Smart Wearables in Ergonomic Applications: Recent Advances and Challenges in Human-Machine Integration.

Abstract

Smart wearables have become increasingly integral to ergonomic applications, particularly in healthcare, industrial work, and rehabilitation. These technologies offer significant benefits in enhancing human performance, reducing the risk of injury, and improving user comfort. Exoskeletons, one of the key smart wearable technologies, have seen widespread adoption in industrial settings, assisting workers in physically demanding tasks by alleviating muscle strain and promoting ergonomic posture. The application of machine learning within these wearables further enhances their adaptability, allowing for personalized support based on real-time feedback. In healthcare, wearable sensors provide critical insights into physiological and postural data, enabling continuous monitoring that supports long-term health and rehabilitation efforts. These wearables can track muscle activity, heart rate, and other vital signs, improving patient outcomes through ergonomic design that minimizes discomfort. In addition, soft robotic suits and passive exoskeletons have been developed to assist in mobility rehabilitation, offering a blend of comfort and functionality. Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Smart wearables must balance functionality with comfort, especially as many devices can be bulky or restrictive. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning offers solutions to some of these challenges, enabling wearables to adapt dynamically to user needs. However, technical issues such as data processing, sensor accuracy, and battery life continue to limit their widespread adoption. Future developments must focus on miniaturization, energy efficiency, and user adaptability to overcome these barriers, ensuring that smart wearables are both effective and practical for diverse ergonomic applications.

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