WSF1 Vision is a next-generation wearable robot for people with paraplegia that translates complex robotics engineering into intuitive, human-centred, and emotionally resonant design, giving them back the freedom to move without anyone’s assistance with dignity and style.  

The WSF1 Vision Concept was commissioned by Angel Robotics and developed as a next-generation wearable robot for individuals with paraplegia. This concept was based on the 2024 Cybathlon gold medal-winning WalkON Suit F1 prototype, which was developed in collaboration with Angel Robotics, Exo Lab, and Move Lab. Move Lab in the Department of Industrial Design at KAIST translated complex robotic engineering into an intuitive and emotionally engaging human-centred mobility design, proposing a new direction where technology and design coexist in harmony.

figure 1 WSF1 Vision Concept, 2025 KAIST ID Exhibition at Nodeul Gallery walk (source: Move Lab)

figure 2 WSF1 Vision Concept how it helps you walk (source: Move Lab)

Designed for independent use, it features a front-loading mechanism, autonomous walking function, and twelve high-torque actuators that enable natural, crutch-free mobility (Figures 1 and 2). Aesthetically, the design draws inspiration from automotive and fashion design, while the concept is also intended as a lifestyle personal mobility system that not only transports the user but also supports dignity and confidence.  

figure 3 WSF1 Vision Concept donning sequence (source: Move Lab)

The most innovative feature of this platform is its front-loading donning process, where the user does not need external assistance from another person. While conventional wearable exoskeletons for paraplegic users need to be donned by someone else due to their bulky load and back-mounted main systems, the WSF1 Vision Concept autonomously approaches the user and kneels down to dock itself to the user, then lifts the user up to start walking (figure 3). The robot provides a self-balancing function that frees the user from using crutches, adding another significant layer of freedom by freeing both hands. The twelve powerful actuators allow exceptional power and accuracy to provide natural movement.

figure 4 WSF1 Vision Concept centre mounted display for navigation and interaction (source: Move Lab)

In addition to these features, the WSF1 Vision Concept offers another level of human–robot interaction through the centre-mounted display, which folds out to become a SAT NAV system. The user can simply press a point on the map on the screen, and the robot will walk to the destination, while featuring downward vision and rear-view feeds on the display to ensure the user feels secure during the walk (figure 4). The screen can be folded toward the front so it functions as a friendly interactive display for other pedestrians, as well as a status monitor. The signature lighting on the edges of the display works as a safety beacon, along with LED lights flowing through the silhouette of the body up, down, front, and back, capturing key lines and working as an aesthetic signature.

figure 5 WSF1 Vision Concept extensive use of soft fabric (source: Move Lab)

The WSF1 Vision Concept also features extensive use of soft fabric that makes this robot stand out. All touchpoints are covered in 1.6 mm neoprene, ensuring the user is protected from hard mechanical components and cold plastic. Moving parts such as joints are connected with the same material, boasting a sinuous silhouette that conveys warm emotional feedback. The fabric softens the robot’s mechanical impression, giving it a more approachable and human-centred character (figure 5). As a result, the concept has been recognized with the 2025 Red Dot Design Award: Best of the Best in the Professional Design Concept category, praised for balancing technical sophistication with aesthetic expression and user dignity (figure 6).

figure 6 WSF1 Vision Concept details (source: Move Lab)