Questions to be answered

• What research is being done on occupational exoskeletons?
• What different types of exoskeletons are there?
• How does it feel to wear an exoskeleton?
• To which extent have exoskeletons been adopted?
• Which aspects are important to enhance acceptance of people to wear exoskeletons?

Description

This second workshop on exoskeletons focuses on how exoskeleton technologies developed by European research groups and companies are making an impact in the real world. It brings together experts and practitioners to discuss the transition from laboratory development to market adoption in the context of rehabilitation, assistance, and occupational exoskeletons. This workshop emphasizes (user-centered) design, control, and acceptance of exoskeletons.

Organisation of the WS

5 min Introduction

dr. Shirley A. Elprama - imec - SMIT, Vrije Universiteit Brussel & FARI, Belgium

10 min EMG-driven adaptive gravity compensation for upper-limb exoskeletons

dr. Andrea Calanca - University of Verona, Italy

10 min Introducing SWAG: Pioneering Soft Exosuits for Human Empowerment
dr. Patrick Holthaus - Robotics Research Group, University of Hertfordshire, UK

10 min Development of occupational exoskeletons
dr. Christophe Maufroy - Fraunhofer IPA, Germany

10 min Towards acceptance in industry and healthcare: subjective evaluation of

occupational exoskeletons
dr. Shirley A. Elprama - imec - SMIT, Vrije Universiteit Brussel & FARI, Belgium

45 min Interactive demos of exoskeletons
Workshop participants will be able to try out different exoskeletons and ask

questions to experts about these exoskeletons.

5 min Closing

dr. Andrea Calanca - University of Verona, Italy

Intended outcome

• Participants will gain insights into the current landscape of exoskeleton technology in Europe.
• Attendees will have the opportunity to try exoskeletons firsthand and understand the practical challenges and benefits of their usage.
• Establish a bridge between academic research, industrial needs, and potential users for increased technology adoption.

Further information

Speakers

• dr. Andrea Calanca - University of Verona, Italy
• dr. Patrick Holthaus - Robotics Research Group, University of Hertfordshire, UK
• dr. Christophe Maufroy - Fraunhofer IPA, Germany
• dr. Shirley A. Elprama - imec - SMIT, Vrije Universiteit Brussel & FARI, Belgium

Moderators

Demo

The final list of exoskeleton demos is still under construction but will include prototypes and commercially available exoskeletons of various EU countries including Italy and Germany.

Organisers

Not applicable.