Russian inventor Andrey Molchanov presented a new lightweight exoskeleton for the military. The design includes a carbon power frame, adjustable fasteners, and a system for uniform load distribution when transporting equipment.

The design is intended to reduce the load on the muscles of the upper body, shoulder girdle, and spine when using heavy military equipment. Unlike active systems with electric drives, the new development belongs to passive exoskeletons, which operate due to the mechanics of materials and elastic elements. Such solutions are used to relieve the musculoskeletal system when carrying loads and equipment.

The basis of the exoskeleton is a multi-layered carbon plate, combining cervical, thoracic, and lumbar sections. The structure is made of carbon fiber and can be adjusted in height to fit the user's back. The chest part has slots that allow the torso to remain mobile.

According to patent description, the mass of the carbon plate can be no more than 1.5 kg with a thickness of about 5 mm and using up to 15 layers of carbon fiber.

The fastening system includes shoulder straps with elastomeric elements, adjustable slings, and a waist section with fixation according to the anatomical features of the person. The inner part of the straps received a ventilation mesh to increase comfort during prolonged wear.

One of the features of the design is two carbon shoulder arches, designed for installing additional equipment. They are connected to a quick-release fastener made of polyacetal, which allows quick installation or removal of equipment elements.

The exoskeleton also received lumbar support with a nylon cushion and soft filler. The developer notes that this scheme should reduce pressure on the spine and reduce the load on the shoulders when carrying heavy equipment.

The design uses energy that elastomeric elements accumulate during human movement. When straightening, part of this energy is returned, helping to reduce muscle effort. At the same time, the thoracic and lumbar sections retain the possibility of relative movement, which allows for side bends and torso turns.