ATOUN
ATOUN was a JPN Panasonic subsidiary that developed and commercialized power-assisted wearable exoskeletons for logistics, construction, and caregiving.
ATOUN Inc. was a Japanese exoskeleton manufacturer headquartered in Nara City, Nara Prefecture, Japan. The company was established in 2003 through Panasonic Corporation's in-house venture system, originally under the name ActiveLink Co., Ltd. ATOUN was later rebranded to reflect its focus on power-assisted wearable robotics under the Panasonic group.
ATOUN's core product line, branded as Powered Wear, consisted of motorized hip and back support exoskeletons designed to reduce physical strain on workers engaged in manual lifting and material handling. The company's mission was to achieve a 'Power-Barrierless Society' — enabling people of all ages and genders to work without physical limitation.
The company's flagship commercial product was the ATOUN MODEL Y (also known as AWN-12), a hip-support power assist suit launched in April 2018. The MODEL Y represented a 40% weight reduction compared to earlier models (such as the AWN-03). It used built-in motors and straps that tightened and loosened in sync with the wearer's movement to reduce lumbar spine stress. A second commercial product, Model +kote (AWN-32), provided arm support functionality.
ATOUN also developed a walking assist prototype called HIMICO, which used wire-type walking assist technology licensed from Panasonic's Business Innovation Division. This device aimed to offer a natural gait support experience that was easier to don and doff than conventional assistive devices.
ATOUN's products were deployed at logistics centers, construction sites, factories, farms, and elder care facilities across Japan. The company demonstrated its technology at international venues including CES 2018 and 2019 in Las Vegas, and participated in joint development projects in Hong Kong for construction site applications. ATOUN dissolved as a corporate entity in April 2022, with after-sales support transferred to Advance Co. Ltd. The technology lineage continues within Panasonic's broader robotics and wearables portfolio.
Primary type & automation activities this supplier delivers:
ATOUN MODEL Y (AWN-12)
Motorized hip-support exoskeleton (40% lighter than predecessor) for reducing lumbar strain during manual lifting in logistics and construction.
HIMICO Walking Assist Prototype
Prototype wire-driven walking assistance exoskeleton designed to provide natural gait support and easy donning/doffing.
Contact ATOUN
WEBSITE
https://www2.panasonic.bizPHONE
+81 6-6908-1121HEADQUARTERS
Japan
Company Facts
Founded
2003
Primary Role
Manufacturer
Company Size
-
Primary Region
Asia-Pacific
Annual Sales
-
Funding Stage
-
Funding Total
-
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