Canadian manufacturer Fraco has devised an exoskeleton to help workers lift concrete blocks.
The Quebec-based company says the Fraco Exoskeleton is the best way to reduce fatigue and the risk of injuries associated with handling concrete blocks on construction sites. It adds that it is also a way to counter the lack of labour force present in the construction industry.
Developed in collaboration with Mawashi Science and Technology (which is based in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec), the exoskeleton device is attached to several members of the human body to restore its mobility and reduce its effort. It is the result of an adaptation of the UPRISEmc exoskeleton developed by Mawashi for the military sector and is one of the first civilian applications of this model.
Armand Rainville, founder of Fraco, commented: “During my career as a mason, I have known so many workers who have had to leave the profession around the age of 40 because they have jeopardised their health by manoeuvring concrete blocks. We developed the Fraco Exoskeleton with all these workers in mind.”
The exoskeleton is being demonstrated at the World of Concrete exhibition in Las Vegas from February 4 to 7.
