For the first time, engineers at the Wes Institute of Bioengineering at Harvard University have developed smart shorts that increase wearer's ability to walk and run.
This lightweight motorized suit can help the elderly or disabled people to walk and can boost athletes' performance.
The device, called "Robo Short", determines the way the wearer moves and adjusts accordingly to make walking and running more efficient in terms of energy use.
Smart pants are worn like regular shorts, but they have sensors that can tell if a person is running or walking by detecting changes in leg and torso position, then respond accordingly and help make movement easier.
A motor mounted at the back of the pants operates a cable that helps the extensor thigh muscles and also reduces the body's energy.
Research results published in the journal Science showed that pants reduce the energy spent on walking by 9.3% and running by 4%. The tests were conducted on closed-circuit electrical devices.
"We were excited to see that the device was doing well during hard walking, jogging at different speeds and while testing on the ground in open places, which showed the versatility of the system," said Connor Walsh, a Wes Institute researcher who led the study.
"Our study shows that there can be a portable robot that can be worn to help do more than just one activity, which helps pave the way for the existence of these systems in all areas of our lives."
The robo shorts weigh five kilograms and more than 90% of their weight is close to the center of body mass.
Study teams continue to develop robotics in the hope of reducing their weight and making it easier to use.
"This advanced study gives us a glimpse into a future in which wearable devices can improve the lives of healthy people, as well as serving those with injuries or those in need of rehabilitation," said Donald Anger, director of the Wes Institute.