The $599 Carbon model seems a balanced choice for its features and 15.5+ mile range.

Carbon Plus for Power or Lite for Agility

The $998 Carbon Plus includes an extra battery and titanium build, while the $399 Lite model has a smaller motor and a bit more weight. Deliveries begin in July, but as with any Kickstarter, there’s a risk of delays or non-delivery. Despite this, the X1 has caught our attention!

Check out the video below—it’s not perfect, but it’s still intriguing!

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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