Researchers have developed the world’s first portable underwater exoskeleton to support the knee movement of divers. Created by a Peking University team, the development is expected to reduce the physical demands on divers, specifically air consumption and muscle effort.

Moving underwater is far more energetically demanding than walking on land because divers must continuously contend with water resistance. This constant struggle limits the diver’s endurance and operational range. The bilateral cable-driven underwater knee exoskeleton operates by providing real-time assistive torque to the knees, specifically targeting the flutter kick — the primary propulsion method for finned diving.  Moreover, advanced motion sensors and force-based control enable the system to integrate smoothly with how the diver naturally moves. The device could open new possibilities for applications in marine research, underwater construction, and professional diver training.