Creative exoskeleton presentation: The story behind our wooden stick figure

How do you present an exoskeleton in a creative, modern way that is highly recognizable? For exoIQ, the answer was clear: we wanted to create a presentation object that was "simply different" – visually striking, high-quality craftsmanship, and flexible for use at trade fairs and events. Together with Shaper, also a company of the TTS-Festool Group, and woodworking expert and content creator Paul Robben, we were able to successfully implement this project: the result is our "Strichmann."

From idea to collaboration

Instead of a classic mannequin, we wanted to create a display object that would impress with its modern look and exoIQ recognition value. Shortly after coming up with the idea of creating a new display object, we sought out Shaper. Our partner from the TTS-Festool Group put us in touch with Paul Robben, one of their creators.

Paul Robben is known for his precise craftsmanship, creative woodworking projects, and his modern approach to digital tools. On his social media channels, he shows how traditional craftsmanship and smart machines can be combined to create extraordinary projects under the name "nerdytimber." We were impressed by his extensive expertise, which he gained as a master carpenter and now passes on as a vocational school teacher.

From sketch to "stick figure"

After agreeing on the requirements and testing our exoskeletons, Paul was able to freely express himself in his element and, in just a short time, created a unique and sophisticated wooden work of art for us. Paul developed two designs, and together we finally decided on a minimalist "stick figure" that optimally focuses attention on the exoskeleton while also making our brand visible. In just a few days, Paul transformed the idea into a real object.

Design and craftsmanship in perfection

The finished "stick figure" is made of sturdy ash wood, has movable arms and hips, and features a three-dimensional chest with an integrated exoIQ logo. During production, traditional craftsmanship—using tools such as chisels and planes—was combined with modern machines from Shaper, which enabled the precise joint connections. This combination of analog craftsmanship and digital manufacturing is typical of Paul Robben—and an important element of his work as a creator on social media, where he regularly shares innovative woodworking projects with his numerous followers.

The minimalist wooden "stick figure" stands out from typical mannequins, while the integrated exoIQ logo ensures the desired recognition. The "stick figure" is the size of a real person and can be used to optimally present both our active shoulder exoskeleton S700 and our active back exoskeleton B900.

We would like to thank Paul Robben and Shaper for the inspiring collaboration and the outstanding result!

‍