Mechanical exoskeleton developed for manual workers

Italian technology and innovation company Comau has created MATE (muscular aiding tech exoskeleton), a wearable ergonomic support device that eases the strain of repetitive movements.

Developed in collaboration with ÖSSUR, an Icelandic noninvasive orthopedic company, and IUVO, a spin-off company of the Italian BioRobotics Institute specializing in wearable technologies, the MATE Exoskeleton is able to replicate dynamic movements of the shoulder, wrapping the body like a second skin. The company says this means more comfort for the worker and increases work quality and efficiency by providing consistent movement assistance during manual and repetitive tasks.

Designed in close collaboration with factory workers that are engaged in manual activities, the wearable device employs a passive spring-based mechanism, which means that it’s completely mechanical, requiring no electric power to function. Lightweight and breathable, the exoskeleton offers postural support for operators and manual workers that can reduce muscular and cardiac fatigue, improve posture, precision of repetitive tasks and work quality.

The company expects it to be available in December of this year.