Presentation
The Effects of Passive and Active Back Support Exoskeletons on Endurance, Perceived Exertion, and Back Discomfort during Fatigue-Induced Repetitive Lifting
DescriptionBack-support exoskeletons (BSEs) are a promising intervention to mitigate physical strain in industrial environments, yet their effectiveness during fatigue-inducing tasks like repetitive lifting remains underexplored. This study evaluated the effects of passive (Apex) and powered (Apogee) BSEs on endurance, perceived exertion, and back discomfort during repetitive lifting. Sixteen healthy adults performed lifting under three randomized conditions: no exoskeleton (control), Apex, and Apogee. Participants repeatedly lifted and lowered a load of 15% of their body mass, at ~8 lifts/min, until exhaustion. Endurance time, lifting cycles, perceived exertion (RPE), and back discomfort (RPD) were recorded. Use of the powered BSE significantly increased time to fatigue (+30.8%, p=0.03) and number of lifting cycles (+29.1%, p=0.03) compared to control. RPE significantly increased over time across all conditions (p<0.001) but was significantly lower with Apogee compared to control (p=0.015, -6.7%). Use of the passive BSE was associated with a non-significant trend toward increased endurance and reduced RPE compared to control. Neither device significantly alleviated back RPD. These findings suggest that powered exoskeletons may be effective for reducing fatigue during repetitive lifting. Further research is needed to evaluate long-term impacts on spinal loading, body kinematics, and user adaptation.
Event Type
Lecture
TimeFriday, October 17th8:40am - 9am CDT
LocationGrand Hall K
Occupational Ergonomics
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