Ergonomic Wearable Support for Industrial Workers

Comau’s MATE exoskeleton is a wearable robotic device designed to support the upper limbs during physically demanding tasks. Lightweight, breathable, and easy to wear, MATE delivers postural support without reducing mobility — helping workers perform repetitive or overhead tasks with less fatigue and more precision.

Developed and tested by Comau’s own engineers, MATE represents a new frontier in human-centered automation, improving both worker well-being and factory efficiency..

This video shows a Comau Product Development engineer using MATE in a real trial.


The wearable device supports the shoulders and arms, especially during tasks involving painting, maintenance, or overhead operations, reducing muscular stress and boosting endurance.

Designed to integrate seamlessly into daily operations, MATE is a mechanical exoskeleton that does not use motors or batteries. It provides constant torque support to the upper limbs, following the operator’s natural movement and posture.

Key benefits include:

  • Reduction in shoulder muscle effort by up to 30%
  • Increased accuracy and repeatability in repetitive tasks
  • No compromise in mobility or freedom of movement
  • Improved posture and long-term ergonomic support

Used across various industries, MATE is ideal for:

  • Industrial maintenance
  • Painting and sanding
  • Assembly line operations
  • Logistics and manual handling

MATE provides passive, continuous support to the shoulder girdle through a system of springs and levers—no motors or electronics required.

Made with soft, lightweight materials, MATE ensures comfort throughout a work shift, allowing ventilation and heat dissipation.

With adjustable sizing and fast setup, workers can put it on like a backpack and start receiving support in seconds.

The exoskeleton follows the body’s biomechanics, maintaining natural motion and flexibility while offloading shoulder stress.

With over 45 years of industrial experience, Comau is redefining the factory of the future with solutions that prioritize both performance and worker well-being.

MATE was designed by Comau and validated by its own workforce, ensuring a fit-for-purpose solution tailored to real operational needs.

Field trials and laboratory studies confirm that MATE significantly reduces muscle strain, contributing to lower fatigue and higher job satisfaction.

By protecting workers without compromising efficiency, MATE contributes to a more inclusive and sustainable manufacturing model.