The medical technology company Ottobock developed Paexo Back together with logistics experts and employees from warehouses and parcel distribution centers. The exoskeleton works according to a biomechanical principle: the load is taken from the shoulder like a rucksack and transferred to the thighs with the help of the exoskeleton's support structure. The energy store absorbs force when bending and releases it again when lifting. This leads to a noticeable relief of up to 25 kilograms on the lower back. "Such values are otherwise only achieved with powered, battery-dependent systems, which are significantly heavier and more complex to handle," explains Dr. Sönke Rössing, Head of Ottobock Industrials. The Paexo Back weighs around four kilograms. It can be put on and taken off within 20 seconds and can be optimally adjusted in several places using an intuitive sizing system (S, M, L, XL). "Our aim was to develop an assistance system for warehouse workers that is at least as powerful as an exoskeleton with a drive, but which works mechanically and can therefore find its way into everyday logistics quickly and cost-effectively. And we have succeeded in doing this with the Paexo Back."

No batteries required
The heart of the system is the purely mechanical control at hip height - a new technological development. It can distinguish between bending and walking and switches off automatically when walking to ensure full freedom of movement. The support force can be infinitely adjusted to the load of different work steps using the rotary knob.

From May 4, 2020, logistics companies will be able to test the Paexo Back in their warehouses or shipping and receiving workstations. An Ottobock Industrials employee with experience in implementing ergonomic measures will accompany the test. The personal contact should advise on the selection of suitable workstations, train the employees on site and provide support with the evaluation. Provided the general situation allows such on-site assignments again. dsc