Ottobock, the global healthtech company, today unveils Ottobock Shoulder, a next-generation exoskeleton. As a natural extension of the body, the Ottobock Shoulder provides support during strenuous over-the-shoulder activities in logistics, production, maintenance and handcraft. The new exoskeleton is a further development of the Paexo Shoulder, which is already used by thousands of users worldwide.

The Ottobock Shoulder is the latest addition to an extensive product family that Ottobock, as a leading provider of exoskeletons for the working world, has been developing since 2012. It builds on the first product of this range. Exoskeleton solutions support the whole body (e.g., back, shoulder, neck, wrist, or thumb) and help prevent musculoskeletal disorders and increase productivity.

“The use of exoskeletons can relieve employees with physically demanding tasks in the long run, so that they can carry out their work in a more health-conscious manner,” says Philipp Schulte-Noelle, CEO of Ottobock. “Thereby, our exoskeletons contribute to reducing sick days and improving occupational safety.”

People first

Years of use in real-world working conditions at companies including Airbus, SNCF, the French rail operator, and Toyota in the U.S. have proven that shoulder exoskeletons support safe, productive and high-quality work.

“The new Ottobock Shoulder benefits from the practical experience and scientific studies of recent years,” says Dr. Sönke Rössing, Head of Ottobock Bionic Exoskeletons. “They show: Ease of use and comfort are key to daily use. We have made essential progress in these areas, and the Ottobock Shoulder addresses precisely these needs. Exoskeletons are already transforming all relevant industries. From automotive manufacturing to train, ship and aircraft maintenance to logistics, people are becoming the center of attention thanks to our innovations.”

New standards for the future of ergonomic work

Similar to a backpack, the Ottobock Shoulder is worn close to the body and allows full freedom of movement. Like all Ottobock exoskeletons, it requires no external energy supply and functions purely mechanically. Dr. Homayoon Kazerooni, Chief Scientist of Ottobock Bionic Exoskeletons and Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley explains: “The Ottobock Shoulder harvests the wearer's upper limbs potential energy and stores it in a spring and cable system. This potential energy is absorbed, with minimal amount of exertion on the wearer, when the arms are lowered. The device continuously releases this stored energy to reduce the wearer’s effort for raising the upper limbs. This storage and release of the energy reduces the strain on muscles and joints substantially thus overhead activities can be performed comfortably. This innovative solution from Ottobock, is a breakthrough for companies by delivering both injury reduction and increased productivity.”

The technical improvements of the Ottobock Shoulder include simplified adjustment options that make it possible to put on the exoskeleton in less than 20 seconds. Users also benefit from greater comfort when wearing the exoskeleton thanks to the new design of the hip belt. In addition, a comprehensive range of accessories complements the Ottobock Shoulder. A neck support that can be integrated relieves pressure on the cervical spine. The Shoulder Jacket is specifically designed for welding work. The Soft Back provides support in the area of the lower spine and stabilizes the torso. The Cool Sleeve arm bandage cools the upper arms in warm environments. Easy-to-clean surfaces and removable, washable textiles ensure the hygiene of the Ottobock Shoulder.

The official launch of the Ottobock Shoulder can be followed here. The product will be available worldwide from April 21. Customers will have the opportunity to test and purchase the Ottobock Shoulder as part of various packages, which are available at an entry-level price starting at USD 4,990. Each of the so-called “Experience Packages" includes an individual consultation and product introduction by a specialized Ottobock ergonomics expert as well as a test phase.

For more information, visit www.paexo.com.