Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 17, 2026

Training Persons with Spinal Cord Injury to Ambulate Using a Powered Exoskeleton
Published on: June 16, 2016
Effects of back-support passive exoskeletons on biomechanical loads and postural stability during simulated manual
Seobin Choi1, Kiana Kia2, Allen Chan2
1Department of Industrial and Management Engineering, Incheon National University, Incheon, Republic of Korea.
Abstract:
This study evaluated the effects of passive back-support exoskeletons (BSEs) on biomechanical load and postural stability during simulated manual timber felling at three cutting heights. Twenty healthy adult male participants performed timber felling tasks under four BSE conditions (two rigid, one soft, and no BSE). During the tasks, electromyographic (EMG) activity, trunk angle, postural sway, and perceived exertion were measured. Results showed that rigid BSEs reduced trunk flexion and low back EMG activity at the middle cutting height, where trunk flexion was greatest. No significant changes were observed at low or high cutting heights, likely due to insufficient exoskeleton engagement. BSE use shifted postural control strategies rather than providing a uniform stabilizing effect. Additionally, BSEs lowered perceived exertion for the whole body and low back. These findings suggest that BSEs may help reduce low back loading at the middle cutting height during manual timber felling, but further field testing is warranted.
More Related Videos
08:40Quantifying Arms and Legs Contributions during Repetitive Electrically-Assisted Sit-To-Stand Exercise in Paraplegics: A Pilot Study
Published on: November 11, 2022
06:28Biomechanical Changes Related to Low Back Pain: An Innovative Tool for Movement Pattern Assessment and Treatment Evaluation in Rehabilitation
Published on: December 13, 2024
Related Concept Videos
Applications of Stress
The...
Normal Strain under Axial Loading
Plastic Behavior
Design of Prismatic Beams for Bending
Prismatic Beams: Problem Solving
The design begins with analyzing the beam as a free body to identify moments and force balances, thereby determining support reactions. Next, the designer...