28 Feb Explaining the Exoskeleton Function Step by Step
Exoskeleton Function in Simple Terms
What do most people think of when they hear the word exoskeleton? Iconic movies like “Iron Man,” “Avatar,” and “Aliens” may come to mind, but thanks to innovative technology, exoskeleton function is no longer limited to just science fiction movies. Today exoskeletons serve practical roles in industry and commerce. Their game-changing power lies in their ability to protect wearers from many kinds of harm.
Exoskeleton Basics
Some exoskeletons create armored barriers between their occupants and the surrounding environment. Although this is a valid use, many of these devices focus on different benefits: support and aid. Here are some of the advantages of these assistive technologies.
Moving Along With You for Added Strength
People who try to do more than they’re physically capable of commonly experience workplace injuries. Many nurses, for example, hurt themselves while lifting patients and equipment. Exoskeletons are powered by hydraulics, electronics, and pneumatics. By activating these components when people move, they can, in turn, boost the force that their wearers apply. A warehouse worker might don an exoskeleton to make it easier to lift heavy packages safely, for example.
Moderating Your Motion for Improved Control
Extra strength doesn’t just help with the carrying of big loads. It can also improve your ability to maneuver these loads as well. On top of potentially protecting workers from getting hurt, it can also provide the advantage of keeping inventory and products safe from damage or harm.
Exoskeletons help by controlling how fluidly people move. Motors, hydraulics, and pneumatics can be set to operate at specific speeds so that their wearers work at safe, controlled rates. For instance, factory workers who handle large machinery may use exoskeletons to increase their stability.
Locking to Relieve Strain
Evolution has given humans many helpful characteristics. Unfortunately, we haven’t reached the point where we can completely avoid injuries caused by our own body weight. For instance, standing in a hunched-over position for hours on end stresses out your muscles, joints, and tendons. Repetitive strain injuries, or RSIs, can cause serious physical harm even when you aren’t dealing with large workloads. Merely doing the same thing over and over again might harm your nerves and other body parts.
How does basic exoskeleton function help prevent these kinds of work injuries? Unlike your muscles and joints, exoskeletons have the ability to lock in place. They grant workers the power to sit comfortably without chairs and help them maintain good posture for long hours. Since mobile exoskeletons are designed to support the weight of your body as well as other objects, they can help you avoid work fatigue in awkward positions. Not having to hold your arms aloft, or repeatedly crouching gives your body a welcomed break.
Are Exoskeletons Right for Your Workplace?
Not every profession requires exoskeletons, but as the technology develops, they’re sure to pop up in more places. From reducing work fatigue to helping you cope with prior work injuries, they could prove essential to your professional future.
Sure, modern exoskeletons look different from how they’re depicted in the movies, but they still have important impacts in the workplace. These devices promise to revolutionize the way we work by making job sites safer and more efficient. Let us know how you plan on taking advantage of exoskeleton function, or subscribe for more news.