Research Projects

A large portion of all work-related injuries is attributed to the Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) which is further caused due to exposure to physical workloads during material handling, repetitive movements and awkward body postures. Further, Back and shoulder-related disorders make the most of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. As a result, Industrial Exoskeletons have emerged in recent years and have the potential to reduce the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and injuries. Although, wearable exoskeleton devices are beneficial in reducing musculoskeletal loads that are not reduced otherwise, however, from most studies conducted till date, it is difficult to draw strong conclusions about the benefits of industrial exoskeletons because of the other existing potential risks. Following potential risks have been identified related to the use of exoskeletons in the work-place. 1. Some exoskeletons can significantly shift the user’s centre of gravity causing balance problems and lessen the stability to recover from losing their balance. 2. It some cases it has been observed that the upper‐extremity exoskeleton devices did not reduce the total load but rather shifted the load from the shoulders to the lower back and legs. 3. In other cases, it has been reported that the exoskeletons may result in increased load to the spine. 4. Powered exoskeleton is also likely to cause movements beyond the normal range of motion of a user’s joint. 5. Some exoskeletons are unwieldy or cumbersome and may limit the user’s overall mobility, including the ability to avoid collision with a moving object. 6. Other risks of exoskeletons include pressure wounds or compressed nerves due to the prolonged use. Therefore, for an effective Exoskeleton which is free from the potential risks it is imperative to conduct a systematic In-Vitro, In- Silico Biomechanical evaluation to fill current safety and health knowledge gaps. The research proposal aims at design and development of an Upper Extremity Passive Exoskeleton based on biomechanical assessment using Simulation and Experimental setup. Further, a cross -sectional, longitudinal study will be conducted to determine the effectiveness of the proposed solution and take corrective actions accordingly.