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The Future of Construction: Exoskeletons Part 1 featured image

The Future of Construction: Exoskeletons Part 1

While it may seem like a thing of science fiction, exoskeletons are poised to make a big impact in the world of construction. ABI Research predicts that the robotic exoskeleton sector will reach $1.8 billion by the year 2025. The construction industry will be a large driver of this growth, where heavy lifting and constant standing and bending have led to widespread injury.

In this two-part article, the Central FL contractor lawyers at Cotney Construction Law will go over what exoskeletons are, why they are in demand, and the various kinds of exoskeletons that are going to be making their way onto the jobsite.

What Is an Exoskeleton?

An exoskeleton, exosuit, or wearable is a metal external framework that mimics and enhances a person’s internal skeletal system. An exoskeleton can be either passive or active and can be either full-body or aid a specific body part, such as an arm or lower back. An active exoskeleton makes use of motors, actuators, and batteries to enhance the wearer’s movements, making objects that weigh hundreds of pounds feel featherlight in the wearer’s arms.

Exoskeletons for Limbs

Arm exoskeletons can aid the shoulders, neck, and arms by supporting or holding a heavy tool and transferring the weight to the ground. These exoskeletons can be worn like a vest or mounted off of the human body. There are also exoskeletons for the lower body that operate like mobile, collapsible chairs and provide relief when a worker is in a standing or crouching position for prolonged periods of time.

Even though the above exoskeletons are often simple in design, the relief they give to workers can be monumental when they are faced with difficult and repetitive tasks. Fatigue and injury can occur when such tasks on a jobsite go unaided. If an injury has occurred on your jobsite and you are seeking counsel, please contact a Central FL construction lawyer to discuss what your next steps should be.

To learn more about the various types of exoskeletons and the benefits of having them on the jobsite, please read part two.

If you would like to speak with a Central FL construction lawyer, please contact us today.

 

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.