Human+Technology
Technology that extends and improves on human capabilities is not only available today, but you might find it in your next vehicle.
One of the most exciting areas of advanced development focuses on technology that expands on innate human ability. People can lift, see, speak, and run, but today, with almost incomprehensible design and engineering, we can see in the dark, use our voices to command action from machines, run longer, and lift more with far less effort. These technologies are not just useful tools, but add to core human capabilities, creating a Human+Technology paradigm. And that paradigm is playing out in innovations that can seem like science fiction come to life, but also might appear as features available in your next car or truck.
Out-of-This-World Innovation
Now imagine combining the major muscle power of suitX with increased grip strength, all in service of building Chevy cars and trucks. A General Motors/Chevrolet initiative transformed robotic technologies that were developed for use in space into a tool for those on Earth: a soft, wearable, strength-enhancing glove. The glove technology was then combined with the Soft Extra Muscle technology developed by Bioservo Technologies AB, a Swedish medical tech company. Bioservo developed the concept further and commercialized it under the name Ironhand.® Ironhand’s battery-powered actuators give wearers full dexterity to perform complex tasks with significantly increased strength.
Tested in an automotive preproduction facility, the glove reliably provided 15 to 20 pounds of extra force, and even 50 pounds in short bursts. The boost in power helps reduce muscle strain for workers and increases their productivity.
Beyond augmenting efficiency on Chevrolet assembly lines, Ironhand developers foresee practical uses in construction and warehouse industries, and for physical rehabilitation. Ironhand is another major step toward functional and practical Human+ exoskeletons.
