An exoskeleton is a mechanical device, motorised or not, connected to the human body to assist it in carrying out a task.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are disorders of the musculoskeletal system that often originate in the workplace. They generally manifest in pains or discomforts of varying degrees of intensity that occur almost daily. The parts of the body most at risk of developing this type of pathology are the back, shoulders, neck and wrist; MSDs are by far the leading cause of compensated occupational illness in France. In the industrial sectors, such as metallurgy, construction and public works or logistics, certain jobs are subject to significant physical, postural and repetitive strain, which are major risk factors for developing MSDs.

To combat this major occupational health problem, it makes sense to integrate exoskeletons into the day-to-day operation of these high-risk jobs. Indeed, this involves providing physical assistance to the employees in the performance of their work by reducing their efforts or increasing their motor capacities. An exoskeleton does not in any way diminish the user’s autonomy or mobility; it supports the posture, provides assistance in handling heavy objects or carrying out a task.

A passive or mechanical exoskeleton does not use an external energy source; such an exoskeleton is generally made up of springs and shock absorbers that retrieve the energy of the movements and then restore it during movements. The active or motorised exoskeleton, on the other hand, is equipped with electric motors that allow the body to move thanks to an analysis of the user’s intention.