Less back strain, more freedom: The new forward bend exoskeleton supports ergonomically correct postures without compromise.
with intuitive operation
up to 30%
for a wide range of applications
Working for long periods in a bent-over position puts strain on the back and muscles. What seems easy at first becomes a challenge over time. That’s exactly where the passive forward bend exoskeleton NEXO Pro comes in: It reduces muscle strain, speeds up recovery, and maintains performance throughout the entire shift.
Whether in crafts or in logistics, the exoskeleton provides targeted relief for the back and shoulders, reduces fatigue, and helps you get through your workday in a healthy way.
Less back strain, more power: Discover how exoskeletons make an impact at every level.
In addition to the forward bend exoskeleton, which provides targeted relief for the lower back during lifting tasks, we also offer ergonomically supportive assistance for manual tasks performed at chest height and overhead.
 |  |
Forward Bend Exoskeletons NEXO Pro | Upper Body Exoskeletons MATE UTB |
| Application | Application |
| Lifting tasks performed while crouching or bent over | Activities at and above chest height |
| Support | Support |
| up to 30% | up to 5.5 kg per arm |
| Weight | Weight |
| about 5 kg | about 3 kg |
| Size (Height x Width x Depth) | Size (Height x Width x Depth) |
| Size R4/T4: 993 x 513 x 413 mm | Size R3/T3: 934 x 513 x 405 mm | 570 x 520 x 200 mm |
Explore product | Explore product |
The new forward bend exoskeleton sets new standards in haptics, ergonomics, and customization.
A rigid forward bend exoskeleton mechanically redirects the force of the upper body’s own weight – without motor assistance – past the spine to the hips and thighs when the user bends over.
Three-step process:
Result: The system takes over up to 30 % of the muscle activity required for bending and lifting; the spine is not subjected to additional compression.
The forward bend exoskeleton provides support during static and dynamic activities performed in a crouched or bent-over position. The exoskeleton assists with dynamic movements (e.g., order picking) through active motion control – it “pulls” when standing up with a load and “brakes” when setting it down – thereby relieving strain on the back muscles during repetitive lifting and setting-down motions. In static postures (e.g., laying tiles, mounting), on the other hand, it acts as a counterforce that continuously compensates for the upper body’s weight and reduces muscle tension in the forced bent posture over extended periods.
The forward bend exoskeleton is used for loading and unloading machines, order picking, and the manual mounting of heavy or large components in stooped or forward-leaning postures in the fields of logistics, wood working, and metalworking. The forward bend exoskeleton NEXO Pro can generally be used wherever such movement patterns are observed.
A passive forward bend exoskeleton is designed for all-day use throughout an entire work shift without any battery limitations.
Since passive systems operate purely mechanically, there is no runtime limitation imposed by a power source. Comfort and individual adaptation are the key factors. A gradual adaptation period of 2–4 weeks is recommended.
The forward bend exoskeleton NEXO Pro from Schmalz is made of breathable, washable materials and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. In addition, it can be quickly put on and taken off, so it can be easily removed during breaks or when performing activities that do not involve lifting, and then quickly put back on afterward. This supports prolonged, comfortable wear.
A forward bend exoskeleton primarily relieves stress on the lumbar spine (L4/L5 segment), the erector spinae muscles, and the intervertebral discs during movements or postures in which the upper body is bent forward.
No additional strain is placed on the ligamentous structures, as the rigid system does not exert any compressive forces on the spine. Reduced muscle fatigue also leads to less overall exhaustion of the back muscles over the course of a work shift.
The forward bend exoskeleton NEXO Pro is available in two sizes. The instruction manual includes specific recommendations for selecting the appropriate size.
Both sizes cover the vast majority of the working population. The level of assistance and the timing of activation can be adjusted individually, allowing the forward bend exoskeleton NEXO Pro to be adapted to different body types and activities. An individual adjustment period of 2-4 weeks is recommended.
Thanks to the washable, breathable fabric components, the items can be reused by multiple employees.
Yes, all straps and controls are easily accessible and can be adjusted on your own. Learn everything you need to know about putting on and adjusting the forward bend exoskeleton here.
