Exoskeleton Report

Webinar: Reducing Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) in Safety-Critical Industries
2024-11-26 06:00 - 07:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Online
Introducing a webinar by Safetytech Accelerator that promises to cover emerging technologies that can reduce physical injuries in the workplace. The organization just published a comprehensive report on exoskeletons, AI tools, robotics, and wearables that is straightforward and easy to read. As injuries continue to hurt workers, it is exciting to see industry-driven packaged information on the new tools that can make work safer and more productive at the same time!
Time: Tue, Nov 26, 2024 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM PST
Agenda: Introduction by Dr. Maurizio Pilu, Managing Director at Safetytech Accelerator
Panel Discussion with:

Matthew Birtles | HF Team Leader, Health and Safety Executive, Science Division
Anna Rowland | Group Physical Health Lead, National Grid
Bryan Statham | CEO, LifeBooster Inc.

Registration via: GoToWebinar

6th International Conference on NeuroRehabilitation (ICNR2024)
2024-11-05 - 2024-11-08 | La Granja de San Ildefonso in La Granja, Spain, Real Sitio de San Ildefonso 40100, Segovia, United States
The 6th International Conference on NeuroRehablitation, ICNR 2024 is scheduled for November 5-8, 2024 in “La Granja de San Ildefonso” in La Granja, Spain. The conference is scheduled to have a significant number of exoskeleton and wearable related topics. The event is targeted towards clinical rehabilitation professionals, applied neurophysiology experts, and biomedical engineers. The primary goal of the conference is to discuss novel approaches, challenges and solutions for wearable robotics, specifically in a clinical setting.
The main organizers behind the event are the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Northwestern University, Hospital Los Madraños, and the Center for Clinical Neuroscience HLM. General sponsors of ICNR include Fourier Intelligence, Hospital Los Madraños, kūrage, Technaid, and ICORR.
The online registration deadline is October 11, 2024. For more information and to sign up, visit: https://2024.icneurorehab.org
ICNR 2024 Tracks include wearable robotics, clinical motor control, rehabilitation robotics, AI and Computational Methods in Rehabilitation and Neural Interfaces and Stimulation. All tracks are potentially relevant to exoskeleton technology. Additional, expect discussions and presentations on topics like:

Wearable Rehabilitation Robotics
Soft Exosuits for rehabilitation and assistance
Biomechanics and movement analysis
Objective and clinical motor outcomes and assessment
Clinical needs and future prospects

ACRM 2024, Dallas
2024-10-31 - 2024-11-03 | Hilton Anatole, 2201 N Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, CA, 75207, United States
The American Conference of Rehabilitation Medicine, ACRM 101st Annual Conference, Progress in Rehabilitation Research, Translation to Clinical Practice is scheduled for this October-Novermber in Dallas Texas. ACRM is not a dedicated conference for medical exoskeletons, exosuits and wearable robotics, but it has historically attracted a significant number of them. The 2023 edition of the conference, for example, had more than seven outfits with strong ties to medical exos supporting the event.
Ekso Bionics will be presenting a Workshop: Overground Robotic Exoskeletons for Spinal Cord Injury. “a unique workshop on the future of exoskeleton technology in spinal cord injury care! This workshop will bring together clinicians, scientists, and industry leaders to discuss the evolution of exoskeleton use in rehab and as a personal assistive device.” Registration: link
For more information, visit: https://acrm.org

CYBATHLON 2024 Exoskeleton Race
2024-10-25 - 2024-10-27 | Arena Schluefweg in Kloten, Schluefweg 10, 8302, Kloten, Switzerland
The 3rd edition of the CYBATHLON Exoskeleton Race is just around the corner! CYBATHLON 2024 CYBATHLON 2024 will take place in a global format from 25 – 27 October 2024 in the Arena Schluefweg in Kloten and hubs worldwide. A total of 160 teams from all around the world in eight different disciplines are scheduled to participate!
While in 2016 and 2020, the goal of the exoskeleton discipline was to get users safely across, in this edition, the stakes are much higher! In the first race in 2016, some of the teams couldn’t finish, and those that did needed about 9 minutes. Four years later, exo technology had improved so much that teams could finish the course in half the time. In 2024, just moving across obstacles will not be enough! The challenges are designed to evaluate gait-assist powered exoskeletons against real-world challenges and performing tasks while using an exo. It is going to be a far more challenging year than ever before!
CYBATHLON brings teams and media attention from around the globe to highlight practical advancement in medical technology. It is focused more on augmentation and tasks of everyday living than rehabilitation. The CYBATHLON is really one of the main reasons why the Exoskeleton Report’s device catalog continues to distinguish between medical exoskeletons as “rehabilitation” and/or “augmentation” devices. One is designed to be used as a tool until the patient gets better, while the other is meant as a permanent aid.

Link to event: https://cybathlon.ethz.ch/en/cybathlon-2024

Link to rules: Races & Rules CYBATHLON 2024
Project MARCH:
The ninth Project Motor Assisted Robotic Chassis for Humans, MARCH, student team on the TU Delft campus in the Netherlands, is preparing to enter the competition. Their introductory video includes a full 3D animation of how their exoskeleton will navigate the CYBATHLON course and is an excellent overview of the exoskeleton race:

Our coverage from previous CYBATHLON races:

Cybathlon Global 2020 Powered Exoskeleton Race
CYBATHLON Symposium 2020
WalkON Suit, The Bronze Medal Finalist of the Cybathlon Powered Exoskeleton Race – 2016
Inspirational: Meet the first pilot to win a gold in the Cybathlon Exoskeleton Race – 2016
ReWalk Robotics Wins Gold at the Cybathlon Exoskeleton Race – 2016
IHMC Powered Exoskeleton Cybathlon Full Course Practice Run – 2016
Meet the teams going to the Cybathlon Exoskeleton Race – 2016
Cybathlon – Powered Exoskeleton Race – 2015

🏅 Here’s what our Exoskeleton Race teams will face at CYBATHLON 2024 – which one will be the toughest?
Do you want to see our pilots in action? There’s still time to get your tickets: https://t.co/r8W1CrqfmT #CYBATHLON2024 #AssistiveTechnology #Exoskeleton @maxonglobal pic.twitter.com/0HypdLBFDG
— CYBATHLON (@cybathlon) October 18, 2024

Masterclass: Are You Really Ready For Exoskeletons?
2024-10-15 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, NV, United States
ErgoExpo returns in 2024 to the colorful city of Las Vegas. Like the 2023 edition, the conference will feature several talks on occupational and industrial exoskeletons. One of those will be a Masterclass titled “Are You Really Ready for Exoskeletons?” This workshop will be equally divided between a four-member expert panel and a Q&A session.

Marisol Barrero will present on workplace readiness to successfully implement an exoskeleton at a company site. This will include but not be limited to leadership readiness and how a company will decide why or why not to use exoskeletons. Emphasis will be placed on what type of decisions you need to make about exos.
Sarah Ballini-Ross will discuss how to plan and prepare a pilot study at your company, including plans, worker education, and getting teams to use the device.
Matthew “Matt” Marino will talk about how ASTM F48 standards can be used at your company.
Thomas “Tom” Sugar will present on ExoWorkAthlon. What data can we share about how exoskeletons have helped in the workplace and improved the quality of work?
There will be 50 minutes of presentations and 50 minutes of discussions with the audience.

ExR’s perspective: I have personally met and/or worked on projects with all four presenters. My only regret is that I won’t be able to attend this Masterclass in person.
“Industrial exoskeletons are a relatively recent innovation that may offer benefits to your workplace. However, how do you truly know if you are ready to even trial them, let alone implement them? Exoskeleton pilots/trials and full implementation are dramatically different stages of a program, and understanding the planning and preparation required for each of these stages is critical to success. This session, presented by the Automotive Exoskeleton Group (AExG) and some of the earliest adopters of exoskeletons, will provide valuable education and insights from real world experience to help you succeed.”
Link to the Masterclass Agenda: LINK
About the Masters of the Masterclass (as noted on the ErgoExpo website):
Marisol Barrero has recently started a new position as Global Ergonomics Manager with Vibrantz Technologies, a global manufacturer of chemicals and advanced materials. Prior to Vibrantz, Marisol worked as Technical Director of Ergonomics at Liberty Mutual Insurance. Most of her career has been spent developing and improving ergonomics programs within industry, with 15 years at Toyota Motor North America as Ergonomics Technical Lead and, later, North American Ergonomics Program Manager, and 2 years at Amazon Web Services, as Global Ergonomics Manager.
Marisol has been involved with safety-related wearables and technology since 2016 and is involved in several external organizations. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Wearable Robotics Association (WearRA) and the Automotive Exoskeleton Group (AExG), which she co-founded in 2018. She is a member of ASTM F48, a standard on exoskeletons and exosuits. She is a regular speaker at various safety and technology conferences, including the Applied Ergonomics Conference, WearRAcon, and the Augmented Enterprise Summit.
She received her B.A. and M.S. from Cornell University. She has been a Certified Professional Ergonomist since 2006.

Matthew Marino is the owner of Prime Performance in Portland, Oregon. He is a Physical Therapist, Certified Professional Ergonomist, sports scientist, and performance coach. Matt is an internationally recognized expert in wearable technology and exoskeletons with 15 years of experience providing comprehensive workplace health, safety, and ergonomics services to hundreds of companies in several industries. Matt is a respected practitioner, researcher, educator, and advocate on a mission to help people and companies convert potential into world-class safety, health, and performance.

Sarah Ballini-Ross is a dynamic and seasoned professional in the realm of safety, public health, and innovation. Holding a degree in Public Health from Oregon State University, Sarah has honed her problem-solving prowess, innovation skillset, and interpersonal abilities, making her a trusted strategic consultant and subject matter expert in safety technology, health prevention, and health policy issues. As a first-generation farmer, she also operates a small farm near Salem, Oregon, where she raises grass-fed meats.

Thomas Sugar is the Associate Dean for Barrett, The Honors College at the ASU Polytechnic campus. He is also a professor and the graduate program chair for systems engineering and manufacturing engineering in the school of Manufacturing Systems and Networks. He works in wearable robotics to improve worker wellness and quality of life. His research focuses on compliant wearable robots using tunable springs.
He majored in business and mechanical engineering for his bachelor’s and doctoral degrees, all from the University of Pennsylvania. In industry, he worked as a project engineer for W. L. Gore and Associates. He has been a faculty member in the departments of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Engineering, and Manufacturing Systems and Networks at Arizona State University. He is an ASME Fellow and IEEE Senior Member.

National Ergo 2024
2024-10-15 - 2024-10-17 | Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, NV, United States
ErgoExpo returns in 2024 to the colorful city of Las Vegas. Similar to the 2023 edition, the conference will feature several talks on occupational and industrial exoskeletons. While the conference isn’t solely focused on wearable robotics, the subject will be prominently discussed.
A prevailing challenge in the industry continues to be accurately matching exoskeleton devices to specific tasks and shepherding their adoption among workers. Expect expert discussions at the event on the crucial topics of exoskeleton matching, introduction, and change management. Proper introduction to the technology is vital for its long-term adoption. Occupational wearables promise to reduce worker injuries and redefine physical labor, but their potential can only be realized when more professionals become familiar with their advantages and limitations.
About ErgoExpo:
National Ergo Conference, October 15-17, 2024, Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, Nevada, US
National Ergo is billed as the US’ longest-running ergonomics event and trade show. It offers the Ergonomics community a platform to learn from industry leaders through over 40 educational sessions, keynotes, and workshops. The event encompasses a range of topics, from office seating to exosuits and work automation. Attendees can anticipate educational content, professional networking opportunities, and an exhibit hall showcasing various ergonomic products and innovations. National Ergo 2024 serves as a comprehensive gathering for those in the field.
Update:
Tentatively, there are three sections dedicated to exoskeleton technology, one of which is a Masterclass: “Are you really ready for exoskeletons?”
For registration, speakers, hotel block, and much more, visit http://ergoexpo.com

Webcast: 𝑫𝒊𝒈𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒍𝑬𝒙𝒐𝒏𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒄𝒔 | 𝑴𝒖𝒔𝒄𝒖𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒌𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝑬𝒙𝒐𝒔𝒌𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒕𝒐𝒏 𝑨𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝑨𝒏𝒚𝑩𝒐𝒅𝒚
2024-10-10 | Online
AnyBody Technology has used its CAD simulation software with exoskeletons since at least 2015! As someone who loves computer-aided design, I can appreciate how the company tries to provide an alternative to human-in-the-loop or test dummies with internal load cell testing. After all, getting reliable information about what happens inside the body is challenging, even with the best EMG technology. This webinar will present body capture data fed into the AnyBody model to evaluate occupational exoskeletons. Sounds interesting!
Date:

October 10, 2024 at 09.00 (CEST) & 17.00 (CEST)
October 10, 2024 at 12am (PST) & 8am (PST)

“In a time of talent shortages and an aging workforce, there is an increasing need for a better understanding of physical stress in the workplace in order to better protect workers from musculoskeletal disorders. Occupational exoskeletons in the workplace could be a promising and flexible ergonomic solution to prevent musculoskeletal disorders, but they are not yet sufficiently understood.
The presentation will outline and discuss the results of a modeling study within the research project DigitalExonomics. The AnyBody Modeling SystemTM was used to evaluate the biomechanical effectiveness of existing occupational exoskeletons. For this purpose, motion data was collected in realistic use cases that were digitally planned and set up together with relevant industry stakeholders. Further, a methodological approach for the assessment of intended and unintended effects was developed to investigate the complex biomechanical interaction of exoskeletons with the human musculoskeletal system.”

Read more about the webcast and secure your seat here:

09.00 (CEST) registration
17.00 (CEST) registration

Presented by: M.Sc. Urban Daub Senior Expert and Business Segment Manager Medical Technology and Ergonomics Fraunhofer IPA, Stuttgart and Dr.-Ing. Mark Tröster Research Associate and Group Manager Digital Human Modeling and Ergonomics Fraunhofer IPA and University of Stuttgart, IFF

Re-Integration Into Physical Work Symposium at REHACARE 2024
2024-09-25 - 2024-09-28 | Messe Düsseldorf, Stockumer Kirchstraße 61, Düsseldorf, Am Staad (Stockumer Höfe), 40474, Germany
Announcing the Special Topic at REHACARE 2024! This will be a one day symposium and a four-day Special Topic Area in Hall 1. “Re-Integration into Physical Work with Physical Assist – What is the Need Gap?” is an initiative by:

REHACARE
Fraunhofer IPA & Universität Stuttgart IFF
Wearable Robotics Association, WearRA
In collaboration with LWL Landschaftsverband Westfalen-Lippe

The one day symposium will focus on reintegration of people with prior injuries back into physical work (work that is not necessarily physically challenges but requires the ability to reach controls and control machinery). What is the current status and options available. What ware patient’s needs and solutions on the market?
Lectures:

General overview and path to reintegration by LWL
The need gap and ways forward in Germany by Fraunhofer IPA
Specific needs and solutions for workers with spinal cord injuries and/or wheel chair users by Pro Active “the Lift Solution”
Specific needs and solutions for those with severe back pain by HUNIC Gmbh, maker of the back-assist exosuits for lifting tasks.
Special considerations for workers with amputations and prosthetic legs

The goal of the symposium is to highlight the needs and show the state of the art in innovative solutions. For example, the Pro Active Wheel Chair Lift has been used successfully to operate CNC Machining Work Stations. Expect exoskeleton & exosuit examples of return to work from HUNIC and IUVO.
Join us at “Reintegration into Physical Work”
Verena Kopp and Urban Daub, Frounhofer IPA

REHACARE 2024
2024-09-25 - 2024-09-28 | Messe Düsseldorf, Stockumer Kirchstraße 61, Düsseldorf, Am Staad (Stockumer Höfe), 40474, Germany
REHACARE is not a dedicated conference for medical exoskeleton technology, however, it has been featuring more and more wearables over its run to the point that some almost see it as such. Videos of REHACARE always a multitude of medical exoskeletons and the promotional material for the 2024 edition is no exception.
REHACARE International is billed as one of the world’s largest (if not the largest) trade fairs for physical rehabilitation, inclusion, and care. It is held annually in Düsseldorf, Germany at the same venue as the A+A Trade Fair, and normally attracts tens of thousands of exhibitors and attendees. The venue is wonderful (I was just there a few months ago) and the organizers are expecting more than 700 exhibitors from more than 35 countries. There are several exoskeleton developers registered and exhibiting, including Ekso Bionics and ReWalk. In addition, representatives for the CYBATHLON competition will also have floor space.
Visit the main Trade Fair website: https://www.rehacare.com
Furthermore, there will be a one-day symposium / Special Topic in Hall 1. “Re-Integration into Physical Work with Physical Assist – What is the Need Gap?” More info: Event Calendar Link

National Safety Council Congress & Expo 2024
2024-09-16 - 2024-09-18 | Orange County Convention Center Orlando Florida, 9800 International Dr, Orlando, FL, 32819, United States
The National Congress Annual Congress and Expositon is annual event that happens every September or October. It is one of many hosted by the National Safety Council each year. The 2024 edition will be held in Orlando, Florida from September 16-18, 2024 with seminars running the days before and after.
This will not be a dedicated event to occupational exoskeletons and wearable robotics, however, recently the National Safety Council has began featuring exo-technology for workers. The 2023 edition included multiple sessions on exos during the congress portion, specifically in their Innovation Pavilion, and several exo vendors were present at the expo as well.
Registration and information: https://congress.nsc.org/nsc2024/public/enter.aspx
In 2023, NSC also featured Sarah Ballini-Ross (formerly of SAIF Insurance) as a subject matter expert leading various sessions on exoskeletons and wearable safety devices at other events throughout the year. Sara educated and highlighted opportunities and limitations of exo technology. This doesn’t mean, necessarily, that the 2024 of the NSF Annual Congress will also feature many occupational exoskeletons but it is worth having the event on the radar. At a minimum, both HeroWear and Verve Motion will have expo floor space.
Update Aug 13, 2024: The ExR team just learned that the Japanese-made exoskeleton ‘SUPPORT JACKET’ will be exhibited for the first time at the NSC in Orlando, Booth No : 348.
Update: Professor Jason Gillete (Iowas State University) will be presenting ‘Addressing Shoulder Fatigue and Injury Risk: Developing a Predictive Model and AI-based Application for Ergonomics Assessment’ as part of:
Session #120120
Session Title: Innovative Solutions for Prevention of Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Review of the Research Insights from MSD Solutions Lab Research to Solutions Grant Projects
Date: 9/18/2024
Time: 1:00 PM 2:00 PM
Room Number: 202 ABC

BioRob 2024 Workshop: Accelerating Wearable Robotics
2024-09-01 | Neue Universität, Universitätsplatz 1, 69117, Heidelberg, Germany
IEEE RAS EMBS 10th International Conference on Biomedical Robotics and Biomechatronics (BioRob 2024), will include a series of workshops before the conference start, including one on exoskeleton technology. Workshop 30/34 Accelerating Wearable Robotics: Advancements in Mechatronic Prostheses and Exoskeletons and Rapid Control Prototyping to be held September 1st.
Confirmed Speakers:

Professor Tommaso Lenzi
Professor Michael Goldfar
Professor Robert Gregg
Professor Massimo Sartori
Professor Elliot J. Rouse
Professor Hugh Herr

This workshop recognizes that exoskeletons and wearable robotics is a highly multi-disciplinary field. Expect discussions of exos and mechatronic prostheses focusing on scientific advancements and clinical and industrial use. Topics will include the latest advancements in:

mechatronic design
rapid control prototyping
sensory feedback

The workshop will be divided into two sections. In the morning, one will emphasize research on lower limb prosthetics. The afternoon section will center around rapid control prototyping in prostheses and exoskeletons. Audience participation during and after presentations will be encouraged. For more, visit the workshop website: link
Organizers:
Marco Puliti, Andrea Berettoni, Giulia Bodo, Raffaele Giannattasio and Matteo Laffranchi

Workshop: Industrial Exoskeletons: Market Demands, Challenges, and Research Opportunities
2024-09-01 | Nicolaus Hotel, Via Cardinale Agostino Ciasca, 27, Puglia, 70124, Italy
The Altair Robotics Lab and the Neuromuscular Robotics Lab at the University of Twente will host a one-day workshop on occupational & industrial exoskeletons in conjunction with a broader Italian conference. The workshop will be a full-day event on Sunday, September 1st, 2024, during the last day of CASE 2024.
Industrial Exoskeletons: Market Demands, Open Challenges, and Research Opportunities will include multiple hours of presentations, group discussions, and live presentations. Additional objectives of the workshop beyond the stated title will be to:

Current challenges of industrial exoskeleton (ExR counts more than 70 different models at this point, see: catalog – industrial exo devices)
How to reduce the wearability gap?
Hurdles to overcome with semi-active (also known as quasi-passive or hybrid) exoskeletons.
How to increase device transparency.
Ranking the main causes of discomfort (and abandonment) of exos.
Long-term vision: how to reach universal acceptance and device transparency.

The workshop aims to bring exoskeleton producers and academia together to foster discussions on current obstacles and research opportunities. It will include presentations from both sides in addition to product demonstrations.
Scheduled Presentations:

Kevin De Pauw – From proof of concept to market-proof robotics devices; Where neurophysiology meets bioengineering
Andrea Calanca – Exoskeleton Control: from Actuation to Augmentation
Massimo Sartori/Mohamed Irfan Refai – Estimating the Operator’s Payloads by Means of Personalized Neuromechanical Models
Jesus Orti -Extending the capabilities of active exoskeletons: actuation and control strategies Advanced Robotics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia
Stefano Toxiri – Occupational exoskeletons: Proteso’s experience and thoughts on achieving their impact on a global scale
Emanuele Palazzi – Fully actuated lower-limb exoskeleton for operators’ assistance and power augmentation in Industry 4.0: RoboSuits state-the-art and case studies
Shirley Elprama – Towards sustainable exoskeletons and user acceptance.
Philipp Beckerle/Rodrigo Velasco – Human-centered Exoskeletons: Enhancing Design and Control through User Involvement

Demonstrations:

LEX – The Light Exoskeleton by Robosuits
Proteso Exoskeleton by Proteso
Exo4Work, a prototype from Vrije Universiteit Brussel, VUB (reference: Kevin De Pauw)
AGtuator, a prototype from the University of Verona (reference: Andrea Calanca)
EMG-based control testbed, a prototype from the University of Verona (reference: Andrea Calanca)

Registration and Additional Information:
Visit the workshops’ website: https://metropolis.scienze.univr.it/ieee-case-2024-workshop-on-industrial-exoskeletons/
About the Ltair Robotics Lab:
Altair Robotics Laboratory is an Italian Center of Excellence in the research and development of advanced robotic systems.
It was founded in 2001 by computer science Professor Paolo Fiorini concurrently with the establishment of the courses in Automatic Control and Robotics in the Computer Science Department of the University of Verona. website
About the Neuromuscular Robotics Lab:
The Neuromechanical Modeling and Engineering Lab at the University of Twente is part of the Department of Biomechanical Engineering. This research entity in the Netherlands focuses on the interface between robotics technologies and neuromuscular systems with the intent of enhancing human movement for both healthy and impaired individuals. This includes exoskeleton and wearable robotics research. website
About 2024 IEEE 20th International Conference on Automation Science and Engineering(CASE 2024)
It is one of the three flagship conferences of the IEEE Robotics & Automation Society and provides a primary forum for cross-industry multidisciplinary research in automation. CASE 2024 will be held on August 28 – September 1, 2024, in Puglia (or Apulia), Italy.
The conference will focus on Automation 5.0: automation everywhere for better and smarter living and will include tutorials and workshops (including this occupational exoskeleton one), a technical program of presentations, keynote lectures, and social events. The conference will cover a wide range of topics on Systems, Automation, Control theory, Autonomous Systems, Discrete Event Systems, Smart Cities, Robotics, Building Automation, Smart Mobility, Information and Communication Technologies, and Factory 4.0.

Update May 6, 2024. Added the Neuromuscular Robotics Lab at the University of Twente of a co-organizer.

BioRob 2024 Heidelberg, Germany
2024-09-01 - 2024-09-04 | Neue Universität complex, Universitätsplatz 1, 69117, Heidelberg, Germany
The IEEE International Conference on Biomedical Robotics and Biomechatronics – BioRob2024 is scheduled for September 1-4, 2024. The conference page does not specifically mention the word “exoskeletons” but almost half of the images on the front pages features them. The event will feature exo technology related topics such as:

Rehabilitation robotics
Biologically-inspired robotics
Bioinspired and bio-applied soft robots
Neurorobotics
Human-machine and brain-machine interfaces
Wearable technologies
Robots for home care and aging
Human augmentation

The 10th iteration of BioRob is a collaborative endeavor between two IEEE Societies: Robotics and Automation (RAS) and Engineering in Medicine and Biology (EMBS).
“BioRob delves into both theoretical and practical challenges arising from the integration of robotics and mechatronics into medicine and biology. The main objective of Biorobotics is to evaluate biological systems through a ‘biomechatronic’ lens, striving to unravel the scientific and engineering principles that underpin their exceptional performance.”
Invited speakers from universities withe so research include: MIT, ETH Zürich, National University of Singapore, École Polytechnique Fédérale De Lausanne and others.
Information and Registration: https://www.biorob2024.org

ASTM Exo Games 2024
2024-08-05 - 2024-08-08 | ASTM Internaionl HQ, 100 Barr Harbor Dr, Conshohocken, PA, United States
The second ASTM International Exo Games will be held August 5-8, 2024, at the ASTM International Headquarters in West Conshohocken, Philadelphia, PA, U.S. This will be the second time the standards body brings together college students from all over the world in a friendly competition of innovation, ingenuity, and problem-solving on a budget.
More information will be posted here as it becomes available. By all accounts, the event should be similar to the inaugural Exo Games held in the second half of 2023. See Exoskeleton Report Magazine Volum 1 Issue 1, page 4 for more coverage.
Additional Information:
For the complete overview, agenda, location information, participant lists, FAQs, and detailed information on every challenge, awards, judges, and sponsorship opportunity, visit the ET CoE website: https://www.etcoe.org/new-events-1/exogames2024
Update:
The Exo Technology Center of Excellence (ET CoE) announced the 2024 judges panel. Their number has gone from three to ten, and what a list it is! The judges will oversee the excitement and innovation of the Exo Games, evaluating precision and applauding creativity. See image below:

Workshop: Exoskeleton Day - in French
2024-06-18 | Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne, Chemin Alan Turing, Ecublens VD EPFL, Bâtiment BC 410, Lausanne, Switzerland
The Robotics Innovation Booster and the Foundation pour la Recherche en faveur des personnes Handicapées will hold a full-day workshop. The workshop will be free of charge. However, space will be limited, so early registration is a must! Unlike most other events listed on the Exoskeleton Report that are in English, this event will be in French.
The workshop’s full name is Optimization of Exoskeleton Design through Exploration of Ergonomics. The event aims to bring together a broad spectrum of participants, from experts to newly initiated enthusiasts. Optimizing exoskeleton comfort, user interactions, and optimization will be part of the overarching themes across all presentations.
Tentative Agenda:

09:00 – 10:00 Welcome Coffee and Opening Remarks by Organizers
10:00 – 10:15 Introduction to Case Studies
10:30 – 11:30 Panel on Case Study 1: Optimization of Ergonomic Design
Focus on ergonomics Evaluation of comfort, movement support, and fatigue reduction
11:30 – 12:30 Panel on Case Study 2: Integration of Control System
12:30 – 13:30 Lunch
13:30 – 16:45 Ideation Workshop + Coffee Break
16:45 – 17:00 Conclusion and Wrap-up

Location:
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne, BC Building (Building of the IC Faculty), Chemin Alan Turing, Ecublens VD, EPFL, Bâtiment BC 410, Switzerland
Language:
French
Additional information and registration:
https://ntnrobotics.com/en/event/exoskeleton-day/
About Robotics Innovation Booster:
Innovation Booster Robotics promotes knowledge transfer and encourages cooperation with partners along the entire value chain of robotics. The organization has supported at least one exoskeleton company but mainly focuses on classical robotics. Website: https://ntnrobotics.com/en/

SSNR: Summer School on Neurorehabilitation 2024
2024-06-16 - 2024-06-21 | Parador de Baiona, Av. Arquitecto Jesús Valverde, 3,, Bayona, Pontevedra, Spain
The Summer School on NeuroRehabilitation, SSNR2024 will begin with a welcome session and cocktail the evening of Sunday, June 16, 2024 and will run until Friday, June 21, 2024 at 14:00. Applications are open until April 30, 2024. The venue is the beautiful and historic Parador de Baiona.
The registration fee includes the school and scientific program, half-board accommodation, breakfast and lunch for five neighs, a Welcome Reception, a Gala Dinner and a social program.
Sponsors of the Summer School include Fourier Intelligence, the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Technaid, the International Consortium for Rehabilitation Robotics (ICORR). The main organizers behind the event are the Prof. Dr. José L. Pons, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Prof. Dario Farina, Imperial College London, and Prof. Jesús Tornero & Ms. Rocío Fernandez, Hospital Los Madroños.
Additional information and registration: https://2024.summerschoolneurorehabilitation.org
This is the 6th school on Nerurehabilitation, and exoskeleton technology has only become more relevant to the topic over the years.
Featured Image: Walls of the Parador de Baiona by Monica Vila Ferreiros from Getty Images, via Canva Pro. Planetary lectures will feature experts on Neurehabilitation, adaptive learning, robotic-furniture, spinal injury, physical rehabilitation, transitioning research into products and much more from experts from around the entire globe.

6th Annual Human Performance & Biosystems Summit
2024-06-12 - 2024-06-13 | The Sunset Room, National Harbor, MD, 137 National Plaza, Oxon Hill, MD, Oxon Hill, 20745, United States
The Defense Strategies Institute’s 6th Annual Human Performance & Biosystems Summit will convene senior level experts and decision makers from across the DoD, Military Research Labs, Industry, and Academia for in-depth discussions on the latest advancements and innovations in human performance capabilities that ensure the peak performance and health of the Warfighter. The 2024 Summit will highlight current and future efforts to strengthen the physical, mental, nutritional, and social fitness of the Joint Force to optimize performance and maximize potential.
This year’s Summit will explore strategies and initiatives on promoting holistic wellness programs for the long-term physical and mental well-being of Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Guardians, and Airmen both on and off the battlefield. Senior leaders from across the Armed Forces will address the importance of prioritizing a well-rounded, sustainable, & preventive approach to health, fitness, and wellness.
DSI is now welcoming Sponsors and Exhibitors for the forum. To learn more please contact Dudley Duverne at dduverne@dsigroup.org or (201) 987-1803.
Active military and government and state personnel attend complimentary. Those interested in participating in the Human Performance & Biosystems Summit can visit Defense Strategies Institute’s website athttps://humanperformance.dsigroup.org/. Anyone interested in learning more or sending questions please contact Jessica Joaquim at jjoaquim@dsigroup.org or (201) 824-0077.
What to expect with relations to exoskeleton technology?
The Human Performance & Biosystems Summit is not an exoskeleton or wearable robotics specific event, however, it promises to be a good venue to learn about the needs of the armed forces and asses opportunities for wearable technology to make a difference. Wearables don’t have to be used for active combat to make a difference either. As an example, devices that can help with logistics and/or reduce injury during training could be just as impactful.

WT | Seminar on Exoskeletons & Wearable Robots
2024-06-11 | Heidelberg, Kurfürsten Anlage 3, Heidelberg, 69115, Germany
Wearable Technologies AG will present its first seminar focused exclusively on wearable robotics. This will be a one-day in-person event on June 11, 2024 in Heidelberg, Germany.
Check the event’s website for further information: link to WT
About Wearable Technologies AG:
WT has been running conferences focused on wearable technologies with a business to business (B2B) focus. This will be the first seminar on robotic exoskeletons in combination with wearable technologies. This event will be excellent for those interested in the latest in wearable robotics.
More information will be released on the event’s main website as the time gets closer to it.

Pop-up Living Lab for Wearable Technologies
2024-06-11 - 2024-09-18 | Heidelberg, Kurfürsten Anlage 3, Heidelberg, 69115, Germany
The Living Lab will be a wearable technology pop-up in the heart of Europe! The event will run from June 11th to September 21st, but companies need to register and reserve spots now. The pop-up will be in Heidelberg, Kurfürsten Anlage 3, 69115. The event will be part of the “Summer of Wearable Technologies” with three wearable conferences happening in the city, approximately halfway between Frankfurt and Stuttgart:

WT Conference
IEEE Biorob 2024
Shift Medical

This is a free marketing opportunity for exoskeleton companies and producers to showcase your products in open spaces, tables, and booths. The event will also allow for product testing, and the best way to explain what an exoskeleton is to feel it on you.

To secure space, contact Claudia Sandoval-López, PhD and she will be happy to help you. More information can also be found at https://lnkd.in/ebUAQC5P

AExG Q1 2024 Meeting
2024-06-05 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Online
The Automotive Exoskeleton Group, AExG, is scheduled to hold its next quarterly meeting on May 8th, from 10 a.m. to noon. Update time: Wednesday, June 5th, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. This will be an online meeting conducted over Microsoft Teams as an Online Event. The AExG quarterly meetings are a good way to stay up to date on practical industrial/occupational exoskeletons and connect with application experts in the field (as opposed to developers or researchers).
One component of the meeting will be an overview of future exoskeleton-related events and an opportunity for everyone attending to add to the calendar.
Visit the AExG website for more information: https://www.aexg.org, but note that the best way to get involved is through their LinkedIn group: LinkedIn.
Prior AExG meetings included exoskeleton and ergonomic conference and trade show recaps, presentation summaries, discussions, and more.

3rd ICORR Webinar: Functional Assessment for Upper-Limb Differences
2024-06-03 07:00 - 08:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Online
The International Consortium for Rehabilitation Robotics, ICORR, has a new webinar series that regularly features exoskeleton technology. The 3rd ICORR Webinar will be live on YouTube on June 3rd, 2024, at 4 pm CET (7 am Pacific Time). This one-hour webinar will be titled “Functional assessment, a.k.a. Putting user AND device in the picture!” It is unclear what percentage of it would be explicitly devoted to exoskeleton technology.
The main topics will be functional assessment for upper-limb differences, how to assess the acceptance, effectiveness, usability, and potential impact on society of rehabilitation robots—in particular for the upper limb—whether the current solutions are viable, how we can improve them, and how we know that the devices and therapies we design are effective and well received by our patients.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LuNQIu8Ang
This webinar will be a panel discussion by:

Corry van der Sluis
Liselotte Hermansson
Wendy Hill
Jacqueline Hebert
With moderator: Claudio Castellini

For a link to the YouTube webinar, visit the ICORR Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@ICORRConsortium
“The ICORR webinar series are meant to raise awareness and disseminate research in RR [rehabilitation robotics], to a mid-level audience, typically from the M.Sc. student on.” The 3rd webinar follows the webinars #1 (soft exo-suits) and #2 (prosthetic control).

Gogoa Prize 2024: The MedTech Design Challenge - Deadline
2024-05-30 | Online
Attention Spanish innovators and creators: The Gogoa Prize 2024 MedTech Design Challenge registration deadline is May 30th, 2024!
Who can participate:
This friendly competition is open to students of any discipline of Engineering and Technology who are pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Postgraduate studies from 2023-2024. The competition is focused on Spain, but it doesn’t hurt to reach out to the organizers and confirm language and regional guidelines and limitations. You can participate individually or in teams of up to 4 people.
The challenge:
Design of an exoskeleton to assist the motor skills of the elderly. Do you think medical exoskeletons are too expensive or too slow? How would you approach them? For example, we (ExR) have seen companies like Seismic use coiled ropes to bypass the need for transmission to transform high-speed low-torque rotation to low-speed high-torque linear movement, which is not too different from a Roman catapult. It doesn’t have to be a high-tech, complicated idea for it to be good!
Visit https://www.gogoa.eu/en/gogoaprize for registration, evaluation criteria, and additional information.
Announced is a €1,000+ award from Gogoga Mobility Robots, in addition to a communication blast by the company for the winner or winning team!
Will you participate in Cybathlon 2024, the ASTM ExoGames 2024, or the Gogoa Challenge!? This year is full of opportunities for students to make a difference and be recognized in the field of wearable robotics!

Assist Suit Association Summit in Fukuoka
2024-05-30 - 2024-05-31 | Hakata International Exhibition Center & Conference Center, 305 2-22-15, Toko, Hakata-ku,, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture, 812-0008, Japan
The Japanese Assist Suit Association has announced its fourth public event to raise awareness of occupational exoskeletons and similar products and reinforce the formation of an emerging market. The exo “experience” will be held at the Hakata International Exhibition Center & Conference Center, located at 305 2-22-15, Toko, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture 812-0008, on:

May 30, 2024 (Thursday) 13:00 to 17:00
May 31, 2024 (Friday) 10:00-16:00

Entrance will be free, and visitors will not require advanced registration. The venue is accessible to people with disabilities.
Exhibitors:
The event is organized by the Assist Suit Association (https://assist-suit.org). There are 8 exhibitors scheduled to show off their technology at the summit (company name and product line):

Archelis Inc. 　[Archelis]
Innophys Co., Ltd.　[Muscle Suit series]
KAJI CORPORATION 　[Laevo exoskeltons]
DAYDO CO., LTD. [TASK series]
Nippon Sigmax Co., Ltd.　[MEDIAID ASSIST GEAR WAIST UNIT (elastic products)]
Daiya Industry Co., Ltd. [DARWING series]

Asahicho Corporation [e.z.UP® (Easy up)]
Kurabo Industries Ltd. [CBW]

There was a real impact in demonstrating occupational exoskeletons as a product family at the 2023 ExoPark held at A+A. Over one dozen exoskeleton producers reached critical mass in a single united showroom area. The Assist Suit Association Summit in Fukuoka will likely capture some of that same magic and introduce wearable assistive technology. After all, the best way to understand an exosuit is to wear one for yourself.
For more information and registration, visit: https://assist-suit.org/expo-fukuoka2024

Updated April 30, 2024: corrections to the spelling of the participating company’s names.

DEBEXOS 24: Workshop on Emerging Technologies and Challenges For Exoskeletons
2024-04-16 - 2024-04-17 | Defence Bioengineering & Electromedical Laboratory(DEBEL), ADE Campus, CV Raman Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Just around the corner is the first ever: International Workshop on Emerging Technologies and Challenges for Exoskeletons. This first ever event will take place in India, from April 16-17. It is organized by the Defence Bioengineering & Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL). The workshop is schedule to feature a plethora of speakers from India an Europe.
This is the first in India dedicated in “the spirit of intellectual curiosity and innovative zeal in the development of human-centric exoskeleton technologies.” The event is targeted for researchers, developers, professionals, policymakers, and users. One of the expected goals of the workshop is to develop a comprehensive roadmap from design and assumptions through evolution strategies and regulatory standards.
Information and registration: https://debelexo.github.io/debelEXO/index.html

ExoBerlin 2024
2024-04-16 - 2024-04-17 | WISTA Management Conventions. Rudower Chaussee 17, 12489 Berlin, Germany, Rudower Chaussee 17, Berlin, 12489, Germany
The 4th International Exhibition & Conference on Human-Augmentation Robots, also known as ExoBerlin, has moved and is now scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, April 16, – 17, 2024, in Berlin, Germany. This year’s conference will be in-person, with no virtual or hybrid option. Even though it is in Germany, the preferred conference language will be in English.
This year’s ExoBerlin will be a joint assistive robotics and cobots conference. Expected technology topics include:

Exoskeletons, exosuits, soft robotics, intelligent prosthetics, and supernumerary limbs.
Wearable sensors, monitoring, motion analysis, and biofeedback devices.
Discussions on advances in actuators, transmission, and controllers.
Industrial/healthcare collaborative robots, how to evaluate and deploy them.
Safety standards for cobots and integration strategies.

For 2024, the conference organizers are adding a new section on Human-Centered Sensing. The new section will include physiological monitoring sensors, sensors specifically for assistive robots and human-machine interfaces, movement analysis, teleoperation, and more.
Past ExoBerlin Conferences:

EXOberlin 2022 – Onsite Report
EXOberlin 2019 – Onsite Report
2019 & 2018 Overview of the Conference Presentations, ExoBerlin, link

13th Meeting of Committee F48 on Exoskeletons
2024-04-10 - 2024-04-12 | Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1201 Market St, Philadelphia, PA, United States
Dates: April 10-12, 2024
Location: Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1201 Market St, Philadelphia, PA
About: The April 2024 Committee Week features the 13th meeting of ASTM Committee F48 on Exoskeletons and Exosuits, formed to develop consensus standards for exoskeletons and exosuits. This committee addresses safety, quality, performance, ergonomics, and terminology throughout the product’s life cycle, covering various applications from industrial to consumer, passive to active systems, and physical to cognitive integration.
Subcommittees: F48 boasts six technical subcommittees working on standards.
Frequency: The entire Committee meets biannually, spanning 2 to 3 days of technical discussions, while subcommittees and technical groups work separately.
More Info & Registration: ASTM Committee F48 Site

Barrow Robotics and Technology Symposium
2024-04-06 - 2024-04-07 | Barrow Neurological Institute, 2910 North 3rd Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, United States
The Barrow Neurological Institute will be hosting a two day in-person course on medical rehabilitation robotics with a heavy emphasis on exoskeleton technology. This interdisciplinary symposium will take place over a single weekend, from Saturday April 6 to Sunday April 7, 2025 in sunny Phoenix, Arizona. While this is not a substitute for the WearRAcon medical track, which usually takes place at this time and place, many of the same medical exo producers will feature devices there. This event is meant for occupational therapists, physical therapists, robotics/neurotechnology vendors, and engineers. The symposium will focus on the current evidence-based practice and research for the use of robotics and technology in physical therapy.
Registration, Program, and Additional Information:
Link to the symposium’s website.
Opportunity to earn continuing educational credit.
Exoskeleton Producers Expected to Participate:

Fourier Intelligence
Ekso Bionics
ReWalk
Harmonic Bionics
Myomo
Bioservo
NextStep Robotics

Host, Faculty, and Guest Faculty:

Trent Maruyama – Program Manager
Michael T. Lawton
Jeremy Palmiscno
Sam Schaffer
Nicholas Au Yong
Arun Jayaraman
Zen Kog
Rohit John Varghese
Lyana Welch

Brochure:
Fullscreen Mode

April 5th Deadline: ASTM Exo Games Team Entry
2024-04-05 | ASTM Internaionl HQ, 100 Barr Harbor Dr, Conshohocken, PA, United States
To participate in the ASTM Exo Games 2024, teams are required to express their interest and submit a Team Description Paper (TDP) by April 5. The TDP should detail the design process, hardware, software, improvements, and CAD drawings. A template for the TDP will be provided by the ET CoE, which teams can request by submitting their interest. It’s important to note that failure to submit a TDP by the deadline results in disqualification from the competition, and late submissions are not accepted. Participation rules emphasize adherence to these guidelines. For detailed information and to submit interest, visit the ASTM Exo Games website.
To emphasize the importance of this deadline, teams interested in participating in the Exo Games 2024 must submit the form expressing their interest in entering and filling out all additional overview documentation (roughly five pages total).
Essential Links: Participate – ET CoE Website
History of the Exo Games:
The first Exo Games, hosted by the University of Central Lancashire and ASTM International’s Exo Technology Center of Excellence, marked a significant gathering of student teams from various countries. These teams, guided by ASTM exoskeleton standards and a strict budget, competed in challenges designed to test their custom-built exosuits integrated with fall protection harnesses. The event, emphasizing innovation within constraints, showcased creativity, technical skill, and adherence to safety standards. It also served as a platform for fostering STEM education, linking research and standards, and promoting human-centered design in exoskeleton technology. This pioneering event not only celebrated the achievements of the participating teams but also set the stage for future Exo Games, highlighting the growing importance of exoskeleton technology in education and research. Read our full coverage of the Exo Games 2023 in the Exoskeleton Report Digital Magazine Vol 1 Issue 1, pages 4 – 6, published September 13, 2023.
About the Exo Games 2024:
The 2nd Annual Exo Games, sponsored by ASTM International’s Exo Technology Center of Excellence, focuses on engaging students in exo technologies, particularly for First Responder applications. Partnering with NIST through a CRADA agreement, the event aims to develop exoskeleton metrology and boost student STEM involvement. It allows university teams to design, build, and test exoskeletons based on specific project specifications and ASTM standards. This competition encourages innovation and simulates First Responder scenarios, providing a hands-on learning experience and fostering industry connections. (visit to the competition page)
The 2024 iteration of the Exo Games will be held at the ASTM International Headquarters, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428, from August 5 to 9, 2024, but the first day will be dedicated mainly for teams to set up and will not be open to the general public. Note that closed-toe shoes will be required for entry.
The Exo Games 2024 comprises ten unique challenges designed to test exoskeletons in scenarios mimicking real-world tasks. These include a Bomb Squad Walk with a weighted vest and manual dexterity task, Cache Packaging involving moving varying weight totes, CPR performance after carrying a medical bag over inclines, a complex Townhouse Search, and Firehose Deployment involving hose manipulation. Additional tests include Fire Overhaul using a fire hook for various tasks, Confined Space navigation, Don/Doff for Vehicle Entry focusing on exoskeleton usability, Valve Turning at various heights, and finally, an Ascend and Descend Stairs challenge. These tests evaluate exoskeletons’ practicality, safety, and efficiency in real-life applications. The same exoskeleton and user must be utilized in all the challenges.
From the Exoskeleton Report team, good luck to all of the teams!

Webinar Round Table: Innovation et exosquelettes au travail
2024-03-27 17:30 - 19:30 (Europe/Paris) | Online
Virtua-Hybrid Roundtable: Innovations et exosquelettes au travail : des avancées considérables en prévention et santé au travail (Innovations and exoskeletons at work: considerable advances in prevention and occupational women health).
This will be a roundtable discussion on exoskeleton advancements for work, featuring multiple experts in the field. The event and discussion will be in French.
Additional information and registration at: https://www.cercle-es.com/inscription-conference-en-hybride-27-mars-24-a-lille-18e-ux-forum_innovation-et-exosquelettes-au-travail/
Agenda overview:

Discussions and feedback of occupational exoskeletons
Promising examples in the Hauts de France*
👷 ♀️ Focus on women

*AI’s input Hauts-de-France:
Hauts-de-France is a region in northern France. It includes major cities like Lille, Amiens, and Calais and features a range of geographical areas, from the coastline along the English Channel to inland agricultural and industrial areas. Hauts-de-France has become an essential cultural and economic hub in France.

27th Applied Ergonomics Conference 2024
2024-03-25 - 2024-03-28 | Kentucky Internional Convention Center, 221 S. 4th S, Lousville, KY, United States
The 27th Applied Ergonomics Conference will be held this March 25-28, 2024 in Louisville, Kentucky. This is not a a conference that is solely dedicated to exoskeletons and wearable robotics, however, there are some developers expected to present.
Furthermore, this year’s conference keynote speaker will feature Marty Smets, Technical Expert, Corporate & UAW Ergonomics
Ford Motor Co., who is an expert at occupational exoskeleton adoption, though his keynote speech will likely only touch on exo technology.
There will be other exoskeleton presentations, including one by Marisol Barrero, who is a board member and founder of the Automotive Exoskeleton Group (AExG) and the Director of Safety Applications for the Wearable Robotics Association (WearRA).
For schedule and registration visit: https://www.iise.org/AEC/default.aspx
Two years ago, the conference also held a workshop on industrial exoskeletons. It included an overview of the state of the art of exoskeleton technology for industrial and occupational applications followed up by exoskeleton implementation best practices and examples on the organizational level. Matthew Marino will lead attendees through an exercise on creating their very own exoskeleton implementation plan. While this year’s Applied Ergonomic Conference does not include an exoskeleton workshop, it demonstrates their history and commitment to introducing exo technology to the professional ergonomist community.
