We are pleased to present our conference paper from the 72nd Spring Congress of the Gesellschaft für Arbeitswissenschaft (GfA):

"Ergonomic exoskeleton design using musculoskeletal simulation: A case study on static, forward-leaning work tasks in industry"

The paper examines how musculoskeletal (MSK) simulation can support the early development phase of industrial exoskeletons. Using motion capture data from static, forward-leaning work tasks in realistic work scenarios, the study evaluates muscle forces and spinal compression. Different actuator concepts - including variations in support mechanisms, force transmission paths and support levels - are integrated into the simulation model to evaluate their biomechanical impact on the lower back.

🔍Why is this important?
Although exoskeletons are increasingly used to improve worker well-being and reduce musculoskeletal disorders, their effectiveness depends heavily on how well they are tailored to actual biomechanical demands. Without a detailed understanding of these loads, support systems risk being inefficient or even counterproductive.

💡 Our contribution
This paper shows how simulation-based design enables a deeper understanding of the interaction between humans and exoskeletons. The results show that the force transmission pathway plays a crucial role in determining biomechanical outcomes and that properly configured support can significantly reduce musculoskeletal strain. The approach forms the basis for the development of ergonomic, user-centred and effective textile-based exoskeletons.

Authors: Vishnu Kiran Surya Vamsam, David Scherb, Robert Weidner

The article can be found in the conference proceedings (pages 482-487).