The most common workplace injuries happen when trying to lift or move heavy things. Warehouse workers are some of the most at-risk, which is why Lowe's is developing a basic exoskeleton that its employees can use to make lifting things a little easier.
The exoskeleton doesn't have any motors or complex sensors; instead, it has sturdy carbon-fiber rods. When the wearer squats to pick something up, the rods bend, absorbing energy. When the wearer stands back up, the rods spring back. They work passively to make lifting heavy objects slightly easier. The combined strength and flexibility of the carbon-fiber rods means the exoskeleton absorbs most of the brunt when lifting heavy objects. This translates into less wear and tear on employees, which likely means fewer injuries.
The exoskeleton is currently being tested at a facility in Christiansburg, Virginia. Lowe's is working with Virginia Tech to conduct a proper study, but for now the feedback from employees has been positive.
This technology is still in the early testing phase, but if it proves to be successful it could drastically reduce the number of workplace injuries at Lowe's and other warehouses across the country.
Source: The Verge