Comau MATE‑XB: Advanced Passive Exoskeleton for Lower Back Support

The Comau MATE‑XB Exoskeleton redefines ergonomic support in industrial settings with its innovative passive design that reduces strain on the lower back during lifting, bending, and repetitive manual tasks. Engineered by Comau, a global leader in industrial automation and wearable robotics, the MATE‑XB is a battery‑free, mechanically actuated exoskeleton that transforms human energy into assistive force, providing natural support without compromising mobility.

Ergonomic Support Without Batteries or Motors

Unlike powered exoskeletons that rely on batteries, actuators, or complex electronics, the MATE‑XB operates entirely through a passive mechanical system. At the heart of this system is the Torque Generating Box (TGB), a spring‑based mechanism that stores and releases the user’s own movement energy to create an assistive torque. This torque helps support the lower back muscles, particularly during forward bending and lifting motions, while still allowing a full range of motion.

This passive approach provides several compelling advantages:

• No power source required: Endless operational duration without charging or maintenance.

• No electrical complexity: Fewer points of failure, reduced downtime, and lower total cost of ownership.

• Natural movement synergy: The device works with the user’s own motion, supporting rather than restricting them.

Whether workers are lifting pallets, loading boxes, stacking materials, or performing repetitive handling tasks, the MATE‑XB helps reduce the physical load on the lumbar region — one of the most injury‑prone areas during manual material handling.

Designed for Real Work Environments

The MATE‑XB was developed with real users in real industrial environments. Its design was collaboratively validated with Esselunga, a major European retailer, where it was tested under demanding day‑to‑day conditions to ensure it delivers meaningful ergonomic support.

Key physical attributes include:

• Lightweight construction: Built with a carbon fiber frame, the MATE‑XB is easy to wear for extended periods without causing user fatigue.

• Compact and non‑intrusive: Its slim profile stays out of the way, even when working in tight spaces.

• Breathable, bio‑compatible materials: All parts in contact with the body are designed to be comfortable and to distribute supportive forces evenly, minimizing pressure points.

• Five levels of adjustable support: Users can tune the assistance level based on task intensity, physical ability, or personal preference.

• Unhindered mobility: The passive kinematic chain ensures full freedom of movement, so workers can walk, squat, twist, and bend as needed without restriction.

Optimized for Ergonomics and Safety

The MATE‑XB’s ergonomic design goes beyond comfort. It contributes to enhanced workplace safety and injury prevention. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), particularly those affecting the lower back, are among the leading causes of workplace absenteeism worldwide. By reducing the biomechanical stress associated with repetitive bending and lifting, the MATE‑XB helps minimize the risk of such injuries.

Moreover, this exoskeleton has achieved Category II Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) certification under EU Regulation 2016/425, affirming that it meets recognized safety and protective equipment standards. This certification allows companies — especially in Europe, to formally include the MATE‑XB in occupational safety programs and risk assessment procedures.

Easy to Wear, Easy to Use

One of the most compelling aspects of the MATE‑XB is its simplicity. The exoskeleton is intuitive to put on and take off, requiring minimal training. Its adjustable belt and ergonomic vest system enable a secure fit across a wide range of body types and sizes.

From warehouse operators to construction crews, logistics workers, and fulfillment center employees, people who perform physically demanding tasks can quickly adopt the MATE‑XB without interrupting workflows or requiring specialized technical support.

Applications Across Industries

The MATE‑XB exoskeleton is versatile, suited for a variety of industrial and non‑industrial contexts. Typical use cases include:

• Warehousing and logistics: Reducing back strain during pallet handling, order picking, and repetitive lifting.

• Manufacturing and assembly: Supporting operators in tasks that require frequent bending or crouching.

• Construction and outdoor work: Rugged design materials make it suitable for outdoor environments, even in conditions where dust, water, or corrosion might be present.

• Retail and supply chain operations: Reducing fatigue and improving consistency across repetitive handling jobs.

Its lightweight and robust design ensures it performs well not only indoors but also in outdoor and demanding environments.

Boosting Productivity and Worker Well‑Being

By lowering the physical effort required for manual material handling, the MATE‑XB has positive knock‑on effects on productivity and worker satisfaction. Workers using the exoskeleton experience less fatigue over the course of a shift, enabling them to maintain performance levels and reduce error rates. Enhanced comfort and reduced injury risk also contribute to better morale and lower turnover.

Employers benefit not only from ergonomic improvements but also from reduced downtime, lower workers’ compensation claims, and stronger compliance with occupational safety regulations, especially when integrated into comprehensive workplace safety programs.

Why Choose Comau and the MATE Family

Comau’s MATE series of wearable robotics reflects a broader commitment to human‑centric automation, blending advanced mechanical engineering with thoughtful design that prioritizes worker health and performance. The MATE‑XB complements other solutions in the portfolio by specifically targeting lumbar support, while other variants focus on upper‑body assistance and digital analytics.

Whether your goal is to enhance ergonomic standards, improve operational efficiency, or position your workplace as a leader in forward‑thinking safety practices, the MATE‑XB exoskeleton offers a proven, practical solution that delivers measurable benefits.