The U.S. Navy will be testing two FORTIS exoskeletons in its shipyards. This is the first time the exoskeleton will be getting industrial use.
Sometimes even the U.S. Navy’s brute strength needs a little help. Through the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences, a non-profit collaborative group focused on North American manufacturing and technology, the Navy is testing a pair of Lockheed Martin FORTIS exoskeletons for testing.
Lockheed Martin is well known giant in the aerospace, global security and information technology fields, and for the past five years they've been investing in exoskeleton research and development. .
The FORTIS exoskeleton is unpowered and lightweight, and meant to reduce human fatigue brought on by carrying and using heavy machinery.
The object’s weight is sent directly to the ground, increasing the wearer's strength and endurance.
While attached to the wearer, the exoskeleton bends with the body, allowing for easy movement and flexibility.
The exoskeleton remains flexible when used while standing or kneeling, regardless of the height or weight of its wearer.
Objects up to 36 pounds will feel weightless while carried, while the Equipois ZeroG arm will help reduce fatigue and greatly increase productivity.
