Identifying Key Factors Shaping Potential Users’ Perceptions of Exoskeletons: Preliminary Findings

Abstract

Exoskeletons are wearable technologies designed to enhance users’ physical strength and endurance. Given their potential to improve productivity and reduce musculoskeletal injuries, especially in physically demanding work environments, growing attention has been directed toward understanding users’ perceptions and acceptance of exoskeletons. This preliminary data analysis examined key factors that may determine exoskeleton perception among potential users. A total of 242 university students completed the Wearable Robotic Perception (WeaR-P) questionnaire, which assessed perceptions across multiple dimensions reflecting distinct characteristics of exoskeletons. Exploratory factor analysis of the preliminary data revealed a two-factor structure: perceived utility and perceived user experience. These preliminary findings suggest that both functional benefits and user experience are crucial to the acceptance of exoskeletons. This study advances the understanding of exoskeleton perception and highlights the need for a specialized acceptance model tailored to wearable assistive technologies beyond traditional frameworks such as the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM).