Biomechanics do not predict perceptual and cognitive consequences of force augmentation

This research paper investigates the effects of wearable force-augmentation technologies, specifically an elbow-assisting exosuit, on users' physiological, perceptual, and cognitive responses during lifting tasks. The study finds that while assistance reduces muscle activity and perceived weight, these biomechanical benefits do not straightforwardly predict behavioral outcomes such as adaptation to changing conditions or effort-based decision-making. Instead, factors like initial user experience significantly shape these responses. The authors conclude that effective force augmentation requires evaluating perceptual and cognitive consequences alongside physical performance metrics.