Logistics operator Nova Poshta has launched Ukraine's first pilot project using exoskeletons in warehouse operations. At one of the company's terminals, employees are already testing special robotic structures that help them during physical exertion.
Logistics operator Nova Poshta has launched Ukraine's first pilot project using exoskeletons in warehouse operations. At one of the company's terminals, employees are already testing special robotic structures that help them during physical exertion.
We are talking about the use of Hypershell brand exoskeletons, which were recently tested by the dev.ua editorial team. Four models are participating in the pilot launch: X GO, X PRO, X CARBON and X ULTRA.
These devices are attached to the worker's back and legs. Their main task is to support muscles during repetitive actions: squatting, lifting weights, walking or turning between racks.
According to the company, exoskeletons can compensate for up to 30% of the physical effort that a person would normally expend. In practice, this means that the worker is less tired at the end of a shift, and their back and legs receive additional support.
Novaya Poshta explains that full automation of all processes is currently impossible or economically inexpedient, so the company is looking for ways to make people's physical labor easier.
“We strive to make work at terminals and depots safer and more comfortable… For us, it is important not only how the use of exoskeletons affects the level of fatigue or the stability of the pace of work, but also that they are comfortable, easy to adapt to, and safe,” commented the company’s R&D director, Yevgeny Khomenko.
The stage of data collection and feedback from staff is currently underway. The company is analyzing which of the models is best suited to the intensive rhythm of Ukrainian terminals. If the test results are considered successful, the technology can be scaled to the entire network.
And read more about how the Hypershell exoskeleton works in the material of dev.ua journalist Igor Vishnevsky, who tested on his own back how useful such a gadget can be in everyday life.
