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JRM Vol.37 No.3 pp. 700-709
doi: 10.20965/jrm.2025.p0700
(2025)

Paper:

High Force-Weight Ratio Lower Back Assistive Device Using Lightweight Design and Passive Pneumatic Mechanism

Yuri Shinta*, Tomoki Toyama**, Motohiro Kitaura***, and Yasuyuki Yamada* ORCID Icon

*Department of System Design, Faculty of Engineering and Design, Hosei University
2-33 Ichigayatamachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0843, Japan

**Department of System Design, Graduate School of Engineering and Design, Hosei University
2-33 Ichigayatamachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0843, Japan

***Department of Manufacturing, Atelier-K Ltd.
4-5-12 Tadera, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0086, Japan

Received:
March 27, 2024
Accepted:
February 5, 2025
Published:
June 20, 2025
Keywords:
assistive device, pneumatic system, air cylinder, wearable device, exoskeleton structure
Abstract

The high rate of lower back pain in workplaces that involve lifting heavy loads is a worldwide problem. Various lower back assistive devices have been developed to reduce the lower back burden during lifting work; however, they often have issues such as weight, workability with them and more, and are not used continuously in workplaces after purchasing. In this study, we conducted parameter adjustments of the pneumatic spring using a single-acting air cylinder to develop a device capable of assisting in lifting tasks. We performed requirements analysis, modeled lifting movements, examined various parameters of the assistance device, and designed skeletal structures and attachment components to meet the target weight.

Pneumatic assist device for lifting tasks

Pneumatic assist device for lifting tasks

Cite this article as:
Y. Shinta, T. Toyama, M. Kitaura, and Y. Yamada, “High Force-Weight Ratio Lower Back Assistive Device Using Lightweight Design and Passive Pneumatic Mechanism,” J. Robot. Mechatron., Vol.37 No.3, pp. 700-709, 2025.
Data files:
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Last updated on Jun. 20, 2025