Progress in science & practice
Current research trends in exoskeletons
The development of and research into exoskeletons has experienced remarkable momentum in recent years. Originally designed for medical applications, these technological innovations are increasingly being used in industrial and logistical contexts as well as in the care sector. The focus has expanded from pure support for physical limitations to ergonomics, occupational safety and increased efficiency. Current developments centre on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced sensor technology, which enable exoskeletons to adapt to the individual needs of users. This article provides an overview of the most important research trends and highlights projects such as ExoBilitythat promote practical implementation.
The most important facts in brief
- ExoBility project: research into the acceptance and effectiveness of exoskeletons in the Industrybased on practical field studies.
- Technological innovations: Integration of AI and sensor technology for real-time adjustment and preventive detection of incorrect posture.
- Critical perspectives: The long-term effects and effectiveness of exoskeletons have not yet been conclusively clarified.
- HANNOVER MESSE: Central platform for the presentation and discussion of the latest exoskeleton technologies.
- Areas of application: Focus on Logistics, Care and industry to reduce physical strain and increase efficiency.
ExoBility project: research at the interface between man and machine
The project ExoBility was launched from October 2020 to March 2024 as a cooperation between the LIT Robopsychology Lab of the Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) and the awb Schraubtechnik- und Industriebedarf GmbH was carried out. The aim of the project was to investigate the acceptability and task-specific effectiveness of exoskeletons in industrial working environments in order to facilitate their implementation in companies.
Musculoskeletal disorders are among the most common causes of sick leave in Austria. Industrial companies in particular are faced with the challenge of reducing the physical strain on their employees, especially in view of an increasingly older workforce. In this context, exoskeletons are becoming increasingly important as technical aids. These systems, which are worn directly on the body, are designed to reduce work-related strain and prevent long-term health problems caused by unfavourable work movements or postures.
Despite technical advances in the field of exoskeletons, key questions regarding their acceptance and use remain unanswered. ExoBility has analysed the following topics: How is the technology perceived in comparison to other assistance systems? Under what conditions are employees willing to integrate exoskeletons into their everyday working life? What influence does wearing exoskeletons have on the perceived ability to work, and what factors - whether technological, personal or context-related - influence acceptance in the short and long term? These unresolved issues represent major hurdles to successful implementation and were analysed as part of the project.
The project was based on a user-centred approach in which field studies were carried out in real working environments in several Austrian industrial companies. This practical approach allowed both acceptance and the factors that influence it to be analysed directly. At the same time, the results were fed back to the users in order to incorporate their perspectives into the design and implementation. In addition, ExoBility developed practical guidelines that provide manufacturers and user companies with orientation for the optimal integration of exoskeletons.
A key result of the project is the creation of a comprehensive Exo-roadmap. This contains a status quo survey and potential analysis of the use of exoskeletons in the Austrian corporate and research landscape. It not only serves as a basis for the further development of the technology, but also as an orientation aid for companies that would like to integrate exoskeletons into their everyday work.
Technological advances: AI and sensor technology as drivers of innovation
The integration of AI and modern sensor technology represents one of the key advances in exoskeleton technology. AI-based exoskeletons can analyse movement sequences in real time and dynamically adapt their support. According to an analysis by German Bionic self-learning systems not only enable optimised movement support, but also the preventive detection of incorrect posture and overloading.
Another milestone is the use of advanced sensor technology. Exoskeletons use inertial, position and pressure sensors to record precise data on movements and strain. This information is processed in real time, enabling personalised adaptation to the user's needs. Such technologies are used in particular in logistics and care. Applicationwhere exoskeletons can significantly reduce the strain of heavy lifting activities.
HANNOVER MESSE as an innovation platform for exoskeletons
The annual HANNOVER MESSE is regarded as one of the world's leading industrial trade fairs. It serves as a central platform for the presentation and discussion of the latest technologies and innovations in the industry. In addition to topics such as automation, energy and digitalisation, the trade fair has also established itself as an important venue for the exchange of information on exoskeleton technologies.
A key aspect of HANNOVER MESSE is the link between research and practice. Scientific findings and the latest study results on exoskeletons will be presented here in specialist papers and presentations. Researchers, Manufacturer and users come together to discuss the latest developments and evaluate their potential. Interactive demonstrations offer trade fair visitors the opportunity to try out exoskeletons for themselves in practical scenarios. The relief provided by exoskeletons during activities such as overhead work or lifting heavy loads can be experienced directly, bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical application.
Companies like ExoIQ and Ottobock regularly present their technological innovations at HANNOVER MESSE. ExoIQ, for example, presented the Shoulder exoskeleton S700which weighs up to 5 kg per Arm relieved, while Ottobock with the IX BACK AIR showed an exoskeleton that combines stability and comfort for logistical applications. These products impressively demonstrate how research findings can be translated into high-performance and ergonomic systems.
How Ottobock emphasised at the trade fair, modern exoskeletons are not only aimed at ergonomic improvements, but also take sustainability aspects into account. Systems such as those from SUITX for example, utilise the body's own energy to avoid external energy sources, which makes them efficient and versatile.
The HANNOVER MESSE The exoskeleton trade fair not only showcases the latest technological advances, but also offers a unique opportunity to present and test research results and engage in dialogue between science, industry and users. It is a key driver for the further development of exoskeletons and makes a decisive contribution to further establishing this pioneering technology in practice.
Conclusion
Current research trends in exoskeletons show how these technologies can permanently change the world of work. Projects such as ExoBility are making valuable contributions to practical implementation, while technological advances in AI and sensor technology are constantly improving the functionality and user-friendliness of exoskeletons. At the same time, critical studies emphasise the need for careful planning and monitoring of their introduction. Platforms such as the HANNOVER MESSE play a key role in promoting dialogue between research, industry and users and paving the way for wider acceptance. Exoskeletons are therefore on the cusp of comprehensive integration in various sectors - with the potential to not only make work safer, but also more efficient.
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