Knee pain, reduced range of motion, risk of protrusions, chronic back discomfort, loss of concentration, and an increase in errors by the end of the shift. These are the challenges retail workers face daily, often covering between 15,000 to 20,000 steps during their 8-10 hour shifts. Robotic technologies, particularly exoskeletons, help preserve employee health and, as a result, increase work efficiency. This is a solution used by the world’s largest companies and has already become an indispensable daily tool.
Recently, employees of the international wholesale trading company METRO began testing Hypershell wearable exoskeletons. For the company, this is not their first experience with such solutions.
“We’ve had cases of using exoskeletons for the arms, back, and trapezius, but this is the first time we’re using them for the legs. I want to make the work of my employees easier so they get less tired. I like Hypershell because it will be useful for delivery specialists who are constantly on the assembly line, on their feet, needing to complete tasks quickly, and, of course, people get tired during their shifts. Therefore, I’m looking for a solution to ease physical exertion and reduce the risk of occupational diseases,” said Artem Kostyuchenko, the lead engineer for labor protection at TC 10 METRO Cash and Carry.
First, the specialist will personally test the Hypershell exoskeleton and, by example, show employees the convenience and all its benefits, especially in expanding the body’s capabilities with technological support. The exoskeleton creates a safe working environment, protecting employees from additional injuries.
Exoskeletons are divided into passive and active types. The former rely on mechanical systems such as levers, springs, and counterweights, and don’t require external power sources. They support the lower back, shoulders, and legs, helping workers maintain better posture. Active exoskeletons, such as Hypershell, are equipped with batteries for stronger support and can adapt to human movements in real time, reducing the load when lifting or transporting heavy or bulky loads.
Hypershell exoskeletons offer:
- Up to 30% less physical strain on the legs and joints, allowing retail workers to work longer without fatigue or pain;
- Up to 40% more efficient movements, helping workers move faster and with less effort, improving productivity in warehouses and retail outlets;
- Up to 20% more endurance during long shifts, reducing fatigue and ensuring consistent performance throughout the workday.
AI adaptation provides automatic support adjustments depending on the activity type (lifting, moving, working with customers), ensuring the optimal level of assistance for each task.
The use of exoskeletons in retail is a global practice. For instance, IKEA was one of the first to implement passive exoskeleton innovation, purchasing 400 units for employees in 14 countries. This helped reduce the physical load during warehouse tasks involving goods movement.
In Ukraine, employees of Nova Poshta and Ukrposhta were among the first to start testing Hypershell, which led to up to a 30% increase in physical capabilities. In the case of running, the Hypershell exoskeleton showed stabilization of the pulse and saved a third of the effort during the same distance as without the exoskeleton.
At a rehabilitation center, experts noted the exoskeleton’s advantages in supporting limb movement and unloading the lower limbs. Thanks to the ability to adjust functions and set up personal scenarios, Hypershell can be useful in cases of amputations, multiple traumas, traumatic brain injuries, paresis, and cognitive disorders.
As wearable technologies develop, adaptation will become increasingly crucial, making the introduction of the latest technologies into production processes an integral part of business operations.
DroneUA thanks the METRO chain of stores for their cooperation and proactive approach to integrating exoskeletons into the work of their specialists. This is a prime example of a business’s responsibility to ensure comfortable and safe working conditions.
The full video case can be viewed here:
