Held at the end of 2023 in the South of France, the 6th SophI.A Summit concluded with an awards ceremony. Among the recognized entities, Somanity stood out, securing the “Artificial Intelligence For Humanity” prize for its development of a 3D-printed exoskeleton infused with artificial intelligence aimed at restoring mobility for individuals with disabilities at an affordable price.
The startup, deeply rooted in human values and environmental sustainability, is currently in the fundraising phase. Founder Mathieu Merian said:
“When I was 17, I established my3D, a company specializing in prototyping and 3D printing. In 2021, the idea of 3D printing an exoskeleton equipped with artificial intelligence to aid a friend with multiple sclerosis led to the inception of the Somanity project.
Originally developed under my3D, the decision was made in 2023 to separate the two entities to expedite Somanity’s development.”
Using artificial intelligence, Somanity empowers individuals who have lost the ability to stand, walk or climb stairs. The startup collaborates with the Association des Paralysés de France, conducting workshops to better understand the needs of those for whom the exoskeleton is designed.
The Mark-1 Cutting-Edge Exoskeleton
The Somanity’s Mark-1 exoskeleton represents a cutting-edge exoskeleton designed to enhance the quality of life for patients facing mobility loss. With its ergonomic design and advanced features, it provides individuals affected by various medical conditions the opportunity to regain increased mobility and reclaim their independence.
Whether for individuals who have experienced an accident, people with neurological disorders, or those in the rehabilitation phase, the Mark-1 delivers precise and personalized assistance to each user.
Somanity is steadfast in its commitment to make the medical exoskeleton accessible to a wide audience by offering an affordable solution without compromising on quality and performance. The core of the technology lies in the design of an innovative prototype resulting from the integration of leading technologies, such as additive manufacturing. The company said:
“We employ the latest technologies and tools to ensure scalability, efficiency and the security of our solutions. Our team follows agile methodologies to deliver projects on time and within budget while maintaining the highest standards of quality and user experience.”
Affordable Solution
The exoskeleton features the integration of artificial intelligence for an optimal user experience. The Mark-1 stands out for its remarkable flexibility, easily adapting to the individual needs of users. It provides precise and adaptive assistance to body movements, allowing patients to walk, climb stairs and perform daily tasks with greater ease and confidence. Finally, the Mark-1 can be used in rehabilitation programs to strengthen weakened muscles and promote faster recovery after an injury or surgical intervention.
Somanity’s 3D-printed exoskeleton aims for affordability and sustainability. The technology allows for cost and time savings in engineering by enabling the continuous printing and refinement of parts until optimal creation. This efficiency results in a substantially lower acquisition cost compared to current market offerings, aligning with Somanity’s commitment to delivering high-quality service in line with its values. The company explained:
“We are developing an affordable solution to make this essential technology accessible to the widest possible audience. By restoring the ability of patients to move autonomously, the Mark-1 helps restore self-confidence, self-esteem, and overall quality of life.”
With an eye on a 2026 market launch, Somanity is actively seeking €2 million in its first round of financing. The funds will support completing the legal certification process by 2025, and the startup plans to expand its team with professionals in robotics and biomechanics, currently comprising around ten engineers and project managers.
A Substantial Market
The Somanity exoskeleton will be accessible to hospitals, clinics and rehabilitation centers, with distribution through medical equipment retailers. The potential market is substantial, as Mathieu Merian noted:
“Currently, 25 million people worldwide suffer from severe physical disabilities and over 75 million experience motor disabilities. Additionally, there are those in need of rehabilitation or elderly home care.
Our exoskeleton is primarily designed to assist those with disabilities, with the broader aim of aiding millions facing challenges related to the loss of physical autonomy.”
