Test Methods for Passive Exoskeletons for Manufacturing Applications

This study explores the use of passive exoskeletons in modern industries to improve worker well-being and efficiency, particularly in tasks prone to musculoskeletal issues. A protocol has been defined to evaluate two passive exoskeletons (PAEXO back and PAEXO shoulder) through objective and subjective analyses. The first focused on muscle activity, kinematic movements and heart rate; the latter consisted of questionnaires to quantify user impressions. Results indicate that the PAEXO shoulder exoskeleton effectively reduces muscle strain and heart rate while maintaining user comfort. The PAEXO back exoskeleton showed potential but requires protocol refining and a longer familiarization period. Overall, passive exoskeletons hold promise for mitigating musculoskeletal risks and improving worker ergonomics.