Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.31298/sl.150.9-10.2
Applicability of Commercially Available Exoskeletons in Forestry Works
Matija Landekić
; University of Zagreb Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Zagreb, Croatia
Matej Matošević
; University of Zagreb Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Zagreb, Croatia
*
Mario Šporčić
; University of Zagreb Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Zagreb, Croatia
Zdravko Pandur
; University of Zagreb Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Zagreb, Croatia
Marin Bačić
; University of Zagreb Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Zagreb, Croatia
Matija Bakarić
; University of Zagreb Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Zagreb, Croatia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Global structural changes, such as rural depopulation, demographic aging, migration, sustainability issues etc., affect the available working capital in the forestry sector. Forestry operations are characterized by intensive physical labor and high occupational risks, with daily exposures to biomechanical overload, heavy lifting and awkward postures for workers. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are highlighted by scientific research as a significant health problem causing work disability, reduced productivity and a lower quality of life. In this context, the goal of the study was to evaluate the general and process-specific applicability of 18 exoskeletons manufactured between 2017 and 2025. A systematic review of major scientific databases was performed to gather data from relevant papers and technical specifications of commercial manufacturers. The evaluation was structured into a multi-step framework. First, qualitative technical data were converted into quantitative scores using 13 variables (Table 1) covering technical, validation and environmental aspects. Models were classified based on total scores, ranging from very low (≤15) to very high (≥28) general applicability in forestry. The 14 models that achieved high or very high general scores were analyzed using a technical evaluation matrix. To ensure critical variables had a realistic impact, proportional importance weights (Table 2) were assigned to seven specifically selected variables using the pairwise comparison method. The models were graded on a 1 to 5 scale across seven forestry-specific tasks within silvicultural, harvesting and arborist operations. The initial general applicability assessment showed that 83.33% of sampled systems utilize passive mechanisms and 72.22% were produced within the European Economic Area, led by Germany, as compiled in Table 3. Based on variables for general applicability, four models were placed in the very high general applicability category, while ten models were rated as high (Table 3). Active motorized systems received lower scores due to higher mass, lower environmental resistance and economic barriers; a cost comparison revealed that one active system of low applicability is equivalent in price to six highly applicable passive models. Distinct operational trends were identified during the process-specific analysis presented in Table 4. High compatibility for silvicultural operations was identified, where eight models achieved top scores (Table 4). Lightweight soft systems are ideal for forest tending due to back support during deep forward trunk flexion, while upper-limb and shoulder support models performed best for forest cleaning. In harvesting operations, 50% of the models achieved high applicability for motor-manual felling, processing and almost the same scores for log chokering. These were soft models with elastic elements, which significantly minimized back (spinal) loads while bending (Table 4). Low scores were recorded for skidding and forwarding because rigid or protruding elements interfere with machine cabins and ergonomic seats where trunk flexion is rarely required (Table 4). For arborist operations, upper-limb support models are highly applicable on mobile platforms, but the danger of entanglement with tree branches and other equipment limits their applicability in tasks requiring climbing ropes and harnesses (Table 4). Based on these findings, passive systems under 3 kg have been identified as the most promising option for forestry due to mechanical simplicity, soft or hybrid interfaces and reliability in extreme working conditions. Methodologically, this study is limited by a relatively small sample size and potential subjectivity during scoring and weighting phases. For coherent follow-up and further development of these findings, future research will expand market analysis, implement objective field tests (EMG and kinematic measurements) to standardize the evaluation process and incorporate multi-stakeholder feedback from the scientific community, field technologists and forestry production workers to ensure successful field integration.
Keywords
forestry; assistive and protective technologies; weighting method; occupational safety
Hrčak ID:
351708
URI
Publication date:
30.9.2026.
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