Instructions for Use

Purpose

The ARTUS exoskeleton is classified as "Personal Protective Equipment" (PPE) under the "PPE Regulation" (EU Regulation 2016/425). Its sole purpose is to protect against minor risks like superficial mechanical injuries and ergonomic stresses. The PPE is therefore in Category I of the PPE Regulation.

Intended use

The exoskeleton is meant to be worn on the fingers, possibly over a protective glove. It is intended to offer preventive support for activities that could lead to injury or overuse of the hands and fingers. Specifically, it can protect against:

• Injuries caused by overstretching the fingers
• Non-ergonomic strain from repetitive activities (like repeated pressing with fingertips)
• Cuts or abrasions from sharp or rough surfaces
• Minor crushing and impact to fingers

Any use other than this is considered improper, and the operator accepts all risk.

Foreseeable misuse

The following are considered misuse and are prohibited:

• Using the PPE for injuries and stresses other than those it's intended for, such as using it as cut protection
• Using the exoskeleton on fingers with long or artificial nails
• Using it in potentially explosive atmospheres
• Using it for work where the exoskeleton could be loaded with more than 50 N in the direction of pressure
• Using it for work on electrical equipment
• Use by people with limited finger and upper limb mobility
• Use by people who have not been instructed on how to use it

The manufacturer is not responsible for catastrophes caused by foreign objects or force majeure.

Limits of use

The PPE is suitable for:

• Indoors and outdoors
• Damp environments with humidity up to 95% with no condensation
• Environments with a temperature between -10 and +45°C

Using the device outside of these limits is considered improper use.

Operator obligations

The user must conduct a risk assessment for the workplace or activities where the exoskeleton will be used. They must evaluate the PPE's suitability as a protective measure for the application. When deciding on protective measures, the user must follow the hierarchy of measures, which means considering technical or organizational measures before using personal measures like PPE.

Declaration of Conformity

The ARTUS is a "Class 1" PPE under the "PPE Regulation" (EU Regulation 2016/425). It is subject to the conformity assessment procedure in Annex IV, Module A (internal production control). The full Declaration of Conformity is available online.

Description

The ARTUS PPE comes in two main versions: one for the long fingers (index to little finger) and one for the thumb. The exoskeleton features a "DigiLock" joint with a locking mechanism that allows natural finger movement but blocks dangerous overstretching. It also includes "DigiSkin," a sensitive feedback element that helps the user maintain a sense of touch despite the exoskeleton's rigid structure.

Storage

To ensure protection, store the exoskeleton and DigiSkin away from direct sunlight, at a moderate room temperature, and in conditions that are not excessively humid (max. 95% humidity).

Use of the Exoskeleton

The ARTUS Exoskeleton is delivered fully assembled, with the DigiSkin fingertip element already included.

Sizing

The different sizes of the PPE, indicated with a number on the exoskeleton, differ in their width. A user can find the right fit for their hands either by "Trial and Error" or by using the sizing tool.

Since factors like room temperature or user hydration can affect finger size, it's recommended that users try different sizes, starting with the measured one, to find the best fit for their specific situation.

Selection of the DigiSkin

There are two versions of the DigiSkin that should be chosen based on the application.

• Variant 1 "Soft": For activities that require a high degree of sensitivity and a sense of touch at the fingertip.
• Variant 2 "Tough": Features a reinforced fingertip structure, suitable for joining two elements together.

Figure 6. Variant 1 (left) "Soft" DigiSkin. Variant 2 (right) "Tough" DigiSkin.

Putting on the Exoskeleton

First, put on your protective gloves (if using them), making sure they are textile gloves and not liquid-proof. The exoskeleton should be pulled onto the finger until the fingertip touches the inner wall of the exoskeleton's tip. The joints of the exoskeleton should align with the finger joints. A poor fit is indicated if the exoskeleton wiggles on the finger or moves when the finger flexes. If this happens, you should try different length and thickness values until the joint alignment is ideal and the pressure on the finger is uniform.

You can wear one exoskeleton per finger, and multiple exoskeletons can be worn on different fingers at the same time. It is recommended to wear the PPE on the thumb, index finger, and/or middle finger, but this may change based on the activity.

Use of ARTUS

The ARTUS is designed to prevent overstretching of the finger segments during pressing activities. There are two permissible pressing directions with specific force limits.

• Pressing direction 1 (with the fingertip): Permissible up to a force of 5 kg or 50 N.
• Pressing direction 2 (pressing downwards with the fingertip): Permissible up to a force of 2 kg or 20 N.

Figure 7. Pushing direction 1 (left) Permissible force up to 5 kg/50 N. Pushing direction 2 (right) Permissible force up to 2 kg/20 N.

Cleaning and Care

It is recommended to clean the exoskeleton with a damp cloth and neutral soap. Dry it with a soft cloth before using it again. Do not use harsh detergents or solvents.

Disinfection

The exoskeleton can be disinfected with an alcohol-based cleaner if needed. However, alcohol-based cleaners should not be used to disinfect the DigiSkin.

Inspection

The exoskeleton and DigiSkin should be checked for damage or wear before each use. The DigiSkin should be replaced if necessary. If other components show signs of damage, such as cracks, the entire exoskeleton should be replaced.

Durability

The exoskeleton's durability depends on factors like temperature, frequency of use, and the type of application. It is recommended to check the DigiSkin every two weeks and replace it if necessary. The complete exoskeleton should be replaced after a maximum of six months of use.

Disposal

Disposal must be done in accordance with national and local regulations, following all waste prevention, recycling, or disposal requirements for raw materials. Raw materials should be recycled whenever possible, for example, by recycling metallic materials by type and properly disposing of plastics. The materials of each component can be verified using the product datasheet. The exoskeleton does not contain batteries or electrical components.