Assessing the Efficacy of Passive Exoskeletons for Construction Work: Lab-Based Study

Summary

This project aims to assess the effectiveness and acceptability of four types of commercial Back support exoskeletons (BSEs) for concrete work tasks. BSEs are external wearable devices designed to reduce physical demands on the back by providing assistive moments to body joints to support muscles. There is considerable evidence to suggest such exoskeletons reduce the risks of back injuries for workers performing repetitive tasks. However, since the effects of using BSEs in concrete work tasks are still unknown, evidence-based information regarding effectiveness, productivity impact, and safety risks is required to help industries adopt BSEs as an ergonomic intervention.

Conditions

• Healthy

Interventions

DEVICE

Laevo 2

The Laevo V2 is a wearable chest and back support exoskeleton. The Laevo transfers the from its chest pad to the thighs while bending forward. The passive exoskeleton (works with gas springs, not motors) transfers part of the load away from the back muscles, reducing the pressure on the spinal column. It provides a dampening effect on the back, reducing the risk of sudden back muscle contractions that needlessly overcompress the spine.

DEVICE

backX

backX is a novel industrial exoskeleton that substantially augments its wearer and reduces the forces and torques on a wearer's lower back region (L5/S1 disc) by an average of 60% while the wearer is stooping, lifting objects, bending or reaching. backX augments the wearer's strength and can reduce the risk of back injuries among workers. It does not require external motors or power source. The mechanism of backX is similar to the first device "Laevo 2".

DEVICE

FLx ErgoSkeleton

The FLx ErgoSkeleton is a range limiting work vest for physical work use. The FLx naturally reminds the user of the correct posture and lifting techniques while on the job site.

DEVICE

V22 ErgoSkeleton

Similar to the FLx ErgoSkeleton, the V22 ErgoSkeleton keeps the position of the human body as to always stay within a safe body posture while lifting or moving heavy objects. The V22 ErgoSkeleton applies pressure to remind the user both during improper lifts and over rotation. In addition, the V22 ErgoSkeleton comes with two clutch controlled cables to assist in lifting and moving. The cables transfer part of the weight of the object being held directly to the V22 ErgoSkeleton vest, similar to other arm and shoulder support exoskeletons.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• University of Arizona

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Xiang Yang, Master · University of Arizona

Study Design

Allocation

NA

Purpose

PREVENTION

Masking

NONE

Model

SINGLE_GROUP

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2020-10-31

Primary Completion

2020-12-31

Completion

2021-01-31

FDA Device

Yes

Countries

• United States

Study Locations