At the 2024 CAA Graduation Exhibition, Yan Hai, a doctoral student from CAA’s Design Innovation Center(DIC), showcased his graduation project, “Man-Computer Symbiosis: BCI Exoskeleton”, which won a gold medal. The inspiration for this work stems from Yan’s profound concern for human health issues.

Yan recognizes that as carbon-based life forms, humans face numerous natural limitations. The challenges of aging, diseases such as strokes and spinal cord injuries, and the increasingly severe aging population in China underscore the fragility and constraints of human life. In light of these challenges, Yan believes there is a need to transcend traditional biological limits and explore technological possibilities to address these issues.

In stark contrast to human vulnerability, silicon-based intelligences (such as exoskeleton robots) exhibit unique potential. These exoskeletons can significantly enhance human strength and endurance, providing additional support and power to users. They transcend biological constraints and operate stably in various environments, showcasing the advantages and broad future prospects of silicon-based technology.

Yan’s exoskeleton technology design is analyzed from five key aspects: First, “People”, focusing on user needs, which is the core of the design; Second, “Situations”, referring to the application scenarios of the exoskeleton, such as aiding walking or rehabilitation; Third, “Objects”, referring to the exoskeleton device itself, which needs to be lightweight, durable, and intelligent; Fourth, “Contexts”, relating to the adaptation of the usage environment, particularly integration with national-level rehabilitation scenarios; Finally, “Mirrors”, which concerns the multi-layered structure of the product experience, aiming to provide a practical and user-friendly experience.

Through this comprehensive analysis and design, Yan has not only achieved technological breakthroughs but also proposed a new model of human-machine symbiosis at the intersection of art and technology, offering a fresh perspective on the future integration of technology and humanities.

Man-Computer Symbiosis: BCI Exoskeleton

Artist: Yan Hai  ( Design Innovation Center(DIC) )

Instructor: Wang Yun