The exoskeleton is a finely shaped structure that is attached to the outside of the body through a suit or specially made garment. Such robotic suits create extra strength and endurance when doing any work later.
Although it sounds like science fiction, this technology is already being used in various industries such as car assemblies. Where exoskeleton is being used, the rate of employee leave due to illness has decreased. At the same time, their efficiency is also increasing.
Over time, exoskeleton technology has become more effective than ever. In keeping with that trend, a new study from the University of Gavle in Sweden recently found similar information.
Researchers have found that a type of exoskeleton called 'EksoVest' can reduce the muscle pressure of workers working in factories, logistics and construction industries by up to 60 percent.
Exoskeletons have been studied at the University of Gavle for several years. In a recent study, 25 participants, called 'Exovest', later performed various types of drilling. ‘Exovest’ is basically a kind of exoskeleton made to be worn on the upper part of the body.
The researchers were able to measure how much pressure was put on the muscles of the participants while working. That is why they have used sensors. The results showed that wearing Exvest reduced the pressure on their muscles by up to 25 percent.
Sajid Rafique is doing research on robotics at the University of Gavle. He said workers in various industries are getting injured due to various reasons. As a result, they have to take more leave due to illness. Exoskeleton can be an important part of solving this problem if the use is increased.
Sajid believes that in the next 20 years, most of the workers in the factories where production and assembly work will be done will use exoskeletons.
Exvest has been researched before. And those studies have shown that using Exovest reduces the number of workers taking leave due to illness. Statistics from Ford, a US carmaker, show that wearing an Exvest reduces workers' sick leave by up to 85%.