PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF EXOSKELETONS WHILE PERFORMING DIFFERENT TASKS OF WORKERS

Abstract: Lifting weights, moving large, heavy objects, or maintaining same posture for extended periods of time exposes workers, mostly in the industrial sector, to pressure on their lower backs, which can have a significant negative impact and result in a variety of musculoskeletal problems and discomfort. The use of an exoskeleton can help to protect workers against lower back injuries of this kind. Past studies have been conducted to study the impact of the exoskeleton on upper body and legs with different exoskeleton, while this study will be an additional study which covers the impact on the most essential and used part of human body i.e., lower back (Thoracolumbar fascia). Workers working in the industrial sectors face more health issues and disabilities because of working on uneven surfaces, under uncomfortable positions like bending, squatting, twisting, and stretching which might impose adverse impact on lower back resulting in a higher number of sick leave.  If more people are impacted by disorders caused by lower back pain, the lesser would be the healthy workers available for work leading to shortage of competent workers in the industry. Back discomfort can affect a person's capacity to work; in fact, it's one of the most prevalent causes of temporary or permanent exclusion from the labor force when it comes to sick leave. The total estimated societal costs of low back pain in Sweden in 2001 was €1860 million, which included all medical expenditures as well as lost productivity as a result of the ailment. Estimates place the total economic cost of LBP in Sweden at €740 million, or €78 per person, for all episodes that started in 2011. [1].  This research study used a passive exoskeleton, namely “BackX”, developed by SUITX Inc. and its impact was measured on the body’s lower back in deep squatting and virtual chair position. Electromyography (EMG) sensors were deployed onto the participant's body as a measuring gadget. The investigations also examined the body muscle data of the various volunteers as recorded by the EMG sensors embedded in the thoracic-lumber fascia, a muscle in the lower back with and without exoskeleton.  The 3DSSPP model has also been used in this research to study the impact of force vs angle relation. It showed how much force was exerted on the human's lower back when lifting weights without wearing the exoskeleton.  In addition, using the proper data processing techniques, the signals from the acquired data will be filtered and processed. According to this study, it is possible to minimize skeletal muscle (Thoracolumbar fascia) activity by up to 60% by using these exoskeletons, which will improve the working conditions for the workforce by easing physical strain. The findings of this study will help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) spread the word regarding the advantages of exoskeletons, which will help to increase public awareness.