A Framework to Model the Use of Exoskeletons in DHM Tools

Abstract

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) constitute a large part of work absences among industry workers, together with all the health and economic problems that it carries. Exoskeletons developed for overhead operations can potentially be a solution to reduce risks for WMSDs. However, some companies are still hesitant to implement exoskeletons in their workplace, since the effects of using exoskeletons are still not fully proved. Digital human modeling (DHM) could help with this dilemma by facilitating studies of the viability of the exoskeletons for specific work tasks. This paper proposes a DHM based framework to implement the study of upper body exoskeletons focused on overhead assembly operations. The framework emphasizes the kinematics and forces interaction between the human and the exoskeleton.