Exoskeletons are entering the construction industry to improve worker safety, increase productivity, and create a more productive work environment.
These futuristic machines can perform tasks such as drilling into walls and holding up heavy equipment. They also can screw car bolts overhead in factories. These tools offer additional support to the back, legs, and hands of workers most susceptible to strain.
Continue reading to learn about the most popular types of exoskeletons in construction and how they can improve safety and productivity.
What are Exoskeletons in Construction, and How Do They Work?
Exosuits are wearable machines that have motorized joints. They can provide lift support, weight distribution, posture correction, and other abilities to reduce strain and injury. Although these machines are mostly used for rehabilitation, they are becoming more popular among workers in construction and manufacturing.
Exoskeletons can work differently depending on which part of the body they are designed for and how powerful they are. To reduce strain and increase endurance, some models transfer weight to different body areas. Others use grasping tools to improve strength. This process varies depending on the exoskeleton.
Types of construction exoskeletons
Exoskeletons may be either mechanically driven or powered by electricity, depending on their manufacturer. Depending on the function of the suit, frames can be made from metal or soft materials such as cloth.
Mechanical
Mechanical exoskeletons use no electricity. These tools are extremely durable and can be used for many years without recharge or use of an additional power source. Most mechanical exoskeletons remove weight from one area of the body, such as the shoulders and arms, to reduce fatigue and strain.
Partial or fully electric
Fully or partial electric exoskeletons can handle more weight and are generally more powerful than mechanical ones. They can target specific areas or increase pressure and strength as needed. However, they need a source of power and time to recharge between each use. This can slow down their work, but
Products for Construction Exoskeleton
There are many types of exoskeleton products designed to assist construction workers. These suits are classified based on how they support the body.
Ironhand: Power Gloves
For those with weakness in grasping tools or materials, power gloves can be worn around the hands to increase dexterity. This improves grip is useful when lifting heavy objects or carrying large hand tools.
Bioservo’s Ironhand glove is a soft-power glove that senses the user’s natural movements via sensors. The glove detects when the user is gripping an object and adjusts power according to its weight. The glove also gathers data to determine gripping situations that could pose an ergonomic risk for the user.