An Overview to Exoskeleton Technology.
                     An Overview 
to 
Exoskeleton 
Technology
Introduction
• Exoskeletons are used to support 
body weight, assist with lifting, help 
maintain loads, or stabilize the 
user's body. Many exoskeleton 
systems assist the arms, upper, and 
lower body.
S O U R C E :  W W W . A U T O M A T E . O R G 2
How Exoskeletons 
Work
• Exoskeletons can transfer the 
weight of a user’s arms from the 
shoulders, neck, and upper body to 
the body’s core, reducing physical 
stresses. 
S O U R C E :  W W W . A U T O M A T E . O R G 3
Mechanical Support 
Systems
• Mechanical support systems 
activate as the user’s arm is raised 
and releases as the arm is lowered 
by means of a network of cables, 
pulleys, and springs to transfer 
body weight.
S O U R C E :  W W W . A U T O M A T E . O R G 4
Wearable Devices
• Exoskeletons are wearable devices 
placed on the user’s body to 
augment, reinforce, or restore 
human performance. 
• Materials range from metal and 
carbon to fiber, soft, and elastic 
parts. 
S O U R C E :  W W W . A U T O M A T E . O R G 5
Prevent musculoskeletal 
disorders
• Exoskeletons help prevent 
musculoskeletal disorders in 
workers that cost companies billions 
each year. Factory workers who use 
exoskeletons have less back and 
shoulder pain, and they are able to 
be more physically active both on 
the clock and off.
S O U R C E :  W W W . A U T O M A T E . O R G 6
How Exoskeletons 
Are Used
• Industrial exoskeletons mirror the 
structure of an operator’s limbs, 
joints, and muscles. It works to 
amplify capabilities or reduce 
fatigue. 
• Exoskeletons are used to support 
body weight, assist with lifting, help 
maintain loads, or stabilize the 
user’s body.
S O U R C E :  W W W . A U T O M A T E . O R G 7
Unpowered 
Exoskeletons
• Unlike powered exoskeletons, 
unpowered exoskeletons increase 
strength and provide stability 
through human-guided 
flexion/extension and locking 
mechanisms.
S O U R C E :  W W W . A U T O M A T E . O R G 8
Key Features
•  Enhances strength and endurance 
to carry taxing loads over distance
• Enables better handling and support 
for heavy weapons
• Reduces metabolic cost of transport 
to improve endurance and reduce 
fatigue
S O U R C E :  W W W . L O C K H E E D M A R T I N . C O M 9
Key Features Cont.
• Increases ability to traverse stairs, 
inclines, and rough terrain, especially 
with load
• Reduces stress on leg muscles
• Guides orthopedic alignment to help 
evenly distribute weight and maintain 
skeletal system alignment to avoid 
overstress and pressure injuries.
S O U R C E :  W W W . L O C K H E E D M A R T I N . C O M 10
Thank you
S A M P L E  T E X T 11