WOrk Assist Exo-Skeleton

A wearable work-assist system designed to improve fit, comfort, mobility, and load distribution for female construction workers.

Understanding the User

Research focused on how an exoskeleton interfaces with the body during physically demanding construction work, with particular attention to female fit and anthropometric needs.

Key considerations

  • Secure, adjustable fit

  • Upper-body load distribution

  • Mobility and range of motion

  • Comfort during physical work

  • Compatibility with workwear and PPE

  • Ease of donning and adjustment

Developing A Wearable System

Apparel and soft-goods design methods were used to translate engineering requirements into a body-worn garment and harness system.

Design development included

  • Garment and harness concept development

  • Iterative physical prototyping

  • 3D visualization and digital prototyping

  • Placement and adjustment of load-bearing components

  • Exploration of how system weight could be distributed across the upper body

  • Cross-disciplinary development with Construction Engineering