The Experience of Plasterers Towards Using an Arm Support Exoskeleton

Abstract

Positive effects of arm support exoskeletons in reducing the shoulder load, have been reported mainly from laboratory studies. However, for exoskeletons to provide worker support in practice, they need to be accepted as well. Therefore, it is necessary to obtain insight into the user experience and attitude towards exoskeleton use, in relevant working fields. Eleven plasterers were recruited to perform their activities while wearing an arm support exoskeleton. Before the experiment, participants were asked for which activities they could use support, and which body regions they wished to be supported. After working with the exoskeleton, they reported their experience and will to use the exoskeleton during daily work. Overall, the user experience of the plasterers was positive, and all reported they would probably, or even definitely, use the exoskeleton for a selection of activities, mainly overhead work, but not during the whole day. Together with earlier findings on reduced muscle activity, exoskeleton use in certain tasks seems promising.