Faster, safer: wheel changes with exoskeleton

Faster, safer, more ergonomic: changing wheels with an exoskeleton

Horb am Neckar – 18 September 2024 – The physical strain in car repair shops, especially on the lower back, is a constant challenge for automotive mechatronics technicians. The BionicBack exoskeleton from hTRIUS offers a solution. The exoskeleton provides optimal ergonomic support and significant relief, especially during strenuous activities such as changing tyres or working in the engine compartment. It not only reduces back and joint pain, but also promotes healthier employees, fewer absences due to illness and higher productivity.

Why the BionicBack exoskeleton is indispensable for automotive companies: Working in a car repair shop is physically demanding: changing wheels, repairing engines and other heavy tasks place considerable strain on employees' backs and joints. Excessive and incorrect strain can even lead to musculoskeletal disorders. The BionicBack exoskeleton was specially developed to support employees and minimise this risk. It relieves the body during heavy and repetitive tasks, promotes an ergonomic, natural posture and thus contributes to the health of employees.

The physical strain on automotive mechatronics technicians is at its peak during the tyre change season in particular, when car repair shops are extremely busy due to the rush of customers. Frequent changing and fitting of heavy tyres, as well as constant lifting and bending, pose a considerable challenge. The BionicBack exoskeleton makes these tasks easier and helps mechanics to cope with this intensive phase of work more efficiently and, above all, painlessly.

Especially in times of skilled labour shortages and high turnover, employee health and satisfaction are key issues for every company. With the BionicBack exoskeleton, automotive companies not only protect the health of their employees, but also reduce absences due to illness and secure a clear competitive advantage.

Tested and recommended

The BionicBack exoskeleton from hTRIUS is the first exoskeleton to receive the AGR Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. seal of approval for particularly back-friendly products. This award is only given to products that are classified as "back-friendly" and thus promote long-term back health.

Areas of application for the BionicBack exoskeleton in the automotive industry

The BionicBack exoskeleton can be used in a variety of tasks in the automotive industry, including:

Tyre change and fitting: The recurring, strenuous task of lifting and mounting heavy tyres is made much easier by the BionicBack exoskeleton, minimising the risk of injury. Engine overhaul: When working in a bent position, it provides optimal support by reducing strain on the lower back while offering freedom of movement.

Repair and maintenance: Whether lifting spare parts or working in the engine compartment, the BionicBack exoskeleton relieves strain on the back and joints. Working under the vehicle: When working under the vehicle, it allows for a more ergonomic posture when bending or crawling and relieves strain on the back, even when the vehicle is on a lifting platform. Assembly and disassembly of heavy parts: Lifting and installing heavy car parts such as engines, shock absorbers or gearboxes is made much easier, which significantly reduces strain on the back muscles.

Thanks to the BionicBack exoskeleton, automotive mechatronics technicians can work more efficiently. Physical fatigue is reduced and the risk of injury, especially to the back and joints, is significantly lowered.

Advantages of the BionicBack exoskeleton

Reduction of accidents at work: By providing support during heavy and repetitive work, the exoskeleton reduces the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and accidents. This reduces absenteeism due to illness and the associated costs.

Increase in productivity: Thanks to the relief and reduced fatigue provided by the exoskeleton, employees complete their tasks faster and more efficiently, resulting in higher overall productivity.

Ergonomic advantages: The BionicBack exoskeleton promotes ergonomically correct posture, which improves the long-term health and well-being of automotive mechanics.

Sustainability and cost efficiency: Fewer work-related absences and greater efficiency lead to long-term cost savings and a more sustainable way of working. The BionicBack exoskeleton is an investment that quickly pays for itself.

Attractiveness as an employer: A modern and health-conscious workplace makes the company more attractive to qualified professionals. This can be advantageous when recruiting new talent and acquiring customers.

Versatile applications: The exoskeleton can be used in various areas of the automotive industry, such as changing wheels, lifting and installing heavy car parts, and performing inspections, maintenance and repair work. This versatility makes it a valuable investment for a variety of tasks in the workshop.

The must-have in the automotive industry

Dominik Heinzelmann, Managing Director of hTRIUS, explains: "Back pain, slipped discs and other musculoskeletal disorders are the most common reasons for sick leave. The BionicBack exoskeleton is the solution for making workplaces safer, healthier and more efficient. It reduces the risk of injury while increasing employee well-being and performance. We are proud to make a positive contribution to safety and efficiency with this solution."