Revolutionizing workplace safety: the bilateral back extensor exosuit

In an innovative leap forward for workplace safety, a research team at Seoul National University (PI: Prof. Yong-Lae Park) has developed the Bilateral Back Extensor Exosuit (BBEX), a robotic back-support device designed to prevent spinal injuries and assist workers in heavy lifting tasks. The BBEX, introduced in a recent study published in Science Robotics, promises to address the shortcomings of existing back-support devices by providing multidimensional assistance and comprehensive safety validation.

Addressing a Persistent Problem
Lower back injuries from heavy or repetitive lifting are a major concern in various industries, leading to significant physical and economic impacts. Traditional back-support devices have attempted to mitigate these risks, but they often fall short, especially in scenarios requiring asymmetric lifting, which is common in many workplace settings. The BBEX stands out by closely mimicking the biomechanics of the human spine and back extensor muscles, providing effective support in multiple directions.

Innovative Design and Functionality
The design of the BBEX is inspired by the anatomical structure of the human spine and the erector spinae muscles. It features a multi-degree-of-freedom (DoF) architecture with serially connected linear actuators, allowing it to move naturally with the spine and provide targeted assistance. This intricate design ensures that the device can offer comprehensive support during both symmetric and asymmetric lifting tasks, effectively reducing muscle fatigue and mechanical loading on spinal joints.

Efficacy and Safety Validation
The research team conducted extensive experiments with eleven healthy male participants to validate the efficacy and safety of the BBEX. Participants performed lifting tasks while wearing the device, and the results were promising. The BBEX successfully provided multidimensional force assistance, reduced muscle fatigue in the back extensor muscles, and decreased compression forces on spinal joints. These findings suggest that the BBEX could significantly lower the risk of lower back injuries in demanding work environments.

A Promising Solution for the Future
By seamlessly integrating functionality inspired by human biomechanics with a focus on safety, the BBEX offers a groundbreaking solution to a persistent workplace challenge. The device not only enhances the ability of workers to perform heavy lifting tasks but also prioritizes their long-term health and safety. As industries continue to seek ways to improve worker safety and productivity, the BBEX represents a significant step forward in the development of effective and reliable back-support technologies.

For more detailed information, the full study is available in Science Robotics under the title “Bilateral Back Extensor Exosuit for Multidimensional Assistance and Prevention of Spinal Injuries.”

□ Introduction to the SNU College of Engineering

Seoul National University (SNU) founded in 1946 is the first national university in South Korea. The College of Engineering at SNU has worked tirelessly to achieve its goal of ‘fostering leaders for global industry and society.’ In 12 departments, 323 internationally recognized full-time professors lead the development of cutting-edge technology in South Korea and serving as a driving force for international development.

Journal: Science Robotics
DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.adk6717
Method of Research: Experimental study
Subject of Research: People
Article Title: Bilateral Back Extensor Exosuit for multidimensional assistance and prevention of spinal injuries
Article Publication Date: 24-Jul-2024
COI Statement: A US patent application (serial no. 18/558,069) and a Korea (ROK) patent application (serial no. 1020220083838) related to part of this work were filed on 30 October 2023 and 7 July 2022, respectively. Y.-L.P., J.I.K., J.C., and J.K. are listed as coinventors. The other authors declare that they have no competing interests.