Benefits of Exoskeletons in Various Work Environments: Results of the Exoworkathlon Research
Intro
Industrial exoskeletons represent an innovative solution to reduce physical stress in jobs that require repetitive efforts and non-ergonomic postures. In this article, we will examine the benefits of exoskeletons in various work environments, comparing the differences between workers who use and do not use these devices, based on the results of the Exoworkathlon project.
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Exoworkathlon Research Methodology
The Exoworkathlon project used a prospective methodology to evaluate the effectiveness of exoskeletons in realistic work scenarios. Four work courses (“Parcours”) were developed to simulate common work situations in various industrial sectors, including logistics, automotive assembly, welding, and timber construction. Each Parcours was designed in collaboration with industry experts and representatives from occupational safety institutes to ensure that the conditions were as close to reality as possible.
Each participant performed the Parcours with and without an exoskeleton to allow for intra-individual comparison. Both objective and subjective data were collected, including muscle activity (using electromyography – EMG), work quality, and cardiovascular load. In addition, workers’ subjective feedback was gathered through questionnaires to assess perceived effort and comfort when using the exoskeletons.
The analysis also included quality parameters specific to each type of work, such as assembly precision and welding quality. This holistic approach allowed the collection of a wide range of data useful for understanding the impact of exoskeletons both in terms of reducing physical effort and increasing productivity.
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1. Logistics: Back Support
In the logistics sector, workers are often engaged in repetitive tasks such as lifting and carrying heavy loads, which can cause musculoskeletal problems. The use of back-support exoskeletons has been shown to significantly reduce tension on the lower back, providing ergonomic support during lifting tasks.
According to the study, workers wearing exoskeletons report less muscle fatigue and a greater ability to maintain ergonomic postures during repetitive tasks such as transporting 8 kg packages for long periods. This helps reduce the risk of injuries and improve workers’ overall well-being.
2. Automotive Assembly: Upper Limb Support
In the automotive industry, workers often have to perform tasks in elevated positions, such as assembly under vehicles. These tasks can cause muscle strain in the shoulders and neck. The use of exoskeletons for the upper limbs helps reduce muscle tension and improve precision in assembly operations.
Workers who used exoskeletons showed a significant reduction in shoulder muscle activity, as evidenced by reduced electromyographic (EMG) activity. Additionally, the study highlights an improvement in work quality, with reduced painting errors during finishing operations, thanks to the continuous support provided by the exoskeletons.
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3. Welding: Support for Constrained Positions
Welding is an activity that often requires working in non-ergonomic positions, such as with arms raised or overhead, with a high risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Upper limb exoskeletons help maintain a stable position, reducing fatigue and improving the quality of welds.
In the Exoworkathlon study, workers performed simulated welds both with and without an exoskeleton. The results show that using exoskeletons leads to better weld quality, with an average score 10% higher compared to workers not using exoskeletons. This demonstrates how the use of exoskeletons can contribute to greater precision and work quality.
4. Timber Construction: Collaborative Tasks
In the timber construction sector, workers often need to collaborate to lift and position heavy elements, such as wooden beams, which can cause high physical stress. The use of shoulder-support exoskeletons helps reduce the load during the lifting of these elements.
During the study, it was observed that pairs of workers wearing exoskeletons were able to lift and position heavy beams with less perceived effort compared to those not using them. This results in a lower incidence of injuries and greater efficiency in assembly processes.
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Conclusion
Economic Benefits for Employers
The use of exoskeletons not only improves workers’ well-being but also brings economic benefits to employers. A less fatigued worker is more productive and has a reduced risk of injury, which translates to fewer sick leaves and greater productive efficiency. The study observed that the use of exoskeletons in various work scenarios improved work pace and reduced the risk of errors, with a positive impact on operational costs.
Exoskeletons offer significant advantages in various work environments, reducing physical strain and improving work quality. These devices not only contribute to workers’ well-being but can also bring economic benefits to companies, increasing productivity and reducing the risk of injuries. With the ongoing development of technology, the use of exoskeletons may become increasingly widespread and an integral part of occupational health and safety practices.
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