Effects of back-support passive exoskeletons on biomechanical loads and postural stability during simulated manual timber felling
研究了被动式背部支撑外骨骼在三种切割高度下对伐木工人腰部负荷和姿势稳定性的影响，发现刚性外骨骼在中切割高度能减少腰部肌肉活动，但未显著改善其他高度。
This study evaluated the effects of passive back-support exoskeletons (BSEs) on biomechanical load and postural stability during simulated manual timber felling at three cutting heights. Twenty healthy adult male participants performed timber felling tasks under four BSE conditions (two rigid, one soft, and no BSE). During the tasks, electromyographic (EMG) activity, trunk angle, postural sway, and perceived exertion were measured. Results showed that rigid BSEs reduced trunk flexion and low back EMG activity at the middle cutting height, where trunk flexion was greatest. No significant changes were observed at low or high cutting heights, likely due to insufficient exoskeleton engagement. BSE use shifted postural control strategies rather than providing a uniform stabilizing effect. Additionally, BSEs lowered perceived exertion for the whole body and low back. These findings suggest that BSEs may help reduce low back loading at the middle cutting height during manual timber felling, but further field testing is warranted. • Passive back-support exoskeletons were tested during simulated timber felling tasks. • Rigid exoskeletons reduced low back muscle activity, primarily at the middle cutting height. • BSEs reduce low back load at trunk flexion angles exceeding 20–30°.