Honda's walking belt to assist the elderly someday

The Japanese are obsessed with robots, especially robo-helpers that could one day assist the elderly. Last year, the Tanagawa Institute of Technology showed off its bulky Air Pressure suit, which gave the wearer super human strength, and the ability to lift 220 pounds. The problem was the suit weighed almost 66 pounds, making it too heavy for the elderly to wear, but good for caregivers who have to carry patients.

Honda is doing something different to empower senior citizens. The company developed Walking Assist Device, a motorized belt that straps around a person's hips and thighs to help them lengthen their stride. Those with weak leg muscles can simply strap the six pound belt, and have sensors gauge just how much assistance they'll need in their walk.

Honda has been working on this experimental model since 1999, and is ready to showcase the prototype at an upcoming fair is Osaka, Japan. Those attending the trade show will have the opportunity to wear the Walking Assist Device, which uses some of the same technology found in Honda's humanoid robot ASIMO.