Efficiency and health in internal logistics

Efficiency and health in internal logistics – The BionicBack exoskeleton from hTRIUS in use at GV Lacke

Horb am Neckar – 15 January 2025 – Internal logistics is one of the most physically demanding areas in many companies. Heavy loads, repetitive movements and high cycle times pose a major challenge. The BionicBack exoskeleton from hTRIUS offers a solution that protects employee health while increasing efficiency. One example of its successful use is at Grönenbacher Lackfabrik Gropper + Viandt GmbH, or GV Lacke for short, a leading manufacturer of industrial coatings.

Focus on health and productivity

"Lifting 25-kilogram buckets throughout the day puts enormous strain on the back," explains Christian Viandt, Managing Director at GV Lacke. "At an ASA meeting (occupational safety committee meeting), we decided to look for a solution that was not only effective but also lightweight. Our warehouse manager came up with the BionicBack exoskeleton, and after a demonstration, the enthusiasm among the employees was immediately palpable."

At GV Lacke, the health of employees is the top priority. "Our goal is to keep physical strain on our team as low as possible in order to avoid back problems and absences in the long term," emphasises Viandt. The exoskeleton is used not only in production but also in logistics, where it provides noticeable relief when handling loads. The exoskeleton's low weight of only 1.2 kilograms and its versatility make it an ergonomic aid that adapts perfectly to requirements and makes everyday work healthier. Thanks to its slim design, the BionicBack can also be worn without any problems when driving a forklift, which makes it particularly flexible to use.

Higher employee satisfaction and fewer absences

Since the introduction of the BionicBack exoskeleton at GV Lacke, morale within the team has improved significantly. "It's rare for new purchases to be accepted so quickly. Our employees were enthusiastic from the outset and immediately asked, 'Can we have them right away?'" reports Viandt.

A logistics employee describes the effect as follows: "In the past, you could really feel the strain on your back in the evening. Now I go home feeling more relaxed. The exoskeleton gives me the confidence that my back will always remain stable, even when things get hectic."

Universally applicable in logistics

The BionicBack exoskeleton has been specially developed for the challenges of internal logistics. Whether lifting heavy boxes, stacking pallets or working in confined storage areas, the exoskeleton supports natural movements and thus reduces the risk of injury.

"We currently use ten BionicBack exoskeletons. Our employees often wear them all day long – from the first shift until the end of the working day," explains Kevin Sandner, warehouse manager at GV Lacke. Since their introduction, there have been no more absences due to back problems. "This shows that the investment not only benefits health, but also makes operations more efficient."

A plus for ergonomics and cost-effectiveness

With the BionicBack exoskeleton, hTRIUS offers a solution that has proven itself in internal logistics across a range of industries. Companies in logistics, the automotive industry, wholesale and manufacturing all benefit equally from this innovative technology.

"We want our employees to stay healthy and feel good. BionicBack helps us achieve these goals," summarises Viandt. The combination of lightness, effectiveness and ease of use has won over GV Lacke and many other companies.

Invitation to LogiMAT 2025

From 11 to 13 March 2025, hTRIUS will be presenting the BionicBack exoskeleton at the LogiMAT trade fair in Stuttgart. Visit us in Hall 7 at Stand 7A02 and experience the exoskeleton live. Interested parties will have the opportunity to test the BionicBack directly on site and see for themselves its advantages for internal logistics.

The following link takes you to a video showing the BionicBack exoskeleton in use at GV Lacke:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdNu_3y72fw&t=2s