Frequently asked questions & answers

Yes. Users clearly report that they can feel their muscles working even while wearing the exoskeleton, and that the muscles being supported remain engaged even after prolonged use of the exoskeleton. This shows that the muscles remain actively engaged and do not become inactive.

Generally speaking, no. Different types of exoskeletons provide varying degrees of assistance, but even active systems do not reduce muscle activity to a level that could cause muscle atrophy. The key factor is freedom of movement—and this is preserved with exoIQ exoskeletons.

Braces severely restrict movement in order to immobilize joints. exoIQ exoskeletons, on the other hand, allow for maximum mobility and provide support only where there is a risk of overexertion. They deliberately reduce muscle activity only moderately—by about 20–30% on average. This is sufficient to relieve strain but does not lead to muscle atrophy.

This concern stems from experiences with orthoses. Orthoses often immobilize joints for weeks or months—and that is precisely what leads to muscle atrophy in those areas. Exoskeletons, however, are not comparable, as they do not restrict movement but rather support it, and are worn only temporarily.

The theoretical concern is that if muscles have to work less, they might lose their strength over time. In practice, however, this concern does not hold true in the context of exoskeletons:

Exoskeletons do not relieve users of the entire load, but rather of excessive strain. The muscles remain active enough to maintain their performance. Furthermore, exoskeletons are used only as needed and are not worn continuously like orthoses. Instead of immobilizing the body, they allow healthy movements to continue without excessive strain.

Muscle loss is therefore very unlikely.

Maintenance includes a functional test, software update, and replacement of wear parts. You can register for maintenance on our service page.

We recommend sending the S700 active shoulder exoskeleton in for maintenance once a year, as components of the pneumatic system need to be checked and wear parts replaced. Maintenance of the B900 active back exoskeleton is also highly recommended if it is used frequently.

Textiles are removable and machine washable at 30°C in the wash bag provided. Motorized, fixed components can be wiped clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

Yes, our exoskeletons can be individually adjusted to body heights of 1.60–2.00 m, individual strength requirements, and work demands. This means they can be used by both women and men.

Yes, our exoskeletons are designed to be worn over normal work clothes.

The user. The exoskeleton supports the user's movements. The user must carry out the movement himself. The force of the exoskeleton is always less than the muscle strength of the user. This means that the user always retains control. 

According to the German Social Accident Insurance: "Employers are also obliged to carry out a risk assessment. As a result, protective measures including instructions must be derived and implemented. In particular, the protection goals and requirements of the Ordinance on Industrial Safety and Health (Betriebssicherheitsverordnung) and, if applicable, the Ordinance on Safety and Health in the Use of Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Verordnung über Sicherheit und Gesundheitsschutz bei der Benutzung persönlicher Schutzausrüstungen bei der Arbeit) must be taken into account.

You can find a sample risk assessment here: Risk assessment for exoskeletons version 1.1 - draft (dguv.de)

The support force is provided by springs or elastic bands. This must be built up by the user during the opposite movement - e.g. lowering the arms after lifting. This leads to a balancing of the effort between lifting and lowering, but not to a fundamental relief.

An active system has its own power source, which allows fine-tuning of the assistance power via a control interface. In addition, it is possible to set when the power should kick in and when no assistance is needed.

Exoskeletons are body-worn assistance systems. They differ in terms of drive principle and design, but always fulfil the same purpose: to relieve the user during prolonged physical strain - especially in forced postures.

For all activities performed with an exoskeleton, it is crucial that the assistive force kicks in at the right time and to the right extent. Presets are presettings of these parameters that can be transferred to the S700 to ensure optimal adaptation to the work task.

Intelligent control and adjustable actuators weigh more than passive systems. As with a load backpack, this additional weight is transferred to the hip belt and supported by the strong leg muscles. In contrast to passive, mechanical aids, the S700 not only stores energy, but also provides the user with additional strength in the arms.

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Our musculature needs a healthy level of load. The supportive force of the exoskeleton can be directed in such a way that it preserves positive training effects for the musculature while minimising negative effects on the joint apparatus. 

No, on the contrary. Since the exoskeleton only removes the permanent overload, the muscles remain actively used and trained.

The exoskeleton can be used with most commercially available, hand-held tools such as drills, grinders or suction cups. As its support force interferes with the movement sequence, it is not recommended for use with safety-critical operations such as open electrical cables or cutting blades. 

The advanced joint chain and flexible back suspension allow maximum freedom of movement with controlled support. This also applies to secondary activities such as tying shoes or reaching into trouser pockets.

On the contrary, short-term effects have already been proven to be positive and this is also expected for long-term studies. However, such studies are not yet available for this modern technology. In any case, the exoskeleton must be ergonomically correctly adapted for the user in order to unfold its positive effect.

No. And that is not the goal either. The exoskeleton is intended to move the same loads and perform the same work activities as before. The support provided by the exoskeleton only prevents overloading and thus complaints in the muscle-joint apparatus. 

If one of our products does not work as expected, please contact our customer service: service@exoiq.com. We will respond to email inquiries within two working days.

No, since the active exoskeleton generates electromagnetic fields and could interfere with the pacemaker, its use is not recommended.

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No, the S700 is not suitable for use in hazardous areas and does not have ATEX or IECEx certification.

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For a more natural, organic feeling: air pressure has a less static effect on the user than an electric motor. In addition, with pneumatics as the drive, the actuators are much more compact and lighter.

The S700 shoulder exoskeleton has been available since October 2024. A demonstration at your premises is possible at any time. Please contact our sales department to arrange an appointment.

The exoIQ exoskeleton has been proven to reduce the muscle activity required when working at and above head height. This significantly relieves the shoulder and neck muscles and prevents discomfort, especially during long periods of work.

The S700 can be used with most commercially available hand-held tools such as screwdrivers, riveting hammers, grinders or suction cups. As it interferes with the motion sequence with its assist force, its use is not recommended for safety-critical handling such as with open electrical cables or cutting blades. A combination with personal protective equipment must be checked in each individual case. Respirators with a filter unit as a belt at waist level are usually good to use.

The innovative link chain and flexible back suspension allow maximum freedom of movement with controlled support at the same time. And for reaching into your trouser pocket or other secondary activities, the power supply can be interrupted at any time with the pause button, so that the S700 does not become a disruptive factor.

The S700 generates the additional force by means of pneumatics. This is generated by an integrated mini compressor.

Potentially yes. Overstrained shoulder and neck muscles can affect the back - also because unergonomic compensatory movements often occur. These strain the lower back in particular. This negative interaction can be avoided with the exoskeleton. 

No. For large orders, color selection is negotiable upon request.

The B900 active back exoskeleton is classified as a tool that actively helps to reduce strain during physically demanding activities. Exoskeletons are not considered personal protective equipment. Exoskeletons from exoIQ are not medical devices.

Textiles can be changed by the user. Other wear parts should be replaced by exoIQ as needed. An annual service package is available for purchase, which can be very useful in cases of heavy use.

No, the materials are antistatic.

Yes, the B900 is designed for a temperature range of -14 °F to 104 °F.

No, since the active exoskeleton generates electromagnetic fields and could interfere with the pacemaker, its use is not recommended.

No, the B900 is not suitable for use in hazardous areas and does not have ATEX or IECEx certification.

The B900 can be used outdoors in dry conditions. The materials used in the B900 are resistant to UV radiation. As an active exoskeleton, it is primarily designed for indoor use and can withstand typical dust exposure or higher humidity levels in industrial environments, for example. The B900 is not protected against water ingress (e.g., rain) and should not be used in these circumstances.

Very robust. It is suitable for industrial environments.

Yes, putting it on and taking it off is easy and can be done in under 30 seconds. Our instructions and quick guide will help you to perform the few simple steps quickly and correctly. There is no stand device, nor is one required.

The B900 allows for easy operation of pedestrian-controlled industrial trucks that are pushed or pulled (e.g., electric pallet trucks). Industrial trucks with a driver's seat can be used with the B900, depending on the size of the driver's seat. This should be tested in advance as part of a risk assessment. As a rule, the B900 should not be used in combination with industrial trucks with a driver's seat.

Less than 30 minutes.

In principle, yes. However, for safety reasons, we always recommend replacing the battery when the device is switched off.

The runtime with a 3.0 Ah battery is up to 6 hours and depends on the work dynamics.

No, the exoskeleton serves to relieve strain, not to increase strength.

The exoskeleton can carry loads of up to 30 kilograms.

Yes, the exoskeleton offers full freedom of movement thanks to a patented mechanism in the back and a free-running mode for effortless walking. The design allows for natural movements such as bending over, turning, and climbing stairs.

Yes, the B900 leaves your arms and hands completely free. This means that the B900 is compatible with most common hand-held tools such as screwdrivers or grinders. However, we recommend exercising particular caution when performing safety-critical work, such as working with exposed electrical cables or cutting tools. The combination with personal protective equipment should be checked on a case-by-case basis. Respirators with filter units on the belt can usually be used without any problems.

Yes, the B900 relieves strain on the lumbar spine and surrounding muscles when lifting and carrying heavy loads and when leaning forward in a static position. It enables healthier working without overexertion and helps prevent discomfort.

On-site testing and pre-orders are already possible today. Delivery is planned for July 2026. Please feel free to contact our sales department.

The electric motors enable greater support force, which means that the relief for the lower back is more effective than with purely passive systems, especially during strenuous activities. In addition, the active force assistance can be more easily adapted to different work tasks.

The B100 specifically targets the muscles in the core and lower back. This is made possible by the gentle, even compression provided by the integrated straps. These apply light pressure to the muscles from the outside, thereby providing a natural stimulus to the skin and muscles.

This stimulation activates the body’s own sensory receptors (mechanoreceptors), which help to better regulate muscle tension. During movement, the B100 thus supports the harmonious interplay of muscle contraction and relaxation while simultaneously promoting a better sense of body awareness and joint mobility.

In addition, the B100 features an anatomically shaped, flexible support structure in the lumbar region. This conforms to the natural curve of the lower back, promotes proper posture, and provides additional relief for the back muscles—especially during prolonged standing or repetitive strain.

The mechanism of action is similar to the effects seen with kinesiology tape in sports and rehabilitation: rather than immobilizing the muscles, it provides targeted support. In this way, the B100 helps alleviate strain in the lower lumbar spine and can help prevent muscle tension—without restricting freedom of movement.

The B100 must be hand-washed using standard mild detergents. Do not bleach, do not tumble dry, do not iron, and do not dry clean.

Yes. The B100 is designed for regular use in everyday work. The lightweight materials used ensure high comfort even during extended use. It is a versatile companion for virtually any indoor or outdoor scenario.

The B100 is available in sizes S, M, and L. It is suitable for the following waist sizes:

• S: 65–85 cm
• M: 85–100 cm
• L: 100–120 cm

Yes, this is generally possible without any issues. The B100 can be worn with standard personal protective equipment. It can also be worn in combination with other exoIQ exoskeletons, such as the S700 shoulder exoskeleton.

The B100 is not a rigid medical device, but a soft and flexible support system designed for everyday work. Unlike rigid orthoses, it does not restrict movement; instead, it aims to improve posture and body awareness and support active, ergonomic movements.

The B100 supports core stability in the lower back and has a positive effect on body awareness and muscle control. Unlike the B900 active back exoskeleton from exoIQ, it does not directly reduce compression of the intervertebral discs during lifting activities.

Depending on the cause of the pain, wearing the B100 may help reduce pain. In studies, participants have reported a reduction in back pain when using similar products. However, pain relief is not a guaranteed outcome. If you experience persistent back pain, we recommend consulting a doctor.

Based on current scientific knowledge, there is no evidence that using the B100 leads to a loss of core muscle mass. Comparable studies on soft lumbar belts show no negative effect on muscle activity or muscle mass, either in the short term or after several months of use. “Disuse atrophy,” a term frequently cited in connection with orthoses, is primarily associated with rigid systems that severely restrict movement, but not with flexible, soft solutions such as the B100.

In general, the B100 can be worn over thicker clothing such as sweaters. However, this can increase the risk of wrinkling and uneven compression, which is why we recommend wearing the B100 directly over your base layer.

The B100 should be worn over the innermost layer of clothing. We recommend wearing close-fitting clothing to minimize potential wrinkling. We do not recommend wearing it directly against the skin.

How tightly the B100 fits varies from person to person. The important thing is that it feels comfortable. The B100 should be worn in such a way that it does not restrict breathing into the abdomen, even when it is securely fastened.

The firm center section of the B100 should be positioned directly over the spine. It has a slight curve in the lower back area. The B100 ends just above the buttocks, where it rests comfortably.

The B100 can be quickly put on and adjusted to fit thanks to an intuitive drawstring system with Velcro fasteners. This makes the B100 flexible and adaptable to different body types.

Yes. The B100 can be worn under work clothes and is virtually invisible.

No. Thanks to its flexible, textile construction, the B100 does not restrict the torso’s range of motion. It is designed to allow for natural movement and ensure a high level of comfort even during dynamic activities.

You can wear the B100 for as long as it feels comfortable. For optimal comfort, we recommend wearing smooth clothing underneath. If necessary, minor adjustments can ensure a more comfortable fit.

It is recommended that you gradually increase the amount of time you wear it, starting with about 30 minutes. There is no set maximum wearing time. How long you can wear the B100 depends on how you feel. Ideally, you should use the back support during activities that strain your back—preferably before your back muscles become fatigued.

In general, there are few restrictions on wearing the B100. However, people with lymphatic swelling should not use this product. Those suffering from acute or chronic back pain or pre-existing conditions should get used to wearing it gradually. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a doctor beforehand.

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The B100 can be worn by both women and men. It is suitable for waist sizes ranging from 65 to 120 cm.

The B100 is suitable for all activities that put strain on the back—such as working while bent forward, standing, kneeling, or sitting. It also provides reliable support when lifting and carrying. The soft back support can be used during both dynamic and static work tasks.

All recordings are saved locally on your own end device. The data is only recorded if the user has actively consented to Bluetooth pairing with the S700.

The exoIQ app is free and can be downloaded from the Apple App Store and Google Play.

The exoIQ app allows you to record and document your work with the exoskeleton. The automatically generated report shows exactly the movements of the user and the support provided by the S700. This makes ergonomic workplace analysis much easier.

The ergonomic evaluation was created by biomechanics and sports scientists with doctorates and uses, among other things, the ergonomic specifications and evaluation criteria of the DGUV. Source‍

Of course. The video workplace analysis does not require an exoskeleton but only the camera of the smartphone or tablet.