Shoulder-Support Exoskeletons for Overhead Work: Current State, Challenges and Future Directions

Reyes, Francisco Anaya; Ding, Shuo; Huang, Yu

doi:10.1109/tmrb.2023.3275761

Cited by 6 publications

(1 citation statement)

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“…Inadequate material handling practices are a primary source of workplace injuries and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), particularly those affecting the lower back, which are pervasive in manufacturing environments. An approximate 27.8% of injuries in the workplace within the industrial sector are 2 attributed to MSDs [4]. MSDs, especially back-related issues caused by excessive bio-mechanical strain, have substantial economic and social ramifications, affecting personal health and placing a strain on healthcare systems [5].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Evaluating Efficacy of Passive Occupational Exoskeleton for Enhancing Ergonomic Outcomes in Manufacturing

Davoudi Kakhki,

Moghadam,

Nieto

et al. 2024

Preprint

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Manual material handling (MMH) significantly impacts worker health and productivity, often leading to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) primarily in the lower back. As a novel assistive technology, exoskeletons may serve as ergonomic tools to mitigate these work-related MSDs. It is essential to examine exoskeletons from the users’ perspectives before their widespread implementation in occupational settings. This study investigates the effectiveness of a passive back-support exoskeleton (BExo) in reducing perceived physical exertion and improving ergonomic safety in manufacturing context. Twenty-two college students were recruited to perform MMH tasks in a controlled lab environment, both with and without the BExo, followed by completing a survey questionnaire on various aspects of the BExo. Using ANOVA, the study analyzed biomechanical exertion across various body parts and tasks. The findings indicate that the BExo substantially alleviates discomfort in the low back, shoulders and knees, thereby, enhancing ergonomic posture and reducing fatigue. These results underscore the potential of passive exoskeletons to boost workers’ safety and efficiency, providing valuable insights for future ergonomic strategies in industrial setting.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%