Usability, User Acceptance, and Health Outcomes of Arm-Support Exoskeleton Use in Automotive Assembly: An 18-month Field Study. Issue 3 (March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kim, Sunwook; Nussbaum, Maury A.; Smets, Marty
• Is Part Of: Journal of occupational and environmental medicine. Volume 64:Issue 3(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-03
• Subjects: ergonomic intervention -- overhead work -- prospective study -- wearable robot; Medicine, Industrial -- Periodicals; Environmental health -- Periodicals; Occupational Medicine -- Periodicals; Environmental Medicine -- Periodicals; Environmental health; Medicine, Industrial; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 616.9803
• DOI: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000002438
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1076-2752

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: Examine arm-support exoskeleton (ASE) user experience over time, identify factors contributing to ASE intention-to-use, and explore whether ASE use may influence the number of medical visits. Methods: An 18-month, longitudinal study with ASE ( n = 65) and control groups ( n = 133) completed at nine automotive manufacturing facilities. Results: Responses to six usability questions were rather consistent over time. ASE use perceived effective in reducing physical demands on the shoulders, neck, and back. Perceived job performance, and overall fit and comfort, appeared to be key determinants for ASE intention-to-use. Based on medical visits among both groups, ASE use may decrease the likelihood of such visits. Conclusions: These field results support the potential of ASEs as a beneficial ergonomic intervention, but also highlight needs for further research on ASE designs, factors driving intention-to-use, and health outcomes. Abstract : In an 18-month study of arm-support exoskeleton (ASE) use in automotive manufacturing, usability responses were consistent over time and ASEs appeared effective in reducing physical demands. Perceived performance, and fit and comfort, were key determinants for ASE intention-to-use. ASE use also may decrease the likelihood of a work-related medical visit.