Smartex
Smartex develops innovative ‘smart textiles’ that integrate physiological sensors (ECG, breathing, movement) directly into garments. Their technology is a key ‘enabling tool’ for the soft exosuit and wearable robotics industry, providing the sensing layer required for monitoring user status and device control. They focus on textile-based biofeedback for health, sports, and industrial safety.
Wearable Robotics Association (WearRA)
WearRA is the primary global industry association for wearable robotics. It brings together manufacturers, researchers, clinical professionals, and government agencies to facilitate the adoption and advancement of exoskeleton technologies. The organization focuses on industry standards, education, and organizing the annual WearRAcon conference, acting as a central ecosystem provider for the market.
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.
Xsens
Xsens develops inertial sensor modules and motion capture systems used for precise movement tracking in research, entertainment, and health. Their technology is a key enabling tool for the exoskeleton industry, providing the high-fidelity kinematics data required for biomechanical analysis and the control of active wearable robotic systems.
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.
Noraxon
Noraxon develops high-end biomechanical sensors and motion capture systems used for human movement analysis. Their portfolio includes wireless electromyography (EMG), inertial sensors (IMU), and pressure-sensing tools. These systems are widely used as ‘enabling technology’ for the evaluation of exoskeletons and the development of bio-signal controlled wearable robotics in clinical and research contexts.
EASE – Ergonomische Assistenzsysteme
EASE develops active (powered) wearable assistants for the logistics and manufacturing sectors. Their primary product is a lightweight active exoskeleton designed to support the arms and shoulders during lifting and carrying tasks. The system utilizes AI-supported intention recognition and high-performance TQ-RoboDrive motors to provide seamless assistance with minimal delay.