Liying Zheng , Christopher Pan , Leonardo Wei , Hossein Bahreinizad , Suman Chowdhury , Xiaopeng Ning , Felipe Santos
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Interest in utilizing exoskeletons to mitigate the risks of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among construction workers is growing, spurred by encouraging results in other industries. However, it is crucial to carefully examine their impact on workers' stability and balance before implementation. In this study, seven male participants lifted a 35-lb cinder block from a production table to a simulated wall at two heights—elbow and shoulder levels—using three different exoskeleton models on an unstable platform, where their balance and shoulder muscle activity were assessed. Balance-related parameters, included mean distance (MDIST), total excursion (EXCUR), and mean velocity (VEL) of the center of pressure, were derived from force plate data. Muscle activity in six shoulder and upper arm muscles was estimated using electromyography (EMG) data. The results indicated that wearing two of the exoskeletons significantly increased both total and medio-lateral (ML) MDIST compared to not wearing an exoskeleton. Wearing one of the exoskeletons significantly increased total and ML VEL and ML EXCUR. Although lifting level did not have a significant impact on the balance parameters, it did affect the muscle activity in most of the measured muscles. Moreover, only one exoskeleton significantly reduced the activity in a particular shoulder muscle compared to no exoskeleton use. In conclusion, the evaluated shoulder-assist exoskeletons showed limited benefits for preventing upper extremity MSDs and may negatively affect whole-body balance during a block-laying task on an unstable platform. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive evaluations of balance and effectiveness prior to adopting exoskeletons in construction.
期刊介绍:
The journal publishes original contributions that add to our understanding of the role of humans in today systems and the interactions thereof with various system components. The journal typically covers the following areas: industrial and occupational ergonomics, design of systems, tools and equipment, human performance measurement and modeling, human productivity, humans in technologically complex systems, and safety. The focus of the articles includes basic theoretical advances, applications, case studies, new methodologies and procedures; and empirical studies.