Ford reveals 'Iron Man' exoskeletons used by workers

Robots have replaced many U.S. manufacturing workers, but new mechanical exoskeletons being tested by Ford may help factory workers to function like bionic people, reducing the physical damage of millions of repetitive tasks over many years. The U.S. automaker said on Thursday that workers at two U.S. factories are testing upper-body exoskeletons developed by Richmond, California-based Ekso Bionics Holdings Inc, which are designed to reduce injuries and increase productivity. The four EksoVests were paid for by the United Auto Workers union, which represents hourly workers at Ford, and the automaker plans tests for the exoskeleton in other regions including Europe and South America. Robots have replaced many U.S. manufacturing workers, but new mechanical exoskeletons being tested by Ford Motor Co may help factory workers to function like bionic people, reducing the physical damage of millions of repetitive tasks over many years Construction workers could soon have a taste of a superhero's strength, thanks to a robotic vest that is designed to prevent injuries on building sites. The EksoVest is an upper body exoskeleton, the firm explains.