Benefits Of Exoskeletons In Logistics

For most people, the mention of an exoskeleton often conjures an image of a robotic armor suit straight from a sci-fi movie. The reality is the exo-suits are light, flexible, and less clanky. And their entry into the logistics market allows workers to handle heavier loads with minimal risk of injury.  

This article explores the impacts of exoskeletons in logistics and how it’s revolutionizing the work environment and other load-bearing industries.

The Rise of Exoskeletons 

Exoskeletons have long been used in the medical field and the military. The exo-suits are a type of external brace system worn by workers to augment, reinforce and streamline their bend and lift processes in the workplace.  

Exoskeletons use a wide range of lightweight materials such as aluminum, carbon fiber, and reinforced plastics. The mechanical system has a network of cables, springs, and pulleys that transfer weight from an operator’s hands to the body’s cores. 

The weight transfer can minimize physical stress on the user’s muscles, joints, and back, reducing the risk of injuries. Users can also use the exoskeleton to support body weight and improve posture while lifting heavy loads.  

Exoskeleton Types

Experts classify exo-suits in two major categories based on their mechanism of action. Passive exoskeletons support the user by using a network of mechanical aids that mimick the natural flexion and extension of various body parts. The spring and cable systems can reduce the worker’s upper body strain by up to 40%.  

Active exoskeletons have a power unit(batteries), motors, and pneumatic systems that provide an additional burst of energy to lift and move the load. However, the weight of the batteries and motors may take a toll on the user. Additionally, the power supply may also limit the length of the work shift, requiring a recharge after a few hours.  

How Exoskeletons Work

Despite the remarkable strides in technological advancement within the logistics industry, many processes still require human input as full automation isn’t feasible. Sadly, the physical strain during the work shifts can negatively affect the employees’ health and performance.  

The exoskeletons can relieve the strain of repetitive bend and lift movements in warehouses and distribution centers. Motorized suits also increase the total load capacity that the users can handle.  

Benefits of Exoskeletons in the Logistics Industry

Exo-suits present an exciting future for the transport and logistics industry as more companies embrace the technology. Here are five benefits that you may enjoy by adopting the use of exoskeletons in your warehouses: 

Reduced Employee Injury

The average employee in a parcel delivery center lifts an average of 9000 pounds daily. The consequences of the extreme weight strain are back pain, postural dysfunction, and above-average absenteeism from work.  

The CDC says back pain is the number one work-related health issue. Using exoskeletons can help you prevent occupational injuries. The pulley systems can help increase mobility during bending and lifting, reducing the risk of popping a vertebra.  

Cost-savings

While the costs of purchasing an exo-suit may seem high at first, the product pays for itself in the long term. According to OSHA, US employers pay out more than $1 billion per week in direct workers’ compensation costs from non-fatal accidents.  

You can reduce your employees’ risk of injury caused by fatigue or overexertion. Save more money than you would have otherwise paid out in compensation claims.  

Increase Load-Carrying Capacity

An exo-suit can offset up to 40% of the load weight from your worker’s back. It means the 25-pound package will only feel like a 13-pound box when lifted. The strain reduction may significantly affect the work shift or even an entire career.  

Powered exo-suits can help increase the maximum weight that your workers can lift. Making larger loads lighter can help increase the amount of work covered within a particular shift.  

Improved Productivity

Fatigue and worker absenteeism are major productivity killers. The exoskeleton suit may provide a safer working environment for staff, reducing stress and fatigue. Your workers can carry more weight while having a lower risk of burnout.  

Medical appointments remain one of the most common causes of employee absenteeism. The CDC Foundation estimates the total annual cost of productivity loss stemming from absenteeism is $225.8 billion or $1668 per employee. Minimizing the risk of a work-related injury can help you save more on production costs.  

Better Employee Retention

Lifting heavy loads may become a tough challenge for aging workers. It is increasingly difficult for employers to source new talent with an aging workforce. Exoskeleton suits can help you retain your workforce for longer spells.  

The transport, warehousing, and logistics industries have an employee turnover rate of approximately 46%. Employees wishing to quit often cite harsh working environments and fatigue. You can pick custom-fit exo-suits for all your workers, regardless of age, gender, or size.  

Conclusion

Exoskeletons have gained popularity over the last half-decade, as employers look into creating a safer work environment for their staff. You can opt for mechanical vests or powered suits to make bending, lifting, and reaching more comfortable for your warehouse employees. Exoskeletons can help improve productivity, reduce employee turnover rates and save you money. The technology will help your business succeed and keep your workers safer and healthier.