Urs Schneider, PhD

Scientific Director of Health, Fraunhofer IPA

Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Urs Schneider, Scientific Director of Health at Fraunhofer IPA, discusses his extensive experience in mechatronics engineering, particularly in the fields of exoskeletons, prosthetics, and orthotics. He emphasizes the importance of integrating medical rehabilitation devices with workplace applications, the innovative Exo Workathlon testing methodology, and the need for user-centric design in assistive devices. Dr. Schneider also highlights the challenges of non-compliance with medical devices and the necessity for industry collaboration to improve testing standards and methodologies.

Intro and outro music by the Flatbush Cowboys (a band that David Morgenroth played in from Brooklyn, NY).

Takeaways

• Dr. Schneider has over 20 years of experience in mechatronics engineering.

• Fraunhofer IPA plays a crucial role in the development and testing of wearable robotics.

• The Exo Workathlon is designed to test occupational exoskeletons effectively.

• User feedback is essential for the development of assistive devices.

• There is a significant need for user-centric design in medical devices.

• Non-compliance with medical devices leads to increased healthcare costs.

• Testing as a service can bridge the gap for startups in the industry.

• Collaboration between academia and industry is vital for innovation.

• The production costs of assistive devices must be addressed for global access.

• Aesthetic considerations can enhance user compliance with medical devices.

Sound Bites

• "We are a service-oriented research organization."

• "We need to listen to what they say they need."

• "User-centric aesthetics can improve compliance."

Chapters

00:15

Introduction to Dr. Urs Schneider

03:02

Overview of Fraunhofer and the Role of Wearable Robotics

10:25

ExoWork Athlon: Realistic Test Method for Occupational Exoskeletons

16:32

Key Criteria for Evaluating Exoskeleton Devices

23:35

Interfacing with Product Developers and Design Improvements

28:42

Teaching and Research at Fraunhofer and University of Stuttgart

35:12

Testing as a Service and the Need for Service Providers

42:08

The Mission of Fraunhofer and the Importance of Collaboration

50:17

Online Resources to Learn More about Dr. Urs Schneider

52:07

Areas of Tech Development that Require More Attention