A Successful Solution for Boat Restoration: The S700 Active Shoulder Exoskeleton in Use at Wegener Yacht Yard

In boat restoration, working overhead is part of everyday life. At Wegener Yacht Shipyard in Wedel, this very challenge is being addressed with innovative technology: Our S700 active shoulder exoskeleton supports the team during key work steps and provides noticeable relief in their daily work. Drawing on the experiences of boatbuilder and Wegener Yacht Yard employee Jannes, we’ll show how using the S700 in boat restoration boosts efficiency while reducing physical strain.

Mastering Overhead Work Efficiently

The Wegener Yacht Shipyard specializes in the complete restoration of boats—from fiberglass and aluminum to classic wooden boats. Many of the tasks involved are performed overhead: sanding the hull, polishing surfaces, or carefully masking off areas before painting.

These tasks, in particular, present a special challenge: the arms must remain raised for extended periods, often while handling equipment weighing three to four kilograms and applying additional pressure. Without support, this quickly leads to fatigue.

That’s exactly where the S700 comes in: This active shoulder exoskeleton actively supports arm posture and significantly reduces the strain on muscles and shoulders. The result: more consistent work, less fatigue, and noticeably greater endurance during physically demanding tasks in shipbuilding.

A Noticeable Reduction in the Daily Workload

The S700 has been in use at the Wegener Yacht Shipyard for about half a year—with overwhelmingly positive feedback. Jannes clearly describes the difference: Whereas muscle soreness and exhaustion used to be the norm after a day’s work, the job is now much more comfortable thanks to the exoskeleton.

The advantage is particularly evident during longer grinding jobs: Instead of having to take regular breaks, the team can work productively for longer periods . This not only reduces physical strain but also increases project efficiency.

Another advantage is its customizable design: The level of support can be flexibly adjusted depending on the task. For static overhead work, a higher level of support is selected, while for dynamic tasks, greater freedom of movement is prioritized. After a brief adjustment period, users quickly find their optimal setting.

Greater productivity and better working conditions

In addition to simply reducing physical strain, the S700 also has a positive impact on work organization. By eliminating the need for rest breaks due to fatigue, work time can be used more effectively. At the same time, team satisfaction increases: Fewer physical complaints lead to a better atmosphere and, in the long run, to healthier working conditions.

At Wegener Yachtyard, the exoskeleton is used flexibly by the team—both by experienced specialists and by younger employees. It is particularly valuable for physically demanding tasks or for employees who need additional support.

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Initial skepticism within the team quickly gave way to acceptance: Setting up the system is straightforward, and the added value becomes apparent after just a short period of use. “The perceived productivity gains far outweigh the initial effort,” Jannes summarizes .

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