How smart technologies are shaping the future
Exoskeletons and artificial intelligence
The combination of artificial intelligence (AI) and exoskeletons marks a turning point in the development of smart technologies. This combination uses the synergies between man and machine to reduce physical strain, optimise work processes and set new standards in the field of ergonomics. Particularly in industries such as Care, Logistics AI-supported exoskeletons offer innovative solutions to pressing challenges in the construction and building industries, from relieving physical strain to combating the shortage of skilled labour. This article examines the key technological advances, fields of application and future potential of these revolutionary systems as they are realised in projects and by leading companies such as German Bionic.
The most important facts in brief
- Revolution through AI exoskeletonsCombination of AI and exoskeletons improves ergonomics, work processes and physical relief in care, logistics and construction.
- Real-time customisationSensors and AI adapt the support to the user's movements and strain in real time.
- Individual optimisationMachine learning enables customised adjustments and increases convenience and effectiveness.
- Increased securityErgonomic early warning systems and real-time data processing minimise the risk of injury and improve occupational safety.
- Wide range of applicationsFacilitating heavy lifting work in care and nursing Buildingweight compensation in logistics and preventive safety measures on construction sites.
- Sustainability and networkingEnergy-efficient control, cloud-based platforms and integration with IoT increase efficiency and offer future potential.
- Pilot projects as pioneersProjects like the one in Upper Austria demonstrate practical solutions and promote the development of smart technologies.
How AI makes exoskeletons smarter
Real-time adaptation to movements
AI-supported exoskeletons use advanced algorithms to adapt to the user's movements in real time. Sensors record precise movement data, while the AI analyses this information and controls the exoskeletons dynamically. This ensures that support is always provided exactly where it is needed. One example of this is the pilot project in Upper Austria, in which exoskeletons were developed specifically for carers. These devices provide relief during heavy lifting movements and at the same time offer automatic adaptation to the load situation (see CGM Magazine, 2024).
Individual optimisation through machine learning
With the help of AI and machine learning, exoskeletons can be customised to the specific movement patterns and physical requirements of individual users. The continuous analysis of movement data enables customised support that increases both comfort and effectiveness. Researchers at North Carolina State University have shown how AI-supported simulations can improve control algorithms and thus ensure more efficient support (see pressetext.com, 2024).
Improved occupational safety
Another strength of AI-supported exoskeletons lies in their ability to analyse safety. They use real-time data processing to identify ergonomic risks and provide preventative recommendations to avoid injuries. At LogiMAT 2024, German Bionic presented an ergonomics early warning system that optimises work processes and minimises risks. Such systems help to raise occupational safety to a new level (see Logistik Express News, 2024).
Excursus: Pilot projects in Upper Austria - AI and exoskeletons in the care sector
In Upper Austria, pioneering pilot projects are underway to investigate the use of AI-supported exoskeletons in the care sector. The aim of these initiatives is to physically relieve carers and simplify administrative tasks at the same time. With the help of AI technologies, the exoskeletons adapt to the movements and strains of their users in real time. This automatic adaptation ensures that carers receive targeted support during heavy lifting movements, which significantly reduces physical strain.
A particular highlight of these projects is the integration of voice-controlled systems that simplify administrative tasks such as documentation. Voice-based input minimises the time spent on bureaucratic tasks, leaving more time for patient care. In addition, AI algorithms optimise the exoskeletons individually to the load profiles and physical needs of each user. (see CGM Magazine, 2024).
Areas of application for AI exoskeletons
Care area
In the care sector, where physical exertion and time pressure are commonplace, AI exoskeletons such as the Apogee+ from German Bionic offer considerable advantages. These specially developed models relieve nursing staff of heavy lifting movements and simultaneously optimise administrative tasks through voice-controlled documentation systems. This leaves more time for patient care while minimising physical strain. In view of the predicted shortage of skilled labour of 1.8 million nurses by 2035, such technologies play a crucial role in increasing the attractiveness of the nursing profession (cf. digital-bb.de, 2024).
Logistics
In the logistics industry, where heavy loads often have to be moved, AI-supported exoskeletons have the potential to fundamentally transform work processes. At LogiMAT 2024, German Bionic demonstrated how its devices can reduce loads by up to 30 kg per lifting movement. This weight compensation not only relieves employees physically, but also increases efficiency in warehouses and during order picking. Real-time analysis of the devices ensures that the support is optimised for the user, which significantly improves working conditions (see Logistik Express News, 2024).
Construction
AI exoskeletons are also increasingly being used in the construction industry. Application. They provide support for heavy work, such as lifting construction materials, and at the same time protect against falls through real-time data processing. In addition to relieving physical strain, these devices also help to increase safety on construction sites by recognising risks at an early stage and suggesting preventative measures.
Technologies behind the innovations
Advanced sensor technology and real-time data processing
The basis for the efficiency of AI-supported exoskeletons lies in their advanced sensor technology. These devices use inertial, position and pressure sensors to detect movements with high precision. In combination with AI-based algorithms, they react to changes in real time, which not only increases balance and safety, but also improves user-friendliness (cf. pressetext.com, 2024).
Simulations and energy efficiency
The use of AI-supported simulations optimises control algorithms, which reduces energy consumption and extends the service life of the exoskeletons. Such simulations also make it possible to efficiently test and improve new models before they go into production (cf. pressetext.com, 2024).
Networked platforms
Cloud-based platforms play a central role in the further development of AI exoskeletons. They enable the data collected to be analysed centrally and thus contribute to continuous improvements in functionality. This potential is being exploited in logistics in particular, where the devices help to optimise operational processes (see Logistik Express News, 2024).
Sustainability and future potential
Energy efficiency and ergonomics
AI exoskeletons are setting new standards in energy efficiency by optimising movement sequences and thus minimising energy consumption. At the same time, their ergonomic design increases wearer comfort and makes physically demanding professions more attractive. These advantages can help to counteract the shortage of skilled labour in various sectors.
Networking and long-term benefits
The integration of cloud-based platforms and real-time data processing enables the continuous optimisation of work processes. This is particularly important in logistics and care, where efficiency and safety requirements are constantly increasing. Networking with existing systems such as smart grids or IoT solutions offers additional potential that can be further utilised in the future.
Conclusion
The combination of artificial intelligence and exoskeletons marks a technological milestone. These innovative systems relieve the strain on the human body, improve working conditions and offer solutions to urgent challenges such as the shortage of skilled labour. Pilot projects in care, logistics and construction have already shown how AI exoskeletons can revolutionise everyday working life. Looking to the future, these technologies will not only have a lasting impact on our working world, but will also open up new ways of integrating humans and machines.
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