Economic Efficiency of Using Passive Exoskeletons in Industrial Enterprises Within the Framework of the Transition to Total Robotization of Production and Reduction of the Human Factor

Purpose: The subject of this work is the study of the use of passive exoskeletons in industrial enterprises. The topic of the work is focused on the analysis of the role of passive exoskeletons as a transitional stage to full robotization of production processes. The purpose of the study is to assess the impact of the introduction of passive exoskeletons on labor productivity, worker safety and economic efficiency of enterprises. Methods: The research methodology includes the collection and analysis of technical data from public sources, as well as directly from internal reports of organizations, on productivity and safety at Russian and foreign enterprises where passive exoskeletons are already used. Results: Foreign experience shows that the use of exoskeletons can reduce the risk of musculoskeletal diseases by 45–58%, reduce the cost of disability compensation by 31-53% and increase labor productivity up to 153% for certain tasks. In Russia, the process of introducing exoskeletons is at an early stage, but there are already successful examples of their use at enterprises that have shown a 13% reduction in task completion time. An expert assessment of the effectiveness of the introduction of exoskeletons confirmed their high social and economic significance. Practical significance: The introduction of exoskeletons in industrial enterprises helps to reduce injuries, improve working conditions and increase productivity, which is especially important in the context of personnel shortages. The use of exoskeletons allows to reduce costs for disability compensation and increase the prestige of the company among potential employees. The article offers recommendations for Russian enterprises on the introduction of exoskeletons, which can contribute to the implementation of tasks set within the framework of national projects and increase the competitiveness of the domestic industry. The introduction of exoskeletons can be an important step towards full automation and robotization of processes. The conclusions emphasize that passive exoskeletons are an effective tool for increasing productivity and labor safety.