Exoskeletons grow up; make great strides of improvements

[Packard]

An interesting (to me) article about exoskeletons.
https://www.theverge.com/report/624...ll-ces-test-pro-x-skip-robotics-arcteryx-mogo

 

[mwolczko]

Interesting.  Coincidentally, I was wondering about the efficacy of the Festool product, as I’m embarking on a remodel with a lot of ceiling work.  As a DIYer, I would rather rent one instead of shelling out.  But I’ve totally failed at finding anyplace that rents them.   

Also, anyone reading this tried one?  Opinions?

 

[Packard]

I would caution that early-adopters frequently miss-out on the improvements that field trials bring about. 

It is still too early in the development of this class of equipment for it to be a fully developed technology. 

I predict that 10 years from now people will look back at the early exoskeletons and smile with amusement.

My take:  Though useful, it is not ready for prime time.  I foresee lots of improvements over the next few years that will make these devices almost “necessary”.  “How did you paint houses before exoskeletons, Grandpa?”

 

[mino]

...
My take:  Though useful, it is not ready for prime time.  I foresee lots of improvements over the next few years that will make these devices almost “necessary”.  “How did you paint houses before exoskeletons, Grandpa?”

Son, you see, we use that thing called a roller!
[cool]

Something like when one asks an old master mason "How did you make the walls straight and smooth without drywall,lasers , or even having a Planex around?" He looks first with amusement, then comments that you do not. "You use rough sand plaster so that the wall just blends including any minute imperfections. Only a greenhorn plaster a brick wall with gypsum plaster. Making a wall smooth so you are forced to make it completely flat is just idiocy."

Had that discussion .. and it is a valid point in the concrete/brick world. There gypsum is often a solution in search of a problem.

---
IMO we already see a split into "loosely-coupled" exoskeletons like the Festool Exo which serve mostly as supporting aids and do not try to integrate too-much with the limbs/body and the "tight-coupled" ones the review is about.

Loosely-coupled ones skirt the machine/body interface problem so are easier to solve. There are some mature products out that are very much usable on a daily basis.

The tightly-coupled ones will IMO eventually move in the "cyborg-y" direction, with surgically implanted attachment points. I can see actually MagLev-style magnetic implants not too far out. There is just no way to use something that actually enhances strength for prolonged periods without damaging the soft skin tissue where it attaches to the body. Do notice the journalist completely skirting that topic ..

 

[smorgasbord]

Interesting.  Coincidentally, I was wondering about the efficacy of the Festool product, as I’m embarking on a remodel with a lot of ceiling work.  As a DIYer, I would rather rent one instead of shelling out.  But I’ve totally failed at finding anyplace that rents them.   

Also, anyone reading this tried one?  Opinions?

Does Festool have their 30 day no-questions asked return policy in place for the Exoskeleton product? If so, you can try it out for a month risk-free.

 

[woodferret]

Interesting.  Coincidentally, I was wondering about the efficacy of the Festool product, as I’m embarking on a remodel with a lot of ceiling work.  As a DIYer, I would rather rent one instead of shelling out.  But I’ve totally failed at finding anyplace that rents them.   

Also, anyone reading this tried one?  Opinions?

There's a weight limit to it.  You're not going to be lifting drywall over your head.  This is more meant to minimize (not negate) the weight of the tool you're using on the ceiling.  It doesn't replace lifts.  I'd eyeball those first before this and only this if you're at risk of developing shoulder mobility issues.