Our member IPS – Institute for Production Systems at the Technical University of Dortmund invited participants to test themselves in a workshop on October 29, 2024: What do exoskeletons look like, how do they feel and how do they provide support?
The Institute of Production Systems (IPS) has been researching the topic of exoskeletons and how they can support employees in production and logistics for some time now. After a brief round of introductions, Felix Terschluse from IPS guided us through the informative morning.
A basic definition of exoskeletons describes them as assistance systems that are worn on the body and have a mechanical effect on it. In an occupational context, they are intended to support the functions of the skeletal and musculoskeletal system during physical work.
The first step was to get to know some examples of exoskeletons in the areas of sport, industrial purposes, medical and military applications.
Exoskeletons can reduce musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and reduce overexertion. Around 60 percent of work-related illnesses include these. In most cases, they are caused by repetitive hand or arm movements, lifting and carrying heavy loads, certain constrained postures or enduring vibrations from tools.
During the workshop, participants were able to test four different exoskeletons and try them out for themselves. It became clear that their functions are primarily focused on supporting the back and shoulders. Soft and rigid forms are possible, while the firmer ones are very rigid on the body and can restrict freedom of movement.
It is therefore important to carefully examine the activities for which employees can use this support. Acceptance depends largely on this. The IPS is continuing its research into how exoskeletons can be used. In the future, a practice-oriented expert guide for identifying suitable workplaces and selecting exoskeletons could be developed, based on the experience of past field studies.
If you are interested in the topic of exoskeletons, the IPS will be happy to help. NIRO would like to thank Felix Terschluse for the informative morning and is always pleased when the Institute of Production Systems brings the latest developments in science and research so close to us (this time directly on the body).
