Robotic exoskeletons have been gaining popularity in recent years as a way to assist human workers with physically demanding tasks. These powered machines are worn over the user’s body like a suit and can boost a worker’s strength, endurance, and mobility. However, with this new technology comes concerns over the potential harm they could cause to human workers. In this post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using robotic exoskeletons in the workplace.
The Pros
Increased Productivity
One of the major benefits of using robotic exoskeletons is the increase in productivity they can provide. By taking on some of the physical strain of certain tasks, workers can complete tasks faster, reducing overall project time.
Reduced Fatigue
Similarly, robotic exoskeletons can also reduce the amount of physical fatigue that a worker experiences throughout the day, potentially leading to fewer injuries and reducing the risk of long-term physical damage.
Improved Workforce Safety
Robotic exoskeletons have the potential to improve worker safety by reducing the risk of strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal injuries that can occur while lifting or carrying heavy loads.
Greater Accessibility
Robotic exoskeletons can also make certain roles in the workplace more accessible to people with physical disabilities, allowing them to perform tasks that were previously impossible.
The Cons
Expensive
One of the major drawbacks of robotic exoskeletons is their cost. Exoskeletons can be very expensive, making them difficult to implement in workplaces with limited budgets or workforces.
Reduced Mobility
Although exoskeletons can improve mobility in some ways, they can also limit the wearer’s range of motion in other areas, potentially leading to longer-term physical issues.
Additional Training
Workers who use robotic exoskeletons may require additional training to safely and effectively use the technology. This training can be time-consuming and costly for employers, adding to the overall expense of using exoskeletons.
Maintenance
Like all machines, robotic exoskeletons require regular maintenance and may need to be repaired, adding to the overall expense of using them.
Conclusion
While robotic exoskeletons have the potential to improve workplace safety, accessibility, and productivity, they also come with some significant downsides, including cost, reduced mobility, and the need for additional training and maintenance. Ultimately it’s up to individual organizations to weigh the pros and cons of using this technology and decide if it makes sense for their workforce.
References
- Schneider E, Huang H, Grant C, Biondi N. Industrial Exoskeletons: A Review of Technologies, Safety, and Usability. SAE International Journal of Aerospace. 2019;12(1):44-52. doi:10.4271/06-12-01-0004
- Yang Z, He J, Bao S, et al. Investigation of the biomechanical effect and energy expenditure of an upper-limb exoskeleton during rehabilitation exercises. Journal of Healthcare Engineering. 2021;2021:8792599. doi:10.1155/2021/8792599
- Hidayatullah NT, Reynold SPA, Salleh NM, et al. Costing and ergonomic analysis of exoskeleton implementation in material handling activities: A case study in Malaysia. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020;17(6):2097. doi:10.3390/ijerph17062097