Torque
By Avery Brooks · Last reviewed Rotational force around a joint, commonly expressed in newton-metres. In an exoskeleton, useful torque depends on the device geometry, attachment points, control timing, and the user’s movement—not only the headline rating.
Why this term matters
Two products with similar torque claims can feel very different. Exact test conditions and whether a figure is peak, continuous, per joint, or total should be recorded before comparison.
How to evaluate it in a product claim
- Record whether torque is peak or continuous.
- Confirm whether the number is per joint, per side or system-wide.
- Check the joint angle, speed and test conditions.
- Treat manufacturer torque as an attributed specification rather than a user outcome.
What it should not be confused with
Torque is not power. Torque describes rotational force; power also depends on movement speed. Neither number alone captures control timing, leverage, comfort or useful assistance.
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Primary references
These references define the standards, workplace, human-factors or regulatory context. Product-level claims still require the exact model documentation.
astm.org