Okunola, A; Akanmu, A and Afolabi, A O (2025) Assessment of active back-support exoskeleton for carpentry task: Muscle activity and range of motion. Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, 23(6), pp. 1797-1814. ISSN 1726-0531
Abstract
Purpose – This study aims to investigate the impact of active back-support exoskeletons on muscle activity and range of motion during carpentry tasks, focusing on addressing back disorders in the construction sector. The purpose is to understand how exoskeletons can serve as ergonomic solutions in the construction industry. Design/methodology/approach – Sixteen participants engaged in simulated carpentry framing tasks under "no-exoskeleton" and "active-exoskeleton". The study measured muscle activity and range of motion during tasks such as measuring, assembly, moving, lifting, installing and nailing. This experimental design was chosen to assess the effectiveness of the exoskeleton in different carpentry scenarios. Findings – The results indicate that the active back-support exoskeleton reduced the back's range of motion by 3%–26% during various tasks, suggesting its impact on movement limitations. Additionally, the exoskeleton led to reduced muscle activity in most muscles, with task-specific variations. There was an increase in muscle activity by 1–35%, during measuring and assembly tasks, revealing nuanced effects. Research limitations/implications – The findings may be task-specific, however, the absence of a consistent correlation between muscle activity and range of motion suggests potential complexities that warrant further investigation. Originality/value – This research contributes to the understanding of exoskeletons in construction, emphasizing that task-specific designs are crucial for addressing unique work requirements. The study provides valuable data on the diverse effects of exoskeletons in different carpentry tasks.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | active back support exoskeleton; carpentry task; construction industry; muscle activity; musculoskeletal disorders; range of motion |
| Index terms: | framing, movement, complexity, construction sector, lifting, methodology, variation, experimental design, construction industry, investigation, effectiveness |
| Subjects: | research design and methodology, data collection methods, contractual condition, performance management, systems engineering, industry analysis, occupational health and safety management, health behaviours and lifestyles, conceptual models, research methods |
| Topics: | Health and Safety, Engineering Principles, Quality Management, Research Practice, Contract Administration |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTA |
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