- In October 2024, ExxonMobil Chemical Company deepened its partnership with Materia, Inc. to scale up production of Proxima™ polymers—lightweight, hydrocarbon-based materials engineered for exosuit applications in industrial and military settings. These advanced thermoset resins, derived from Nobel Prize-winning ROMP catalyst technology, offer exceptional strength, toughness, and chemical resistance while being significantly lighter than traditional materials such as epoxy or polyurethane. By combining ExxonMobil’s global manufacturing capabilities with Materia’s innovative chemistry, the collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of high-performance composites in next-generation wearable robotics and protective gear
- In September 2024, Ekso Bionics expanded its capabilities by acquiring a materials division from Parker Hannifin Corporation, specifically focused on advanced lightweight composites used in the Indego exoskeleton line. This strategic move builds on Ekso’s earlier acquisition of Parker’s Human Motion and Control business and reinforces its commitment to enhancing durability, comfort, and performance in exosuits for rehabilitation and industrial use. By integrating proprietary composite technologies, Ekso aims to deliver more ergonomic and efficient wearable robotics, further solidifying its leadership in the exoskeleton market
- In July 2024, CYBERDYNE Inc. partnered with Svaya Robotics to co-develop a new generation of flexible, lightweight exosuit materials for medical rehabilitation. This collaboration centers on enhancing CYBERDYNE’s Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) system by integrating Svaya’s advanced material technologies, aiming to improve mobility and comfort for patients with spinal cord injuries. The partnership not only strengthens HAL’s therapeutic capabilities but also expands CYBERDYNE’s footprint in the global healthcare market, particularly in neurorehabilitation and assistive robotics
- In June 2024, Lockheed Martin Corporation, in collaboration with Singapore’s Defense Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), introduced a new line of advanced exosuit materials engineered for military applications. These materials are designed to deliver enhanced strength and reduced weight, significantly improving mobility, endurance, and comfort for soldiers operating in demanding environments. The initiative reflects a broader push toward next-generation soldier systems that integrate lightweight composites and ergonomic design to boost operational effectiveness.
- While specific technical details of the materials remain under wraps, you can explore Lockheed Martin’s broader innovation efforts on their official engineering materials page. Let me know if you’d such as a comparison with other military-grade exosuit technologies
- In April 2024, German Bionic unveiled a new carbon-fiber-based exosuit material for its powered exoskeletons, targeting industrial automation and physically demanding workplaces. This lightweight yet durable material enhances ergonomics, reduces worker fatigue, and improves safety during repetitive lifting and strenuous tasks. The launch was backed by a funding round, underscoring investor confidence in German Bionic’s mission to augment human labor with AI-powered wearable robotics. The new material is integrated into the company’s flagship Apogee and Apogee+ exosuits, which are already deployed across logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors
