Vinay Gowda
Independent Researcher
India
Abstract
Passive exoskeletons have emerged as promising ergonomic assistive devices aimed at reducing musculoskeletal disorders in industrial workers. Unlike active exoskeletons, passive systems rely on mechanical components such as springs and dampers to support body parts without electrical power. This paper presents the design, development, and experimental evaluation of a passive upper-limb exoskeleton intended to reduce shoulder and back strain during repetitive overhead and lifting tasks common in industrial environments. The study includes a detailed mechanical design, prototype fabrication, and testing with human subjects performing simulated industrial tasks. Results demonstrate significant reduction in muscle activity measured by electromyography (EMG) and decreased perceived exertion, indicating the device’s potential to enhance worker comfort and safety. Statistical analysis validates the effectiveness of the passive exoskeleton in reducing physical workload. The study concludes with insights into optimization strategies and future directions for passive exoskeleton development in industrial ergonomics.
Keywords
Passive exoskeleton, industrial ergonomics, musculoskeletal disorders, mechanical design, electromyography, human factors
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