Lowe's Hardware Employees Testing Exoskeletons to Aid Lifting

In summary, Lowe's has teamed up with Virginia Tech to design and test exoskeletons for their employees. These suits have attached carbon-fiber shafts that store energy and make lifting easier. This design is more practical compared to previous exoskeletons and has potential for everyday use.
  • #1
berkeman
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Pretty neat. Lowe's is equiping some employees with these exoskeletons to help them lift in their jobs with less overall strain on their backs. Virginia Tech is working with Lowe's on the design and testing of the exoskeleton "uniforms". :smile:

http://money.cnn.com/2017/05/15/technology/lowes-exosuit/index.html?iid=ob_homepage_tech_pool
The suit also includes attached carbon-fiber shafts that run down a person's back and thighs. The shafts flex and store energy as a person bends over to pick something up. When the employee stands, the rods straighten and the energy releases, making the task easier. The process is similar to how a bow releases energy when an arrow is launched.

Lowe's developed the exoskeleton in partnership with Virginia Tech engineering professor Alan Asbeck. For years, engineers have tinkered with exoskeletons and exoskeletons as a way to augment human abilities with extra mechanical powers.

170511125849-lowes-exoskeleton-2-780x439.jpg
 
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Thats fascinating to me purely because this design looks practical. There have been many exoskeleton suits made, but this is the only one that I can visualize being used beyond a research level.
 

1. What is the purpose of testing exoskeletons at Lowe's Hardware?

The purpose of testing exoskeletons at Lowe's Hardware is to find ways to assist employees with lifting heavy objects and reduce the risk of injury.

2. How will exoskeletons benefit Lowe's Hardware employees?

Exoskeletons can provide additional support and strength to employees when lifting heavy objects, reducing strain and fatigue on the body. This can help prevent injuries and improve overall efficiency and productivity in the workplace.

3. Are exoskeletons safe for employees to use?

Yes, exoskeletons are designed to be safe for employees to use. They are created with proper ergonomic principles in mind and are tested for safety and effectiveness before being implemented in the workplace.

4. How will Lowe's Hardware determine if exoskeletons are effective?

Lowe's Hardware will likely conduct various tests and collect data on the use of exoskeletons, such as measuring productivity and employee satisfaction. They may also track any changes in injury rates or employee absences related to lifting tasks.

5. Will all Lowe's Hardware employees be required to use exoskeletons?

No, not all employees will be required to use exoskeletons. They may be offered as an optional tool for employees who regularly perform heavy lifting tasks or for those who have a history of injuries related to lifting.

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