MileBot

MileBot Robotics has established itself as a specialized manufacturer of rehabilitation exoskeletons in China, with a particular focus on compliant actuator technology that enables more natural human-robot interaction during gait training. Founded in 2016 by a team of overseas-trained engineers, the company has deployed its systems across more than 210 hospitals and rehabilitation centers.

Company Overview

Headquartered in Shenzhen’s Nanshan Science Park, MileBot was co-founded by Chen Gong (CEO), Ye Jing (CTO), and Hu Feng (COO). The founding team brings academic backgrounds from institutions including National University of Singapore, Waseda University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and Huazhong University of Science and Technology.

The company positions itself around a core technological differentiator: proprietary compliant actuators that replace rigid servo motors found in conventional exoskeletons. This approach enables force-controlled movement that adapts to patient resistance and voluntary effort, supporting active training modes where patients contribute to their own movement rather than being passively guided.

MileBot has received National High-Tech Enterprise certification and maintains ISO 13485 quality management system certification for medical device manufacturing.

Core Products

BEAR-H Series

The flagship product line for adult lower limb rehabilitation. BEAR-H1, launched commercially in 2021, supports both active and passive training modes with 6 powered joints (bilateral hip, knee, and ankle). The system accommodates patients 150-190cm in height and under 85kg. Marketing materials describe it as the world’s first rehabilitation exoskeleton powered by compliant actuators.

BEAR-A Series

A fixed-frame lower limb rehabilitation system for adult patients with locomotor dysfunction. Unlike the H-series, the A-series operates primarily in passive training mode and is mounted on a standing frame with fall protection.

RELAX-C Series

Pediatric rehabilitation exoskeleton designed for children between 90-150cm in height. The system operates with preset rehabilitation programs targeting conditions including cerebral palsy and pediatric stroke.

MAX Series

Lightweight gait assist systems available in M-series (medical device) and F-series (consumer mobility aid) configurations. The M-series targets patients transitioning from clinical rehabilitation to community ambulation.

Technology & Innovation

MileBot’s core technology centers on its proprietary compliant actuators—mechanical transmission systems that incorporate elastic elements to absorb and store energy. This design approach offers several advantages for rehabilitation applications: reduced impact forces during heel strike, the ability to sense patient-applied torque for active assist modes, and backdrivability that allows natural movement when power is removed.

The company has integrated EMG signal analysis into its control systems, enabling the exoskeleton to detect muscle activation patterns and adjust assistance levels dynamically. This approach supports neuroplasticity-focused rehabilitation protocols where patient effort is progressively challenged.

Additional technical features include real-time gait monitoring with data logging, multiple training modes (continuous walking, single-step, leg swing), and touchscreen interfaces for therapist control and patient progress tracking.

Market Presence

MileBot reports partnerships with over 210 hospitals and universities across China. The company targets full-service rehabilitation centers, stroke units within general hospitals, and specialized neurological rehabilitation facilities.

In 2022, MileBot received strategic investment from Wego Group (through Shangyuan Fund) and established a joint venture with Wego Orthopedics (688161.SH) to develop orthopedic rehabilitation products. This partnership aims to create an integrated pathway from surgical intervention through post-operative rehabilitation.

The company maintains both Chinese-language (milebot.com.cn) and international English-language (mile-bot.com) websites, indicating ambitions for international market expansion. Marketing materials reference compliance with FDA and CE standards, though specific clearance documentation has not been independently verified.

Key Milestones

• 2016: Company founded in Shenzhen Nanshan Science Park
• 2018: Completed Pre-A funding round (Share Capital lead, Lenovo Capital follow)
• 2020: Completed A round funding (Zhuhai Keliu, Lenovo Capital, Zhejiang Dening)
• 2021: BEAR-H1 commercial launch
• 2022: Strategic investment from Wego Group; joint venture established with Wego Orthopedics
• 2025: Completed A+ round funding

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions can MileBot exoskeletons treat?

MileBot systems are designed for patients with lower limb motor dysfunction resulting from stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. The pediatric RELAX-C series additionally addresses cerebral palsy and developmental motor disorders.

Are MileBot products available outside China?

MileBot maintains an international website and references FDA/CE compliance, but specific international regulatory clearances and distribution partnerships have not been publicly confirmed. The primary market remains mainland China.

How does compliant actuator technology differ from traditional exoskeletons?

Conventional exoskeletons use rigid servo motors that move to predetermined positions regardless of patient input. Compliant actuators incorporate elastic elements that allow the system to sense and respond to patient-applied forces, enabling active-assist training modes where patients contribute to their own movement.