Honda is known for inventing bizarre mobility concepts such as the U3X and UNICUB. However, their latest device is already in production.

Honda is known for their quirky mobility concepts, such as the U3X or Uni-CUB. However, Honda’s latest device is now in production.

The Walking Assist Device (WAD) is unceremoniously called the exoskeleton-like belt. It’s designed for rehabilitation and physical therapy.

The WAD uses technology developed by ASIMO. It has an electronic control computer that activates electric engines “to improve the symmetry and timing of each leg lifting off the ground and extending forward.” Honda claims this allows patients to walk longer distances, which is beneficial for their health.

Although it looks bulky, it weighs less that 2.6 kg (5.7 pounds) and can be worn as a belt.

Honda will soon lease 100 WADs to hospitals in order to get feedback from users. These data will be used to improve the functionality of the device and its usability.