EXOSKELETON MARKET ANALYSIS

Market Size and Trends

The global exoskeleton market is estimated to be valued at US$ 3.71 Bn in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 10.91 Bn by 2031, exhibiting at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.7% from 2024 to 2031.

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Ongoing advancement and continued R&D in exoskeleton technologies aimed at increased application across industrial and healthcare sectors is expected to drive the market growth. Increasing application of exoskeletons for rehabilitation of people with walking disabilities and paralysis is expected to support market gains. Growing use of exoskeletons by defense and military organizations to enhance soldier mobility and reduce fatigue is also poised to create new avenues for market participants. However, high product costs and lack of reimbursement policies related to medical exoskeletons may negatively impact the market in the short term. The key players operating in the market are making significant investments to develop affordable and user-friendly exoskeleton solutions.

Rising prevalence of workplace injuries

The global exoskeleton market is witnessing significant growth due to the rising prevalence of workplace injuries across different industry verticals. Strenuous activities involving repetitive motions, heavy lifting, and prolonged standing put significant strain on the body and often lead to musculoskeletal disorders over time. Jobs in manufacturing, construction, warehousing, and package delivery are particularly prone to such ergonomic challenges. Prolonged periods of standing on concrete floors can cause stress on the back and legs. Similarly, repetitive arm motions in automated production lines and assembly workstations increase the risk of injuries in shoulders, elbows, and wrists.

The constant stress often results in musculoskeletal disorders like tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and lower back pain among workers. With strict deadlines and delivery commitments in various industries, companies can afford such losses. Many are now actively looking for technological solutions to prevent injuries, promote wellness of workers, and optimize their operational efficiency.

Market Concentration and Competitive Landscape

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Addressing ageing workforce challenges

A major driver for the growing exoskeleton adoption is the challenge of an ageing workforce in developed economies. With improving life expectancy and declining birth rates, the average age of populations is rising steadily across regions like Europe, North America, Japan and Korea. This poses unique human resource challenges for companies with physically demanding job roles. Older workers face higher fatigue levels and are more prone to injuries while performing tasks involving manual handling, repetitive motions, and prolonged standing. It is difficult for them to sustain the same level of productivity as their younger colleagues.

At the same time, there is a severe shortage of new entrants into manufacturing and construction industries due to societal preferences of younger generations for more comfortable office jobs. This has started impacting business continuity plans of many companies. In this situation, exoskeletons can serve as a helpful assistive solution by reducing physical stress on the body and supporting extended performance of job tasks. They allow older employees and those recovering from injuries to stay active in work place and utilize their valuable skillsets and experience.

Key Takeaways from Analyst:

With rising geriatric population worldwide and growing demand for assistive devices, the Healthcare exoskeleton segment will continue to dominate the market. However, the industrial exoskeleton segment is expected to offer lucrative opportunities for players as it helps reduce workplace injuries and improves productivity.

On the supply side, advancement in material sciences is enabling lighter and more affordable exoskeleton solutions. Meanwhile, increasing interests from venture capital firms have boosted funding for startup exoskeleton companies. This will enhance research and development activities.

While costs remain a major restraint, growing insurance coverage for exoskeletons, especially in developed markets, will encourage more users to adopt these solutions. With more clinical data proving benefits, insurance firms are likely to increase reimbursements as well.

North America will likely maintain its lead. However, Asia Pacific is projected to emerge as the fastest growing regional market, led by China. Increasing labor costs are compelling Chinese manufacturers to adopt robotics and personal protective equipment like exoskeletons to supplement human workforce.

Market Challenges: Limited battery life

Limited battery life has emerged as a major challenge restricting the global adoption of exoskeletons. Exoskeletons are powered devices that augment human strength and endurance, allowing people to perform physically demanding tasks for longer durations. However, existing battery technologies are unable to provide sufficient power for the prolonged usage of exoskeletons over extended periods of time.

The battery backup of most commercially available exoskeletons lasts for only about 3-4 hours on a single charge. This falls well short of the operating shifts of 8 hours or more in labor-intensive industries where exoskeleton usage can prove transformative. Workers in manufacturing units, construction sites and logistics hubs need to wear exoskeletons for their entire duty times to derive optimized benefits. With batteries draining out quickly, exoskeletons have to be taken off midway for recharging, disrupting workflow, and lowering productivity gains. Addressing heavy duty cycle requirements continues to perplex developers.

Market Opportunities: Untapped application areas

There are several emerging application areas for exoskeletons that could drive significant growth in the global market. One major untapped area is using exoskeleton technologies to aid healthcare workers who are on their feet all day assisting patients. Exoskeletons can help reduce stress and fatigue for nurses, physicians, and other staff by supporting their joints and reducing ergonomic strain over long shifts. As populations age globally and healthcare demands rise, helping the workers on the frontlines will become increasingly important. This application could see widespread adoption in hospitals and elderly care facilities around the world in the coming years.

Another promising untapped area is using light exoskeletons designed for personal consumer and commercial use. Devices are being developed to assist with labor intensive jobs in construction, warehousing, and manual material handling. This could help workers lift heavier items, support fatigue over full work days, and reduce injury risks. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted demands for contactless delivery and shipping worldwide. Exoskeletons may soon play a role in supporting workers fulfilling skyrocketing e-commerce orders and last-mile deliveries. The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimated that there will be a 13% global increase in physically demanding jobs in non-routine manual sectors by 2030. Emerging exoskeleton technologies are well positioned to address these projections and future proof many industries.

As exoskeleton designs mature and costs come down, broader consumer and commercial adoption will further propel the global market upwards in the coming years. The potential for new application areas to emerge is high as technology and user demands continue to evolve in tandem. These trends point to significant growth opportunities for exoskeleton providers willing to innovate in untapped markets.

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Insights By Offering- Engineering Innovations Power Hardware Growth

In terms of Offering, the Hardware segment is estimated to account for 58.7% share of the market in 2024 owing to continuous engineering innovations to enhance exoskeleton capabilities. Hardware manufacturers constantly upgrade design and integrate latest technologies to tackle challenging physical tasks. Advanced powered mechanisms with customized fittings have widened their applications. New electrical and mechanical components improve weight distribution and accuracy of assisted movements. Use of durable composite materials and efficient battery systems boost hardware's operational efficiency. Simultaneously, focus on functionality and ergonomics facilitates long duration wear. Ability to interface with various software controls according to situational needs extends hardware's adaptability. Continuous customization as per anatomical variations expands their outreach. Collaborations with research institutes aid design thinking from diverse perspectives. Hardware players thus maintain edge over other offerings by resolutely furthering cutting-edge innovations.

Insights By product types - Clinical Evidence Consolidates Powered Exoskeleton Supremacy

Powered exoskeletons are estimated to hold 61.3% market share in 2024, driven by rising clinical credibility and tangible care outcomes. Extensive research has demonstrated their efficacy in assisting mobility for patients with spinal cord injuries or weakened muscles. Powered designs with rechargeable battery packs independently drive movements, boosting user autonomy. Accumulating case studies reassure therapists and patients, while regulatory approvals after rigorous testing strengthen commercialization prospects. Collaboration between manufacturers and clinicians helps custom-design exoskeletons for complicated conditions. Growing acceptance within neuro and orthopaedic rehabilitation bolsters powered exoskeleton market dominance as clinical evidence validates their superior assistive capabilities compared to passive designs.

Insights By application - Healthcare Demand Stimulates Overall Exoskeleton Adoption

The healthcare segment is estimated to hold 46.2% market share in 2024, driven by escalating demand for mobility assistance. Aging populations and the prevalence of disabling conditions worldwide augment this requirement. Exoskeletons enable therapists to start early interventions, potentially aiding complete recovery. They also allow patients to independently perform daily chores, enhancing quality of life. Participation in physical therapy is more effective and sustainable with exoskeleton-mediated gait rehabilitation and reduced fall risks. In some developed countries, healthcare insurers have started coverage for exoskeleton-based treatments, reinforcing their credentials. Promising outcomes across diverse indications including spinal injuries, multiple sclerosis, and paraplegia have established a foothold within clinical settings. This sustained healthcare demand subsequently increases adoption across other application spaces.

Regional Insights

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North America dominates the global exoskeleton market with an estimated 35.8% share in 2024, owing to strong presence of major exoskeleton manufacturers in the region. The U.S. houses headquarters of leading players like Ekso Bionics, Parker Hannifin, Rex Bionics, and Suit X which are extensively focusing on developing advanced exoskeleton solutions for healthcare and military applications. Moreover, large defense spending and continuous technological advancements in the country support product development activities.

Additionally, rising venture capital investments in exoskeleton startups have accelerated commercialization of various prototypes. The region is also an early adopter of exoskeleton technologies due to growing geriatric population and rising prevalence of diseases like stroke that limit mobility. Leading healthcare providers are actively pursuing clinical trials to evaluate benefits of exoskeleton-assisted therapy.

On the other hand, Asia Pacific  exoskeleton market is growing at the fastest pace and emerging as a major hub for exoskeleton manufacturing. Countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and India are aggressively investing in exoskeleton R&D activities to gain competitive edge in global trade. For example, the “Made in China 2025” strategy focuses on promoting local production of medical robots and assistive devices including exoskeletons. This has attracted global players to establish joint ventures with local manufacturers to leverage low labor costs and tap into the huge patient population in Asia Pacific region.

China in particular has emerged as the top exporter of low-cost exoskeleton components due to wide presence of electronics and automotive component suppliers. Considerable difference in pricing of exoskeleton systems in Asia Pacific compared to other regions is another factor fueling sales growth. Additionally, Asia Pacific countries are witnessing rapid aging which is anticipated to significantly drive the demand for exoskeleton-assisted rehabilitation and care in the coming years.

Market Report Scope

Key Developments

• In October 2023, Wandercraft SAS, a developer of autonomous walking exoskeletons, launched commercial operations of its latest exoskeleton, Atalante X, in the U.S. This innovative solution is designed to assist individuals with mobility impairments, offering a hands-free and self-balancing option for rehabilitation and independence.
• In December 2022, Ekso Bionics, a leading developer of exoskeleton technologies for medical and industrial applications, announced the acquisition of Parker Hannifin Corporation's Human Motion and Control (HMC) business unit, which includes the Indego line of FDA-cleared lower limb exoskeletons for home and clinical use, as well as plans for future robotic-assisted orthotic and prosthetic devices. The US$ 10 million deal expands Ekso's product portfolio, adds key research partnerships with institutions like Vanderbilt University, and positions the company as a leader in lower extremity robotic mobility solutions across the continuum of care.
• In June 2022, CYBERDYNE Inc., a leading Japan-based robotics and cybernics technology company, announced a collaborative initiative with Malaysia's Social Security Organization (SOCSO) to expand the availability of Cybernics Treatment using CYBERDYNE's Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) exoskeleton technology for SOCSO-insured patients. This partnership has enabled more Malaysians with neurological conditions to access this advanced robotic rehabilitation system, which helps restore mobility and support their return to work, contributing to the country's economic and social well-being.
• In April 2022, Ottobock, a global leader in healthcare technology, announced the launch of the Ottobock Shoulder, a next-generation exoskeleton designed to provide support during strenuous overhead work in industries such as logistics, production, maintenance, and manufacturing. Ottobock Shoulder is an evolution of the company's previous Paexo Shoulder model, incorporating user feedback and technological advancements to enhance comfort, ease of use, and productivity for workers.
• In December 2021, German Bionic, a leading developer of smart robotic exoskeletons, announced the launch of its fifth-generation Cray X model. The Cray X is an AI-enhanced power suit that can provide up to 66 pounds (30 kg) of lifting assistance, helping to reduce the risk of back injuries and repetitive strain for workers at companies like IKEA and BMW. The latest version of the Cray X features active walking support, waterproofing for outdoor use, and an improved battery system, further expanding the applications of this wearable robotic technology.
• In November 2021, Ottobock announced the acquisition of suitX, a US-based company specializing in occupational and medical exoskeletons, to accelerate the adoption of wearable robotics technology worldwide. The two companies are combining their complementary product portfolios and expertise to become a world-leading provider of exoskeleton solutions for industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare.

*Definition: The global exoskeleton market consists of medical exoskeletons and industrial exoskeletons developed using latest robotics technology. These power-assist robotic structures are externally worn to enhance or restore human performance for various applications. Medical exoskeletons help physically-disabled patients in rehabilitation therapy, while industrial exoskeletons assist workers in manufacturing, construction, and logistics industries by reducing physical strain and risk of injuries from activities requiring extensive manual labor over long hours. The global market is expanding rapidly due to growing need for industrial automation and medical devices for rehabilitation and elderly care.

Market Segmentation

• Offering Insights (Revenue, US$ Bn, 2019 - 2031)
  • Hardware
  • Software
•  Product Type Insights (Revenue, US$ Bn, 2019 - 2031)
  • Powered
  • Passive
•  Application Insights (Revenue, US$ Bn, 2019 - 2031)
  • Healthcare
  • Defense
  • Industrial
  • Others
• Regional Insights (Revenue, US$ Bn, 2019 - 2031)
  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Mexico
    • Rest of Latin America
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • U.K.
    • Spain
    • France
    • Italy
    • Russia
    • Rest of Europe
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
    • Australia
    • South Korea
    • ASEAN
    • Rest of Asia Pacific
  • Middle East & Africa
    • GCC Countries
    • Israel
    • South Africa
    • Rest of Middle East & Africa
• Key Players Insights
  • Bionik Laboratories
  • Cyberdyne Inc.
  • Ekso Bionics Holdings, Inc.
  • Hocoma AG
  • Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
  • Lockheed Martin Corporation
  • Ottobock
  • Parker Hannifin Corp.
  • Rewalk Robotics Ltd.
  • Rex Bionics Ltd.
  • Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation
  • Technaid S.L.
  • Wandercraft
  • Wearable Robotics srl
  • Willow Wood