With this step, German Bionic reinforces its claim as a technology leader to continuously optimize its exoskeletons. “We can now deploy software updates to entire fleets of our E-exoskeletons during operation. This allows us, together with our ergonomics experts and biomechanists, to continuously improve the performance of our E-exoskeletons based on real usage data and user feedback,” says Norma Steller, Head of Development at German Bionic.
Regarding the functionality of the active exoskeletons: The AI-based and connected E-exoskeletons from German Bionic – such as the Apogee and Apogee+ models – actively support employees in various industries with lifting, walking, and tasks in a bent posture. This means: Unlike passive exoskeletons, they are wearable robotic systems, sensitively and flexibly adapted to the individual needs of the users. Their advantage: They provide extra power, resulting in a positive energy balance, less fatigue, and measurable workplace safety. For this purpose, sensors capture, for example, the users’ posture, step count, and stride length, actively supporting or enhancing each lifting movement, with the Ultra mode now offering weight compensation of up to 36 kilograms.
Thus, they offer a significant advantage over passive, purely mechanical exoskeletons in terms of technological advancement: They benefit from continuous software updates without customers having to constantly purchase expensive new hardware.
Expanded Range of Applications through Increased Weight Compensation
With this latest update of the control software, the weight compensation is significantly increased from 30 to 36 kilograms per lifting operation as soon as the Ultra mode is activated. The walking support of the current exoskeleton models Apogee and Apogee+ has also been further optimized. This makes the stepping sequence even smoother. Additionally, slow and shorter lifting movements are now supported even more precisely by the exoskeleton. This improves ergonomics. Finally, the update ensures that the transition between different support modes becomes even smoother. This also expands the range of applications of the E-exoskeletons beyond mere lifting tasks.
Nuremberg Airport, where German Bionic’s E-exoskeletons are in use, has already downloaded the update in advance for its exoskeleton fleet. Since last week, Matthias Reubel and his team in baggage handling have been testing the new features in ongoing operations. The initial feedback is positive: “The colleagues immediately noticed the additional relief, especially with the short lifting movements of the luggage from the baggage chute to the transport carts. In baggage handling, I can already say that this is another improvement in ergonomics,” says Matthias Reubel, Senior Manager Baggage Services.
Products are Continuously Improved
German Bionic is now gradually rolling out the software updates worldwide. From August, it will be available for the entire exoskeleton fleet. “Work is already underway on the next iteration of the control software. We are continuously improving our products,” says Development Manager Norma Steller.
Photo: © German Bionic
