Effects of 24-weeks in-field use of a back-supporting exoskeleton on biomechanics, work intensity and musculoskeletal discomfort: A randomized controlled trial among logistic workers

IF 3.1 2区工程技术 Q2 ENGINEERING, INDUSTRIAL

Applied Ergonomics Pub Date : 2025-02-03 DOI:10.1016/j.apergo.2025.104469

L. Schrøder Jakobsen , A. Samani , K. Desbrosses , M. de Zee , B. Steinhilber , P. Madeleine

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Abstract

The trial investigated the impact of a back-supporting exoskeleton (BSE) on biomechanics, work intensity, and musculoskeletal discomfort among logistic-workers over 24-weeks in a field-setting. Twenty workers were randomized into intervention and control groups, performing daily order-picking with and without the BSE, respectively. Effects on muscles activity and kinematics were measured during standardized tasks before and after the intervention period, while work intensity and musculoskeletal discomfort were rated throughout the intervention period. The results indicated significant reductions in back muscle activity during lifting tasks with BSE assistance before and after 24-weeks. Although three BSE users stopped using the exoskeleton during the intervention period, the remaining workers progressively increased their daily BSE use associated with an overall decrease in perceived work intensity throughout the 24-weeks. The trial suggests that the effect of the BSE on back muscle activity remains constant over 24-weeks, opposite what was hypothesized based on previous research on training.

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来源期刊

Applied Ergonomics 工程技术-工程：工业

CiteScore

7.50

自引率

9.40%

发文量

248

审稿时长

53 days

期刊介绍： Applied Ergonomics is aimed at ergonomists and all those interested in applying ergonomics/human factors in the design, planning and management of technical and social systems at work or leisure. Readership is truly international with subscribers in over 50 countries. Professionals for whom Applied Ergonomics is of interest include: ergonomists, designers, industrial engineers, health and safety specialists, systems engineers, design engineers, organizational psychologists, occupational health specialists and human-computer interaction specialists.