Model-Based Biomechanical Exoskeleton Concept Optimization for a Representative Lifting Task in Logistics.

Occupational exoskeletons are a promising solution to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). However, there are no established systems that support heavy lifting to shoulder height. Thus, this work presents a model-based analysis of heavy lifting activities and subsequent exoskeleton concept optimization. Six motion sequences were captured in the laboratory for three subjects and analyzed in multibody simulations with respect to muscle activities (MAs) and joint forces (JFs). The most strenuous sequence was selected and utilized in further simulations of a human model connected to 32 exoskeleton concept variants. Six simulated concepts were compared concerning occurring JFs and MAs as well as interaction loads in the exoskeleton arm interfaces. Symmetric uplifting of a 21 kg box from hip to shoulder height was identified as the most strenuous motion sequence with highly loaded arms, shoulders, and back. Six concept variants reduced mean JFs (spine: >70%, glenohumeral joint: >69%) and MAs (back: >63%, shoulder: >59% in five concepts). Parasitic loads in the arm bracing varied strongly among variants. An exoskeleton design was identified that effectively supports heavy lifting, combining high musculoskeletal relief and low parasitic loads. The applied workflow can help developers in the optimization of exoskeletons.

Variations in Muscle Activity and Exerted Torque During Temporary Blood Flow Restriction in Healthy Individuals.

Recent studies suggest that transitory blood flow restriction (BFR) may improve the outcomes of training from anatomical (hypertrophy) and neural control perspectives. Whilst the chronic consequences of BFR on local metabolism and tissue adaptation have been extensively investigated, its acute effects on motor control are not yet fully understood. In this study, we compared the neuromechanical effects of continuous BFR against non-restricted circulation (atmospheric pressure-AP), during isometric elbow flexions. BFR was achieved applying external pressure either between systolic and diastolic (lower pressure-LP) or 1.3 times the systolic pressure (higher pressure-HP). Three levels of torque (15, 30, and 50% of the maximal voluntary contraction-MVC) were combined with the three levels of pressure for a total of 9 (randomized) test cases. Each condition was repeated 3 times. The protocol was administered to 12 healthy young adults. Neuromechanical measurements (torque and high-density electromyography-HDEMG) and reported discomfort were used to investigate the response of the central nervous system to BFR. The investigated variables were: root mean square (RMS), and area under the curve in the frequency domain-for the torque, and average RMS, median frequency and average muscle fibres conduction velocity-for the EMG. The discomfort caused by BFR was exacerbated by the level of torque and accumulated over time. The torque RMS value did not change across conditions and repetitions. Its spectral content, however, revealed a decrease in power at the tremor band (alpha-band, 5-15 Hz) which was enhanced by the level of pressure and the repetition number. The EMG amplitude showed no differences whilst the median frequency and the conduction velocity decreased over time and across trials, but only for the highest levels of torque and pressure. Taken together, our results show strong yet transitory effects of BFR that are compatible with a motor neuron pool inhibition caused by increased activity of type III and IV afferences, and a decreased activity of spindle afferents. We speculate that a compensation of the central drive may be necessary to maintain the mechanical output unchanged, despite disturbances in the afferent volley to the motor neuron pool.