Robotic Exosuit Data Analytics Platform Enhances Worker Safety

Verve Motion has launched a new data analytics platform to generate insights and improve operation of its robotic exoskeletons for workplace safety.

The new platform, Verve Logic, integrates into Verve’s SafeLift exosuit and works to identify actions that pose particular risks to workers and offer coaching to enhance both individual and group performance. 

SafeLift, which is worn like a backpack, leverages motion sensing and robotic assistance to offer physical support to industrial workers as they go about their day-to-day tasks, with a particular focus on lifting and moving heavy items.

The suit alleviates about 40% of the strain on a worker’s back during a typical workday, according to Verve.  

Sensors embedded in the suit collect 3D motion and force data. The Verve Logic platform uses the information to generate insights on factors such as lift count, usage duration and offloaded weight.

“The SafeLift exosuit development was informed through extended testing of human subjects where we collected biomechanics data in a lab environment to understand how an individual moves, and how much back offloading the suit provides,” said Conor Walsh, Verve’s scientific co-founder. 

“It is exciting now that Verve Motion is making this same type of data available to workers and their organizations through Verve Logic so they can understand injury risk reduction and optimize the use of SafeLift for their operations.” 

“The real-world impact of this technology stems from the exosuit's dual function,” said Christopher Buck, Verve’s head of product. “It not only protects workers from injuries by supporting their bodies during ergonomically risky lifts but also lessens the effort needed for all lifts, including those considered ‘safe.’

“As a result, workers can return home to their families unharmed and with enough energy to enjoy their lives outside of work.”