Fraunhofer study: Exoskeleton reduces activity of back muscles by up to 41.5 percent

Muscle Activity Significantly Reduced When Lifting

According to the statement, the measurements showed reduced muscle activity in all investigated scenarios when using the exoskeleton. The greatest relief for individual back muscles was 41.5 percent. This value was determined during a lifting process involving a deep extraction and subsequent deep placement of construction material bags.

The results indicate that mechanical support can reduce muscular strain, especially during physically demanding lifting movements. However, the stated maximum reduction refers to individual back muscles and a specific work situation. Therefore, it cannot be directly applied to the entire back musculature or all lifting activities.

Reduced Spinal Curvature and Torso Rotation

In addition to muscle activity, the researchers examined how the exoskeleton affected body posture. The curvature of the spine when lifting with mechanical assistance was on average up to 35 percent less than during comparable movements without an exoskeleton.

The scientists also observed changes in upper body rotation under load. Torso rotation decreased by up to ten degrees. According to the sponsors, the exoskeleton thus supported a more upright posture and reduced pronounced rotational movements during the handling of loads.

Such body positions are relevant for the ergonomic assessment of manual lifting activities, as the interaction of load weight, body posture, and movement particularly influences the strain on the musculoskeletal system. According to the report, the tested exoskeleton did not restrict the freedom of movement of the employees.