Ottobock Paexo Shoulder
Exoskeleton

Paexo Shoulder is an exceptionally lightweight exoskeleton that supports workers in various industries during strenuous overhead tasks. Against the backdrop of an aging population and increasing skilled labor shortages, concepts like Paexo Shoulder are forward-looking solutions for maintaining health and preventing chronic conditions. Companies like VW are already convinced.

A project in collaboration with the aws designteam and Tim Kruchem (Ottobock)

Paul Gradwol, a painter at FingerHaus, uses the Paexo Shoulder while working on the ceiling.

Puppeteer Hans Kautzmann with two puppets and the Paexo Shoulder exoskeleton from Ottobock.

Prof. Dr. Veit Rohde from the Neurosurgery Department at University Medical Center Göttingen wears the Paexo Shoulder exoskeleton in the operating room.

A Helping Hand

Paexo Shoulder operates purely mechanically and weighs just 1.9 kg, transferring the load to the hips. Worn close to the body like a backpack, it allows full freedom of movement. The weight of raised arms and tools is redirected to the hips, significantly relieving the muscles and joints in the shoulder and neck areas. Overhead work can be performed much longer and more comfortably.

Background

"Approximately one-quarter (23.2%) of work incapacity days in Germany are due to musculoskeletal disorders. Among people over 55, this number already exceeds 35%. (MSE, as of 2013)" Ottobock

Physical relief through exoskeletons can help reduce work-related health risks, downtime, and accidents. As such, exoskeletons open up the possibility of playing a key role in preventive workforce health.