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Assessment of passive soft and rigid back-support exoskeletons in lifting tasks: a benchmarking study

Zijl, Lynn van (2022) Assessment of passive soft and rigid back-support exoskeletons in lifting tasks: a benchmarking study.

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Abstract:Low-back pain is a common health problem amongst industrial workers. Back-support exoskeleton research is thriving to reduce the onset of low-back pain risks. However, a standardised benchmark for performance evaluation is lacking. This article aimed at creating a benchmark by comparing four different passive back-support exoskeletons. Using an electromyography(EMG)-driven musculoskeletal model, L5/S1 joint compression forces and moments were estimated. Ten subjects performed four lifting tasks: asymmetric, squat, stoop, and static bending. EMG, full-body kinematic data and subjective measures were collected. Results showed significant back-muscle EMG reductions for all exoskeletons. The Laevo reduced back EMG activity during squatting by 18%. The Darwing and Auxivo significantly reduced L5/S1 compression forces during squat, stoop and asymmetric (only Darwing) lifting. Subjective measures suggested the Laevo and Darwing as the most comfortable exoskeletons, respectively 1.7 and 1.6 on the visual analogue discomfort scale. The Laevo was the most helpful, reducing the perceived rating of exertion from 13.9 (no exoskeleton) to 12.2. This article showed a first step in benchmarking the use of different back-support exoskeletons.
Item Type:Essay (Master)
Faculty:TNW: Science and Technology
Subject:44 medicine
Programme:Biomedical Engineering MSc (66226)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/93206
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