Data from the article Exoskeleton for upper limbs in meat processing industry influence on muscle activity and physical effort

Exoskeleton for upper limbs in meat processing industry: influence on muscle activity and physical effort Abstract. Background: Brazil is one of the world's leading pork exporters, with approximately 1,100 slaughterhouses. Manual labor in these facilities involves repetitive strain and improper postures, impacting workers' health. Objective: This article aims to analyze the effectiveness of the exoskeleton in reducing physical effort in the upper limbs during repetitive dynamic activities in meat processing production lines, considering its usability. Method: The research combined physiological and subjective data, including EMG measurements of muscle activation, the BORG questionnaire for perceived physical effort, and an exoskeleton usability questionnaire. Data were collected using the Miotool-400® electromyograph, with four channels and surface sensors, and disposable 3M electrodes (2223BRQ) were used for signal acquisition. Descriptive statistical analysis employed normalized adjusted means and normalized peak values to summarize the data. Results: Findings revealed that exoskeleton use reduced muscle activation in all analyzed muscles. Anterior Deltoid Left activation decreased from 92% to 76%, Medial Deltoid Left from 97% to 74%, Medial Deltoid Right from 97% to 85%, and Anterior Deltoid Right from 94% to 84%. Conclusion: The exoskeleton demonstrated potential to reduce muscle demand and fatigue, suggesting ergonomic and industrial benefits. However, limitations such as anthropometric adjustments and additional space requirements were identified. The study reinforces the device’s relevance and recommends further research on optimization and adaptation for industrial environments. Keywords: Exoskeleton, usability, physical effort, surface electromyography, ergonomics, shoulder injuries.