What is an exoskeleton? Function, use & advantages explained
- Oliver Flug
- Jul 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 2
Exoskeletons have become an integral part of modern industry and the world of work. But what exactly does the term exoskeleton mean and why are these external support structures so valuable for various industries? In this article, you will find out what an exoskeleton is, how it works and what different types there are.
What does exoskeleton mean?
The term exoskeleton originally comes from the animal kingdom. It is derived from the Greek words "exo" (for "outside") and "skeletos" (for "dry body"). An exoskeleton is therefore an external skeleton - a protective and support system that is located outside the body.
Examples from nature include insects and crustaceans, which have an exoskeleton as an external protective and support structure. In contrast, humans and vertebrates have an endoskeleton, which is located inside the body.
A technical exoskeleton works according to the same principle. It is an external support structure that is worn on the body to support movement and improve or enhance physical abilities.
Areas of application for exoskeletons
Exoskeletons are used in many different areas - from industry to medicine:
Logistics
Construction
Wholesale
Beverage logistics
Car repair shop
Gardening and landscaping
Furniture transport
Maintenance
In short: wherever dynamic or static lifting is required, an exoskeleton can reduce physical strain and increase efficiency.
Other areas of application for exoskeletons:
In addition to industry and logistics, exoskeletons are also used in other areas:
Medicine - support for rehabilitation and mobility
Military - improving the physical performance of soldiers
Space travel - support for work in weightlessness
Personal mobility and assistance - support in everyday life for people with limited mobility
Emergency and rescue operations - relief from heavy physical strain
The BionicBack is aimed at people who work in professions with physically demanding tasks - for example in logistics, on construction sites or in workshops. It specifically reduces the strain on the back when lifting, carrying or bending for long periods and is easy to integrate into everyday working life.
Active vs. passive exoskeletons
Exoskeletons can basically be divided into two categories: active and passive exoskeletons.
Active exoskeletons | Passive exoskeletons |
Active exoskeletons use motors or hydraulic systems to actively amplify the wearer's movements. This type of exoskeleton is often used in industry or the military to lift heavy loads and reduce fatigue. | Passive exoskeletons do not use motors or hydraulics. Instead, they use mechanical energy storage devices such as springs or elastomers to relieve the body and support movement sequences. Passive exoskeletons are lighter and easier to handle, which is why they are often used in everyday working life. |
Our BionicBack exoskeleton is a passive exoskeleton.
This means that it does not have a motor and does not need to be recharged - so it does not restrict everyday working life or freedom of movement.
The most important points at a glance
To summarize:
✅ An exoskeleton is an external support structure worn on the body.
✅ It supports, improves or strengthens physical abilities and movements.
✅ Exoskeletons are used in various industries and applications.
✅ There are two types: active (with motors) and passive (mechanical) exoskeletons.
Conclusion
Exoskeletons are versatile and offer enormous benefits in industrial, medical and private environments. They provide targeted support for physical performance and reduce the strain of physically demanding tasks.
Want to see what this looks like in practice? Then take a look at our YouTube video on exoskeletons:
There you will not only find illustrative examples, but also many other videos with application tips, background information and experiences directly from everyday working life.
Curious about the industries in which BionicBack is already being used?
Find out more here:
Comments