Struggling with the ascent of one of China's most challenging hikes, adventurers equip themselves with AI-enhanced exoskeletons.
In recent years, advancements in exoskeleton technology have been making strides, with companies like Arc'teryx and Wandercraft leading the charge. These devices, powered by AI, are designed to enhance mobility and aid those with physical impairments.
One such example is the Arc'teryx MO/GO exoskeleton, designed specifically for elderly and injured hikers. The MO/GO exoskeleton pants, in partnership with Skip It, integrate carbon fiber robotic technology to aid in uphill climbs. Pre-orders for the MO/GO are now available, with a $100 deposit, and the device is due to ship towards the end of this year, boasting an eye-watering price tag of $4,500.
However, while these exoskeletons have shown promise in controlled or urban settings, concrete evidence from trials specifically focusing on challenging hiking routes like Mount Tai remains scarce. A week-long trial of an AI-powered exoskeleton took place on Mount Tai, a notoriously steep hiking route in China. But, as of now, no definitive trial results or reports of the trial's outcome have been published.
During the trial, Li Chengde, a 68-year-old hiker, reported that the exoskeleton felt like someone was pulling him uphill. While this suggests some level of effectiveness, other hikers expressed dissatisfaction, claiming that the devices lacked sufficient power and were inconvenient, especially during bathroom stops.
The trial was covered by the Xinhua News Agency, a state-run news agency in China, and CNN, with interviews from hikers who had used the exoskeletons. Despite the mixed reviews, the Hypershell X series of robotic exoskeletons, powered by an AI-controlled engine, is expected to hit the Chinese market next month.
As the technology continues to evolve, it's plausible that AI-powered exoskeletons could soon provide significant aid to elderly and injured hikers navigating tough hiking routes. However, for now, the effectiveness of these devices in such challenging conditions has yet to be conclusively demonstrated in reported trials.
