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Festool is expanding the functionality of its active exoskeleton, the ExoActive EXO18, using the Work App. Launched in 2023, the ExoActive makes light work of strenuous overhead tasks, giving the user an extra boost of strength before arms get tired, as well as removing load from the neck. As test results show, users are impressed with Festool’s new helper, which is further evidenced by a recent iF Design Award win.

The Festool Work App is delivering optimum functional extras for everyday work with the ExoActive, but what exactly does it do and how is support provided?

“The ExoActive reduces load on users’ front shoulder muscles, which would otherwise feel the burn all day. This allows arms to be extended for longer periods, thus reducing time pressure and stress levels when setting the screw connection or producing a more even spray pattern,” comments Karl Preiser, a German test customer for the 2023 ExoActive test study.

The ExoActive is an active exoskeleton that’s powered by an 18V battery. A revolution for the building trade – whether dry mortarless construction or painting, sanding, installation, on both walls or ceilings – the ExoActive actively lends a helping hand, by providing support during overhead work, when using power tools, traditional hand tools or even bare hands. Consequently, with body stress reduced, users can work without fatigue, allowing greater focus on work quality, which ultimately results in increased effectiveness and job enjoyment.

New additional functions with the Work App

With the free Festool Work App – available for Android and iOS – the ExoActive will, in future, be even more customisable in order to suit specific applications and requirements – all via the smartphone touch-screen for added convenience. For example, the app can be used to show step-by-step instructions detailing how to adjust the ExoActive to suit a user’s body size.

The app also makes it easier to set the appropriate working mode – in either Flex or Fix mode. Fix mode provides support in a fixed position of around 100° in front of the body – for example, during longer installation work in one place, and in Flex mode, the position can be selected with complete freedom. Both modes are suitable for static work in the same position. For asymmetrical work, the ExoActive offers support on one side for either the right or left arm – for example, when using a cordless drill.

With the app, the ExoActive can be easily adjusted to suit the work situation in question. But that’s not all – it also displays charge status, calls up operating data such as the level of support, as well as providing access to software updates and tutorials on how to use the ExoActive most effectively.

Results from the customer testing study

“To find out exactly how our new exoskeleton will be used in practice, we conducted an international test study in seven European countries between May and October 2023,” explains Dominic Ender, Product Manager at Festool. “This gave around 300 test customers the opportunity to put the ExoActive through its paces on construction sites. The results were very positive all round, showing great enthusiasm for the active support, especially in the case of overhead work.” The final results indicated the following:

• 79% felt less physically exhausted;

• 74% felt their workload had been eased;

• 71% needed fewer breaks;

• 72% gave positive feedback on the operation/adjustments during work;

• 70% gave positive feedback about the adjustments to their body shape;

• 56% stated a higher quality of life.

Integrated into the Festool 18V systemThe ExoActive is supplied along with all accessories in robust packaging that, in addition to protecting the product, also functions as a raised storage area. Powered by an 18V battery, the ExoActive exoskeleton is also compatible with the entire Festool 18 Volt System. For further information, see the website: www.festool.co.uk.