P.PSH.1240 - Improving human performance - evaluation of exo-suit manual assist devices
Exoskeleton systems have been developed which can assist with physically demanding manual processes in the red meat processing industry.
| Project start date: | 29 February 2020 |
| Project end date: | 14 November 2022 |
| Publication date: | 22 April 2024 |
| Project status: | Completed |
| Livestock species: | Grain-fed Cattle, Grass-fed Cattle, Sheep, Goat, Lamb |
| Relevant regions: | National |
|
Download Report
(7.3 MB)
|
|
Summary
This project was undertaken to understand if exoskeletons are a viable option to reduce the risk associated with manual tasks within the Meat and Livestock industry. Despite the advance of engineering controls and automation within the industry, there remains a number of tasks that remain a manual process. This can be due to financial viability, space constraints or lack of available options. This report is designed to inform members of MLA as to how successful exoskeletons can be as a control, and for them to consider implementation within their business. The results may assist in appropriate task identification, the requirements for a successful trial and if a trial of the devices is justified.
Objectives
1. Task analysis documentation for each task assessed at seven processing sites and one on farm producer site.
2. Documentation for each site to ensure effective fit of the device for workers.
3. The evaluation of feedback from workers.
4. Report detailing the results of the trial including any future recommendations and other risk prevention opportunities for the site to follow-up.
5. Report to detail any adoption and uptake, and recommendations to Suit-X to customise the design for red meat operations.
Key findings
Application for use of the devices was identified in a number of different areas of meat processing facilities. Feedback from the workforce trialling the devices was both positive and negative. Arguably the most successful areas within facilities were the dry/clean areas such as cold stores/loading area. Results were heavily impacted by lack of volunteers, lack of commitment from volunteers onsite, and operational demands:
• Exoskeleton devices, namely the backX-S and shoulderX, are suitable for a number of applications within the meat industry.
• Successful implementation of the devices within the meat industry environment, relies heavily on the workforce expectation, understanding of the devices, the fitting and adjustments, as well as the willingness to accept a new piece of PPE for certain tasks.
• The sites knowledge of fitting and adjusting device settings is key to addressing concerns of the workforce and setting the device up for the application.
• For the devices to be used in wet areas, a practical solution needs to be found to covering/cleaning the devices.
Benefits to industry
Tasks were identified within the industry that are the correct application for use of the devices. There was consistently positive feedback for the use of the devices in certain areas of the facility/location throughout the project. The challenges faced during trials are known and can be addressed.
MLA action
MLA will communicate the results of the project to industry and pending industry response and appetite consider partnering directly with a processor to continue in plant trials.
Future research
The results justify further investigation into the use of the exoskeleton devices within the meat industry. Trials would require consideration of the challenges faced within this project.
More information
| Project manager: | Darryl Heidke |
| Contact email: | reports@mla.com.au |
| Primary researcher: | Biosymm |
