Systematic ergonomic evaluation of an active back-support exoskeleton
本研究提出一种结合等效重量法和运动捕捉的工效学评估方法，测试了主动式背部支撑外骨骼StreamEXO在物料搬运中的效果，发现其能显著降低感知负荷和改善姿势，使整体举升指数降低34%。
Currently, ergonomic risk assessments for manual material handling rely on the NIOSH lifting equation, which predates the development of exoskeletons and therefore does not account for their potential benefits. To address this limitation, this study proposes an integrated methodology that combines the Equivalent Weight (EqW) approach, which quantifies reductions in muscular effort, with AzKNIOSH, a motion capture-based tool for assessing postural risk through the NIOSH lifting equation. The aim of the study is to objectively evaluate the ergonomic impact of StreamEXO, an active back-support exoskeleton, during manual material handling (MMH) tasks. Fifteen participants performed eight different MMH tasks in a controlled laboratory setting using 5 kg and 10 kg loads. Results show that StreamEXO use leads to statistically significant ergonomic improvements through two mechanisms: a 16 ± 7% reduction in perceived load, as captured by EMG-derived EqW values, and a 23% average improvement in posture, captured by the Kinematic Multiplier (KM), primarily due to reduced horizontal distances to the load. When considered together, these effects result in a 34% reduction in the overall Lifting Index (LI). Additionally, risk exposure decreased by at least one class in 45% of the assessed tasks demonstrating the benefits of StreamEXO in terms of risk exposure. • The assessment of the StreamEXO's effect on lower back extensor muscle activity. • The evaluation of postural changes during picking tasks with back-support exoskeleton. • The integration of posture and muscle data to estimate ergonomic risk using the Equivalent Weight method.