Ascentiz

Most exoskeletons arrive as a single fixed frame. Ascentiz takes a different approach: a Hip Module and a Knee Module that can be worn alone or together, both secured by a Modular Belt that also houses the battery. According to the maker, the Hip Module alone suits easing load on uphill walks, the Knee Module alone targets impact on stairs, and the combined H+K set is meant for situations such as long-distance hiking.

AI Motion and three assist modes

The control layer, called AI Motion, feeds real-time proprioceptive data from built-in magnetic encoders and an IMU into a compact neural network that predicts muscle force. The maker says all computation runs on the exoskeleton's own processor, with no cloud processing or external data transmission. Three modes are offered: Ease, for reducing leg strain during everyday walking and on slopes; ACC, which actively guides steps on long routes and steep inclines; and Train, which adds resistance to turn walking and squats into exercise.

In Train mode, the maker claims up to 44lbs (about 20kg) of dynamic resistance, 1.7 times the usual calorie burn, and a 30% increase in heart rate and muscle activation (RM).

Hardware, per the maker

• Quasi-direct drive joints: 52Nm/kg power density, 36Nm peak torque, 900W instantaneous output
• FOC (Field-Oriented Control) reaching 0 to 90% sprint power in 20ms
• Overall weight cut by 33% after 16 prototypes and simulation work
• Operating noise of 35dB or less
• Operating range of -20℃ (-4°F) to 60℃ (140°F), with dust and water resistance
• Vibration-table testing combining sine, random and shock tests
• Thermoplastic nylon and aluminum alloy described as 100% recyclable; wear-prone connecting parts designed to be replaceable
• Rechargeable, swappable battery built into the Modular Belt

Built to be modified

Swappable magnetic covers handle cosmetics, while open-source assist settings let users tune assist strength and mode response. The maker says designs for decorative covers and magnetic expansion modules are open-sourced as well. A Linux-based compute unit is planned for the Ultra version, with an SDK and API via BodyOS, Ascentiz's operating system, offering low-level access to IMU, barometer, encoder and motor data in languages including C, C++, Python and Matlab. The team also plans a developer forum and an MIT-licensed GitHub repository.

The Kickstarter project lists two versions. Pro comes with a 1-year Kickstarter-exclusive warranty in Obsidian Night or Meteorite Gray; Ultra carries an 18-month Kickstarter-exclusive warranty in Obsidian Titanium, Meteorite Titanium or Natural Titanium. Both are offered as an H+K set, Hip only or Knee only.