As part of the “Air Defender 23” exercise, the German Armed Forces are testing the potential and possible areas of application of so-called exoskeletons. The initial focus is on work that is easier on the back.
24 nations with 220 aircraft are taking part in the Air Defender 23 deployment exercise. To refuel them, the Armed Forces Base is building a field refueling depot with Special Engineer Regiment 164 at the air base in Wunstorf, Lower Saxony. A pipeline is to be built for this purpose. Some soldiers wear exoskeletons during this physically demanding work.
The term exoskeleton refers to a construction made of straps, springs and rods that is attached to the torso and thighs. The technology’s claim is to alleviate workload. “An exoskeleton retracts the upper body when lifting an object from a stooped position, thus relieving the lower back and the intervertebral discs there,” explains an employee of the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation. Under the leadership of the Future Development and Digitalization Unit in the Armed Forces Base Command, the research project “Use of Exoskeletons in Armed Forces Base Logistics” is testing the technology. In addition to reducing stress during lifting operations, exoskeletons must meet other requirements. Even if soldiers wear an exoskeleton, they must still be able to enter and operate Bundeswehr vehicles without restriction. Furthermore, the research project of the Fraunhofer Institute and the Armed Forces Base is testing whether it is possible to enter positions without restrictions even when wearing an exoskeleton. Another important aspect for the researchers is how quickly the device can be removed when needed.
Success of exercise will determine future use
The preliminary results in connection with the Air Defender 23 are positive. The test subjects report a noticeable reduction in physical strain. Whether the technology will find a permanent place in the logistics of the armed forces base will be decided after the final evaluation of the exercise. It also has to be determined whether special designs are needed or whether commercially available exoskeletons already meet the needs of the soldiers.