Roam Robotics
"Reinventing Human Possibilities"
San Francisco exoskeleton company using pneumatic actuators to build lightweight knee braces for military and osteoarthritis patients; raised $12M Series A.
Roam Robotics is a San Francisco, California-based wearable robotics company founded in 2012 by Dr. Tim Swift, who serves as CEO. The company develops pneumatic-powered exoskeleton systems targeting both military and medical markets, with a dual-use platform designed to augment human strength and endurance.
Roam's core technology uses compliant air actuators fabricated from high-strength polymers, carbon fiber, and 3D-printed metals. By using pneumatic actuation rather than traditional electric motors, Roam achieves a power-to-weight ratio that enables effective assistive torque without the bulk and weight of metal-and-motor designs. The system employs a modular architecture: a wearable Power Pack — housing a MIL-STD rechargeable battery and smart power algorithm — connects to a Robotic Knee Brace that generates torque through controlled air pressure.
The flagship product for military applications is the Forge exoskeleton, initially developed with U.S. military backing to increase soldiers' endurance, speed, and strength in field conditions. Published performance data from testing includes: 2x increase in squat repetitions at 75% bodyweight, 2x increase in deadlift repetitions at 150% bodyweight, 3.5x increase in maximum wall-sit time holding 55 lbs, and a 30% reduction in exertion during a 3,000 lb pallet-pushing task.
For the medical market, Roam developed the Ascend robotic knee brace, targeting patients with knee osteoarthritis. In a clinical study, Ascend reduced pain in 46% of participants and improved functionality in 67% of participants. The Ascend was priced at approximately $7,000 at launch, using lightweight fabric and plastic construction. Roam has also partnered with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to test its robotic knee brace in clinical settings.
Roam Robotics raised $12 million in a Series A round led by Yamaha Motor Co., with participation from Boost VC, Heuristics Capital Partners, Menlo Ventures, R7 Partners, Spero Ventures, Valor Equity Partners, and Venture Investment Associates. The company's technology has been disclosed under U.S. DoD visual information policies, reflecting its active military testing programs.
Primary type & automation activities this supplier delivers:
Forge Military Exoskeleton
Ruggedized pneumatic knee exoskeleton for military use; doubles squat and deadlift endurance and reduces exertion during load-carrying tasks.
Ascend Robotic Knee Brace
- Model: Ascend
- Launch Year: 2021
Pneumatic smart knee orthosis for osteoarthritis patients; reduced pain in 46% and improved functionality in 67% of clinical study participants.
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Contact Roam Robotics
WEBSITE
https://www.roamrobotics.comPHONE
+1 415 949-7626HEADQUARTERS
United States
Company Facts
Founded
2012
Primary Role
Manufacturer
Company Size
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Primary Region
North America
Annual Sales
-
Funding Stage
-
Funding Total
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