Yesterday, the board of directors of ASTM International, one of the world’s leading standards developers, approved the formation of an exoskeletons and exosuits committee (designated F48).
Leaders from dozens of companies, associations, government agencies, and other organizations helped organize the new group on Sept. 14. These stakeholders saw a need for standardization that supports innovation in exoskeletons and exosuits, including applications that help patients, workers, the military, first responders, and others.
“This committee will help meet a need for new standards in a dynamic and exciting industry,” said Katharine Morgan, ASTM International president. “With decades of experience developing standards in industries such as medical devices, security, and textiles, ASTM International and our members are uniquely positioned to help this new industry reach its full potential.”
According to organizers, the committee’s initial focus will be on standards development in five technical areas (which will be subcommittees):
- Design and manufacturing,
- Human factors and ergonomics,
- Task performance and environmental considerations,
- Maintenance and disposal, and
- Security and information technology.
The growth of the new committee – including participants such as EksoWorks and Rise Robotics – are featured in this new Standardization News article.
To learn more about the ASTM International process, visit www.astm.org/ABOUT/full_overview. To join, go to www.astm.org/JOIN.
Media Inquiries: Dan Bergels, tel +1.610.832.9602; dbergels@astm.org
Committee Contact: Pat Picariello, tel +1.610.832.9720; ppicariello@astm.org
Release #10414