Honda Motor on Friday announced it will begin real-world testing of its second experimental walking assist device designed to reduce the strain on a user''s leg muscles and joints such as hips, knees and ankles. The device will supporting a portion of user''s body weight whether they''re crouching, walking or climbing stairs and is meant to help both those physically weakened with age or injury as well as workers who would need to reduce the stress on their bodies from heavy work or unusual positions.

The device will support users within two inches of its preset 5-foot, 7-inch user height. The entire system, including its lithium ion battery and shoes, weighs 14.3lbs, and uses two electric motors to assist users'' leg movement for up to two hours before a re-charge is required.