Saskia Baltrusch

55 Chapter 3 Forward Bend Standing, One-handed Bank Position Static holding is often required in manual work and is also included in the FCE. We chose two different postures that are frequently used at work sites and that involve a small trunk inclination angle (Forward Bending Stand) and a large trunk inclination angle (One Handed Bank Position, i.e. sitting in a kneeled position supported by one hand on the floor while the other hand performs a task). Walking Walking is done at almost any work place. To asses walking, we chose the “6 Minutes Walk Test”, which is commonly used to measure walking performance [17]. Since walking performance is dependent on aerobic capacity, but also on walking economy and potentially also on mechanical load and discomfort, this test appears suitable for assessing the effect of wearing an exoskeleton on the functional walking capacity. Sit to Stand This task was chosen to assess the effect of the exoskeleton on relevant transfer movements. The “Sit to Stand” is a test that is frequently used in clinical settings [18]. We considered this task as relevant , given the fact that the exoskeleton should not hinder the user in sitting down or getting up during work. Stair Climbing and Ladder Climbing Stair Climbing, as part of the FCE protocol, is considered to be an important work-related activity. After observations of occupational tasks, we also added ladder climbing, given its frequent appearance in various branches of industry that also entail heavy lifting. Rotation of the trunk, Squatting, Bending the trunk These basic movement tasks were chosen to assess to what extent range of motion would be limited by the device. Wide Stance This basic movement task was added to the test battery after workplace observations, realizing that wide stance was often performed to ensure safe standing when performing manual work. The potential hindrance by the device due to the leg pads was a reason to include this task. 3