Festool develops products that closely match the requirements of construction professionals, leading to striking innovations. The new Festool ExoActive is the perfect example of this. This exoskeleton actively supports the user during strenuous overhead work in drywall construction or when painting, wallpapering, or assembling walls or ceilings.

What is an Exoskeleton?

An exoskeleton or external skeleton is a covering for the protection of an organism’s body. An exoskeleton is found in insects and molluscs, among others. Humans also use an exoskeleton for different purposes. Medieval armor was in fact an exoskeleton for protection.

Modern exoskeletons are emerging in healthcare as a ‘robotic suit’ for people who have to learn to walk again due to spinal cord injury or cerebral haemorrhage. The suit contains electric motors that are controlled by a computer. The exoskeleton is programmed in such a way that it can optimally follow the movements that the user wants to make, without the need for a keyboard or joystick.

Exoskeletons in construction

Yet another application is in work situations that involve a high physical load, especially in construction. The construction sector is constantly innovating in solutions that make work more efficient, safer and less physically demanding. One of the most interesting innovations in this field is the exoskeleton for construction workers.

Exoskeletons for construction workers are designed to support the body in an ergonomically correct position. They reduce stress on joints and muscles, reducing the risk of injury. With an exoskeleton, a construction worker can also work longer and more efficiently without getting tired, and do more work in less time. Resulting in higher productivity. The Festool ExoActive is the undisputed leader in the advancement of exoskeletons in construction.

How does the Festool ExoActive work?

The Festool ExoActive is an active support system. Unlike passive systems, which use the user’s energy, the Festool ExoActive has an external drive. The power source is an 18-volt battery pack that drives a compressor. When working overhead, that extra force is transferred to the user’s arms via compressed air cylinders. The support power is controlled via sensors attached to the arm joints of the exoskeleton.

The advantages at a glance

  • The Festool ExoActive gives extra strength and support for difficult overhead work on the construction site and relieves the shoulders and neck.
  • The exoskeleton provides the targeted force. The active system can be set to the job at hand with the remote control in no time at all. From the hip, at chest height, or above the head: the place where support is needed and the strength level are easy to regulate.
  • The Festool ExoActive is as easy to put on as a backpack and is ergonomically adapted to different body types. In addition, the exoskeleton can be adjusted to different body sizes.

Technical data of the Festool ExoActive

  • Battery voltage 18 V
  • Support force 50 N per forearm
  • Active support for three positions: from the pelvis up, from the chest up, above the head
  • Power levels 5
  • Product weight without accessories 7.0 kg