Significance and Use
4.1 This guide provides a set of recommended quantitative measures which can be used to assess the task or human readiness, or both, of exoskeletons. All of the quantitative measures are used in ergonomic research to assist in objectively concluding the efficacy of an assessed metric.
4.2 Not every element of this guide may be applicable to all exoskeleton components or configurations. Nor are all the quantitative measures herein exhaustive. Selection of quantitative measures should be done based on the uncertainties surrounding the end use application of the exoskeleton. It is the manufacturer’s responsibility to determine which portions of this guide, and the corresponding measures, are applicable to their exoskeletons.
4.3 The ability to reproduce analysis between exoskeleton usage vs. non-exoskeleton usage is critical criteria in using a quantitative measures approach. A control method for reproducibility in a quantitative measures approach is a repeated measures design. A repeated measures design involves multiple measures of the same variable taken on the same end user, either under different conditions or over two or more time periods. The salient aspect of a repeated measures design is using the end user as the control.
Scope
1.1 This guide provides quantitative measures for assessing one or more specific ergonomic parameters with respect to exoskeletons. Furthermore, this guide should be used in conjunction with Practice F3474, Guide F3519, and Standard Guide for The Application of Ergonomics to Prevent Injury During Exoskeleton Use2.
1.2 This guide provides quantitative measures for the design, use, and construction of exoskeletons within the domains of industry, military, medical, first responders, and recreational.
1.2.1 Quantitative measures are a type of data that can be put into a numerical value. This type of measure allows statistical analysis to be performed on the data to yield an objective result.
1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
