MAN Truck & Bus Deutschland GmbH relies on exoskeletons from 'Suitx by Ottobock' to create more ergonomic workplaces. Since July 2024, over 50 shoulder and 25 back exoskeletons have been introduced at 20 locations, accompanied by personal training from ergonomics experts. The aim is to reduce the physical strain on employees and promote their health. This is because the maintenance and repair of trucks and buses and the associated lifting and carrying of heavy components or overhead work with tools on lifting platforms has been proven to put strain on the back, arms and shoulders and, in the worst case, can lead to absenteeism. This is precisely where exoskeletons are intended to provide relief.
Before introducing the exoskeletons, MAN carried out a pilot study with sensor analysis and feedback forms. The movement situations were analyzed for different real workplaces. The study at the Hildesheim, Duisburg and Leipzig sites showed significant relief. These included overhead work with a five-kilogram screwdriving tool and lifting and carrying goods weighing ten kilograms in the warehouse. The sensor measurements were carried out with and without an exoskeleton for the same tasks. The results show that the exoskeletons provide significant relief. 70 kilograms less pressure on the lumbar spine per lifting operation and up to ten Newton meters less torque on the shoulder joints when working overhead, which corresponds to a relief of more than 60 percent.
