Researchers (Principal Investigators: Drs Jay Kim and Woodam Chung) from Oregon State University (OSU) are seeking participants in a study evaluating the utilization of exoskeletons in reducing musculoskeletal disorders in manual timber felling in the forest industry.

The purpose of this research study is to characterize physical risk factors associated with manual tree felling tasks and evaluate the efficacy of commercially available exoskeletons in reducing physical risk factors.

What to expect

• You will be asked to perform a series of simulated manual tree-felling tasks in a laboratory setting. Each task will last ~5 minutes with frequent breaks. The experiment session will last up to ~4 hours in total.
• You will be paid for being in this research study at a rate of $20/hour. If you complete the 4-hour session, your compensation will be approximately $80.
• Demographic (age, gender, and race) and anthropometric information (height, weight, arm length, shoulder height, elbow height, waist height, knuckle height, grip strength) will be collected.
• During the experiment, we will measure body postures using a 3-D optical motion capture system, muscle activity (electromyography), and subjective rating of exertion. Self-reported discomfort, preference, and usability ratings will be collected before and after each task. All of these measurements are non-invasive and have been extensively used in our laboratory.

To be eligible, you should

• Be an adult male (age of 21 years or older);
• Have neither current pain (in last 7 days) nor a history of musculoskeletal disorders in the upper extremities and low back regions;
• Have NO current medication related to musculoskeletal disorders;
• Have NO restrictions on physical activity

Taking part in this study is voluntary. If you are interested in participating in the study or have any questions about this study, please contact the Occupational Ergonomics and Biomechanics Laboratory via:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 541-737-3640

Thank you,

Occupational Ergonomics and Biomechanics (OEB) Lab