The aim of this review was to provide an overview of assistive exoskeletons that have specifically been developed for industrial purposes and to assess the potential effect of these exoskeletons on reduction of physical loading on the body. The search resulted in 40 papers describing 26 different industrial exoskeletons, of which 19 were active (actuated) and 7 were passive (non-actuated). For 13 exoskeletons, the effect on physical loading have been evaluated, mainly in terms of muscle activity. All passive exoskeletons retrieved were aimed to support the low back. Ten-forty per cent reductions in back muscle activity during dynamic lifting and static holding have been reported. Both lower body, trunk and upper body regions could benefit from active exoskeletons. Muscle activity reductions up to 80% have been reported as an effect of active exoskeletons. Exoskeletons have the potential to considerably reduce the underlying factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal injury.
History
Publication
Ergonomics;59 (5), pp. 617-681
Publisher
Taylor and Francis
Note
peer-reviewed
Rights
"This is an Author's Original Manuscript of an article whose final and definitive form, the Version of Record, has been published in Ergonomics 2016 copyright Taylor & Francis, available online at:http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00140139.2015.1081988