AnyBody Technology
AnyBody Technology develops the AnyBody Modeling System, the world’s most advanced software for musculoskeletal simulation. Their technology allows researchers to create digital twins of the human body and simulate the physical interaction with wearable robotic devices. It is used by the exoskeleton industry to optimize design, predict muscle force reduction, and evaluate ergonomic impact before […]
Maxon
Maxon is a world-renowned manufacturer of high-precision motors, gearheads, and motor control systems. Their drive systems are central to the development of many leading exoskeletons and prosthetics, offering high efficiency and power-to-weight ratios. They provide enabling technology through a dedicated medical robotics division focusing on the specific requirements of wearable systems.
Harmonic Drive
Harmonic Drive develops and manufactures high-precision gear systems and servo actuators. Their strain wave gears (often called ‘Harmonic Drives’) are an industry standard for robotic joint actuation due to their high torque density and zero-backlash characteristics. They provide enabling technology for high-end medical and industrial exoskeletons where precise positioning and weight reduction are critical.
Novanta
Novanta, through its Celera Motion business unit, provides high-precision motion control components. Their product line includes encoders, servo drives, and motors that are critical ‘enabling technologies’ for the wearable robotics industry. They specialize in high-torque, compact motion solutions for medical exoskeletons and industrial human-augmentation systems.
FAULHABER
FAULHABER specializes in the development and manufacture of high-precision miniature motors and drive systems. Their BLDC motors, stepper motors, and precision gearheads are key enabling technologies for compact wearable robotic systems, such as robotic gloves and orthotic joints. They provide critical components for manufacturers requiring high power density in extremely small packages.
TQ-Systems (RoboDrive)
TQ-Systems, through its RoboDrive brand, manufactures high-torque density BLDC motors and drive systems. Their ILM-E frameless motor series is specifically optimized for weight and performance in wearable robotics, used by numerous exoskeleton manufacturers to achieve smooth human-robot interaction. They operate as a tier-1 component supplier for the global human augmentation market.
AVIC Exoskeleton R&D
AVIC develops industrial wearable robotic systems to support its aviation manufacturing and maintenance operations. Their focus is on passive and active systems for overhead work and heavy lifting in aircraft hangars and assembly plants. They utilize advanced materials and control logic derived from aviation systems to improve worker safety and productivity.
Kinetic
Kinetic develops wearable technology to prevent workplace injuries. Their flagship device, the Reflex, is a sensor-based wearable that detects high-risk movements such as improper lifting or twisting and provides real-time haptic biofeedback to the user. The system also tracks ergonomics data for safety managers to identify high-risk areas in logistics and manufacturing operations.
Palladyne AI
Palladyne AI, formerly Sarcos Technology and Robotics, is now focused on AI software for robotics. The company is historically important to the exoskeleton sector because Sarcos developed the Guardian XO full-body powered industrial exoskeleton. The Guardian XO hardware should be treated as a legacy or paused exoskeleton program unless refreshed evidence confirms active commercialization.
Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin develops exoskeleton systems for military and heavy industrial use. Key projects include ONYX, a powered lower-limb exoskeleton for soldier endurance, and FORTIS, a passive system for managing heavy tool weight in industrial environments. These systems are part of broader human augmentation research.