Work

Simulated Intelligent-System Interruptions: Effects on Back-Support Exoskeleton Performance and Muscle Activation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study examined how interruptions, which are increasingly prevalent in modern intelligent work systems, influence the effectiveness of a back-support exoskeleton (BSE) during repetitive low-load lifting. Thirteen healthy male participants (age: 22.7 ± 1.7 years) performed a repetitive lifting task with and without a back-support exoskeleton (BSE) while concurrently engaging in a digit subtraction task that simulated cognitive interruptions characteristic of intelligent systems, presented at three frequencies (none, intermittent, and frequent). Task performance (number of lifting repetitions and placement accuracy), muscle activation of the erector spinae and upper trapezius, and subjective workload were assessed. Results showed that BSE use reduced the number of lifting repetitions by approximately 8% but did not affect placement accuracy. Consistent with its intended function, the BSE decreased erector spinae activation and subjective workload; however, it was also associated with progressively greater trapezius activation. Notably, BSE did not provide additional benefits under these cognitively demanding conditions, highlighting its limited effectiveness when attentional resources are constrained. These findings highlight that the value of BSEs depends not only on biomechanical support but also on work environments that effectively manage the dual-task demands introduced by intelligent systems.

Source: Actuators

DOI: 10.3390/act14110555

Authors: Jeewon Choi, Junik Park, Chaerim Park

Institution: Dong-A University

Language: English

Topic: Prosthetics and Rehabilitation Robotics

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896