An ergonomic evaluation of manual Cleco plier designs: effects of rubber grip, spring recoil, and worksurface angle

The present study evaluated two design modifications (rubber grip and torsion spring) to the conventional manual Cleco pliers by electromyography (EMG), hand discomfort, and design satisfaction. This study also surveyed workers' satisfaction with selected design features of the pliers for ergonomic improvement. A two-way (plier design x worksurface angle) within-subject (nested within gender and hand size) design was employed. Eleven workers simulated the plier task in an adjustable workstation for different plier designs and worksurface angles (0 degrees , 60 degrees , and 90 degrees ). Lower EMG values were obtained for the pliers with rubber grip and at 60 degrees of worksurface angle. EMG values varied significantly between the participants, but showed low correlations (Spearman's rank correlation = -0.27 approximately -0.58) with their work experience with the pliers. The hand discomfort and design satisfaction evaluations identified that the grip span (max = 14.0 cm) and grip force requirement (peak = 220.5 N) of the current pliers need ergonomic modification. The present study shows the needs of both the ergonomic design of a hand tool and the training of a proper work method to control work-related musculoskeletal disorders at the workplace.     

Kinematic Design of Modular Reconfigurable In-Parallel Robots

This paper describes the kinematic design issues of a modular reconfigurable parallel robot. Two types of robot modules, the fixed-dimension joint modules and the variable dimension link modules that can be custom-designed rapidly, are used to facilitate the complex design effort. Module selection and robot configuration enumeration are discussed. The kinematic analysis of modular parallel robots is based on a local frame representation of the Product-Of-Exponentials (POE) formula. Forward displacement analysis algorithms and a workspace visualization scheme are presented for a class of three-legged modular parallel robots. Two three-legged reconfigurable parallel robot configurations are actually built according to the proposed design procedure.     

User-oriented evaluation of mechanical single-channel axial pipettes

Hand tools should be designed so that they are comfortable to use, fit the hand and are user-oriented. Six different manual, single-channel axial pipettes were evaluated for such objective outcomes as muscular activity, wrist postures and efficiency, as well as for subjective outcomes concerning self-assessed features of pipette usability and musculoskeletal strain. Ten experienced laboratory employees volunteered for the study. The results showed that light and short pipettes with better tool comfort resulted in reduced muscular activity and perceived musculoskeletal strain when they were compared with a long and heavy pipette. There were no differences in the efficiency between the different pipettes. Combining both the objective and subjective measures enabled a broader evaluation of product usability. The results of this study can be used both in product development and as information on which to base the purchase of new pipettes for laboratory work.     

Biomechanical investigation of prolonged driving in an ergonomically designed truck seat prototype

A postural evaluation during a prolonged driving task was conducted to determine the ergonomic validity of a new freely adjustable truck seat prototype. Twenty participants were recruited to perform two 2-h simulated driving sessions. Postures were assessed using motion capture, accelerometers and pressure pads. Subjective discomfort was also monitored in 15-min increments using ratings of perceived discomfort (RPD) and the Automotive Seating Discomfort Questionnaire. Participants had a more neutral spine posture during the first hour of the drive and reported lower RPDs while sitting in the prototype. Pairing the gluteal backrest panel with the adjustable seat pan helped reduce the average sitting pressure. The industry-standard truck seat may lead to the development of poor whole body posture, and the proposed ergonomic redesign of a new truck seat helped improve sitting posture and reduce perceived discomfort.

Practitioner Summary: A new freely adjustable truck seat prototype was compared to an Industry standard seat to assess hypothesised improvements to sitting posture and discomfort for long haul driving. It was found that the adjustable panels in the prototype helped promote spine posture, reduce sitting pressure and improved discomfort ratings.     

冗余机械臂运动学优化设计

该文主要从机械臂运动学的角度,定义了故障容错机械臂,巧妙地论证了冗余故障容错机械臂应该具备的自由度数,以及针对不同的任务要求,设计故障容错机械臂的方法。通过将任务空间抽象简化为一系列的特征点,建立机械臂参数与理想值相关的罚函数,选择有效的优化算法,设计出了通用一阶故障容错平面位置机械臂,通用一阶故障容错空间位置机械臂,以及特定任务一阶故障容错平面位置机械臂。建立起完整的故障容错机械臂的设计方法。     

Developing the index for product design communication and evaluation from emotional perspectives

Often customers make their purchase decision based on price, quality and functionality of the product. Sometimes the decision is influenced by the perceived value, which is always subjective and emotion-driven. In order to ensure successful launch of a product, it is extremely important to predict the perceived value of design alternatives systematically based on the common language understood by both target users and designers. However, the index for communicating and evaluating such value from emotional perspective is not available in the literature. Therefore, the objective of this research is to extract key indexes of perceived value from emotional perspectives and develop an effective algorithm to evaluate products. First, through literature review and the interview of participants, many scenarios of purchase decision were collected. A focus group was invited to identify the essential elements that influence the perceived value of products. Followed by a large scale questionnaire survey and factor analysis, four indexes were extracted. These indexes, named as FASE Index in brief, included features, association, social-esteem, and engagement. Second, by combining the fuzzy mathematics and the pairwise comparison method, an evaluation model was developed. Third, the perception differences of sample products were conducted to verify the validity of FASE index. The findings of this study demonstrated that FASE index was effective for decision making in product design.     

An application of psychophysical ratings to external force estimation

An estimation of external force applied during hand-intensive work at actual work site has practical restrictions since direct measurement requires much equipment and time. This paper proposes a method that can estimate external forces applied at actual working environment on the basis of results of lab experiment. The psychophysical rating, specifically CR-10 scale developed by G. Borg, is adopted as the major tool to estimate external forces. This study also shows the general shape of the external force distribution for the most oommon and potentially risky hand postures of hand-intensive jobs.     

Cognitive evaluation for conceptual design: cognitive role of a 3D sculpture tool in the design thinking process

ABSTRACT

This study focuses on the decisive role played by the digital design environment in the cognitive design process and design thinking. To analyse the cognitive role of digital design tools, we carried out a protocol analysis of conventional design sketching and a 3D sculpture tool. Cognitive evaluation was a differentiating factor when considering the contextual role of the 3D sculpture tool in subsequent evaluations, non-sequential evaluations for conversion, and passive approaches within the design process. Cognitive evaluation played the following roles: validation, extension, navigation, exploration, and confirmation. The navigation, exploration, and extension roles played by non-sequential evaluation were mainly related to inductive design thinking. Finally, the types of cognitive evaluation and their roles when using the 3D sculpture tool were different, according to the design thinking type. This study explored the multidimensional roles of cognitive evaluation using a 3D sculpture tool and its relationship with design thinking types.     

A structured methodology for comparative evaluation of user interface designs using usability criteria and measures

Previous research in software ergonomics has indicated the importance of evaluating the usability of computer user interfaces. This paper presents a quantitative basis for selecting from among multiple alternative interfaces relative to multiple criteria of usability concern. The proposed model consists of two main phases: the prescreening phase and the evaluation phase. The prescreening phase involves expert judgment-based assessment with qualitative criteria. The first phase uses absolute measurement analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to filter possible alternative interfaces to a reasonable subset. The evaluation phase involves user-based assessment such as user testing, with quantitative criteria. The objective of the second phase is to evaluate a subset of alternatives using objective measures and to select the best alternative. A set of criteria and measures for evaluating the usability of computer software designs is presented. The proposed methodology is demonstrated in the interface design of a database system used to analyze trip cases information of nuclear power plant.Relevance to industry

There is currently a focus on the usability of interactive computer software. Software developers, interface designers or human factors engineers often confront the task of comparative evaluation among systems, versions or interface designs. The proposed methodology provides practitioners with a structured approach to select the best interface based on usability criteria and measures.     

基于虚拟样机技术的高炮运动学仿真

该文探讨了基于虚拟样机技术的实体运动学仿真方法，具体讨论了其实现过程，包括实体模型的建立，虚拟样机环境了仿模型的生成以及仿真分析结果的处理等。最后以某型高炮自动机发射动作的运动学仿真为例说明了该方法的有效性。     

Combined Inverse Kinematic and Static Analysis and Optimal Design of a Cable-Driven Mechanism with a Spring Spine

Abstract

A special humanoid neck with low motion noise requirements yields a cable-driven parallel mechanism to imitate the rotational motion of a human neck. The fixed base and moving platform of the mechanism are connected by four cables and a column compression spring. The four cables are actuated separately, while the spring can support weight on the moving platform. Although similar mechanisms exist in the literature, the analysis of them is scarce because a flexible spring instead of a rigid kinematic chain is used as the spine. With the spring’s lateral buckling motion, a new approach must be adopted to solve the kinematics. In this paper, we propose a method that combines the kinematics with the statics to solve them simultaneously. The configuration of the moving platform is parameterized with four parameters, one of which is considered as parasitic motion. Using the spring’s lateral buckling equation, we can obtain the parasitic motion and solve the inverse position problem. The optimal design for cable placements is then performed to minimize the actuation force. The method in this paper provides a novel way to analyze parallel mechanisms with a spring spine and it can be applied to other mechanisms with flexible spines.     

The influence of rice plow handle design and whole-body posture on grip force and upper-extremity muscle activation

A previous job screening study revealed ergonomics risk factors in rice field plowing. This work motivated the present experimental investigation of the influence of plow handle design and farmer whole-body posture on grip force and arm muscle activity. A total of 24 experienced farmers performed a simulated plowing task, including walking on even and uneven ground while rolling a tiller equipped with conventional horizontal and proposed vertical handles. Results revealed the proposed handles, designed to promote neutral wrist posture, to increase upper-arm muscle use between 47% and 70% across ground types, as compared with conventional handles. The ratio of grip force to forearm muscle activity (or efficiency in muscle use) increased from 1.85 when using conventional handles on uneven ground to 2.16 when using the proposed handles with symmetrical body posture on even ground. However, participants perceived higher discomfort when using the proposed handles, as they were accustomed to the conventional design.     

Vibration reduction of pneumatic percussive rivet tools: mechanical and ergonomic re-design approaches

This paper presents a systematic design approach, which is the result of years of research effort, to ergonomic re-design of rivet tools, i.e. rivet hammers and bucking bars. The investigation was carried out using both ergonomic approach and mechanical analysis of the rivet tools dynamic behavior. The optimal mechanical design parameters of the re-designed rivet tools were determined by Taguchi method. Two ergonomically re-designed rivet tools with vibration damping/isolation mechanisms were tested against two conventional rivet tools in both laboratory and field tests. Vibration characteristics of both types of tools were measured by laboratory tests using a custom-made test fixture. The subjective field evaluations of the tools were performed by six experienced riveters at an aircraft repair shop. Results indicate that the isolation spring and polymer damper are very effective in reducing the overall level of vibration under both unweighted and weighted acceleration conditions. The mass of the dolly head and the housing played a significant role in the vibration absorption of the bucking bars. Another important result was that the duct iron has better vibration reducing capability compared to steel and aluminum for bucking bars. Mathematical simulation results were also consistent with the experimental results. Overall conclusion obtained from the study was that by applying the design principles of ergonomics and by adding vibration damping/isolation mechanisms to the rivet tools, the vibration level can significantly be reduced and the tools become safer and user friendly. The details of the experience learned, design modifications, test methods, mathematical models and the results are included in the paper.     

Ergonomic redesign and evaluation of a clamping tool handle

The handle of a commercial bar clamp was redesigned using ergonomic principles and then compared with an original clamp. Ten male and ten female students participated in simulated clamping tasks under various conditions, including different clamping heights, clamping methods, and handle-gripping methods, with respect to the dependent variables of clamping and handle-squeezing forces. The results showed that the redesigned clamp produced larger clamping force with lower handle-squeezing forces than the original clamp. As expected, males exerted more force than females in both clamping and squeezing forces. A pistol grip method was superior to an upside-down handle-gripping method. Two-handed operation was recommended for this type of clamp by simultaneously pulling the trigger and sliding the bar in order to initially tighten around objects. This study shows that the application of ergonomic guidelines increases the efficiency and usability of manual handtools.     

Maximum acceptable weights for asymmetric lifting of Chinese females

This study used the psychophysical approach to evaluate the effects of asymmetric lifting on the maximum acceptable weight of lift (MAWL) and the resulting heart rate, oxygen uptake and rating of perceived exertion (RPE). A randomized complete block factorial design was employed. Twelve female college students lifted weights at three different lifting frequencies (one-time maximum, 1 and 4 lifts/min) in the sagittal plane and at three different asymmetric angles (30 degrees, 60 degrees, and 90 degrees ) from the floor to a 68-cm height pallet. This lifting experiment was conducted for a 1-h work period using a free-style lifting technique. The MAWLs for asymmetric lifting were significantly lower than those for symmetric lifting in the sagittal plane. The MAWL decreased with the increase in the angle of asymmetry. However, the heart rate, oxygen uptake and RPE remained unchanged. Though the MAWL decreased significantly with lifting frequency, both the physiological costs (heart rate and oxygen uptake) and rating of perceived exertion increased with the increase in lift frequency. The most stressed body part was the arm. Lifting frequency had no significant effect on the percentage decrease in MAWL from the sagittal plane values. On average, decreases of 5%, 9% and 14% for MAWL at 30 degrees, 60 degrees and 90 degrees asymmetric lifting, respectively, were revealed. This result was in agreement with the findings of Chinese males studied by Wu [Int. J. Ind. Ergonom. 25 (2000) 675]. The percentage decrease in MAWL with twisting angle for the Chinese participants was somewhat lower than those for Occidental participants. In addition, even though there was an increase in heart rate and RPE with the increase in the symmetrical lift angle for Occidental participants, it was different from the Chinese participants. Lastly, the 1991 NIOSH equation asymmetry multiplier is more conservative in comparison with the results of the present study.     

Psychophysically determined symmetric and asymmetric lifting capacity of Chinese males for one hour's work shifts

A laboratory experiment was conducted to determine the effects of asymmetric lifting on psychophysically determined maximum acceptable weight of lift (MAWL) and the resulting heart rate, oxygen uptake and rating of perceived exertion. Thirteen male college students were recruited as participants. Each participant performed 12 different lifting tasks involving three lifting frequencies (one-time maximum, 1 and 4 lifts/min) and four twisting angles (including the sagittal plane and three different angles of asymmetry, i.e., 0, 30, 60, and 90°) from the floor to a 76 cm high pallet for one hour's work shift using a free-style lifting technique. The results showed that: (1) The MAWLs were significantly lower for asymmetric lifting than for symmetric lifting in the sagittal plane. The MAWL decreased with an increase in the angle of asymmetry, however, the heart rate, oxygen uptake and RPE remained unchanged; (2) Lifting frequency had no significant effect on the percentage decrease in MAWL from the sagittal plane values. Correction factors of 4, 9, and 13% for MAWL at 0, 30, 60, and 90°of asymmetric lifting, respectively, are recommended; (3) Both the physiological costs (heart rate and oxygen uptake) and rating of perceived exertion increased with an increase in lifting frequency though maximum acceptable weight of lift decreased. The most stressed body parts were the lower back and the arm; and (4) The percentage decrease in MAWL with twisting angle for the Chinese participants was somewhat lower than those of the Occidental participants. In addition, even though there was a decrease in MAWL, heart rate and RPE increased with an increase in the angle of a symmetric lifting for the Occidental participants, it was different from that of the Chinese participants.

Relevance to industry

It is generally believed that asymmetric lifting involving torso twisting is more harmful to back spine than symmetric lifting. However, the previous studies were conducted in Europe and North America, and the data were obtained from the Caucasian populations. This work, therefore, aims to investigate the influence of asymmetric lifting on the lifting capacity of the Chinese participants, and to compare the differences with the Occidental populations.     

Time–cost evaluation of alternative system/process designs

Techniques for representing system/process designs are a common feature of most design methodologies. These techniques can be enhanced to provide valuable information regarding a specific design structure's trade-off between task completion times and cost. In this paper, we present a mathematical model and a solution algorithm which can be used to upgrade any well-structured representation technique to provide this trade-off. Having this information readily available allows a design team to focus on less quantifiable features of specific designs, thereby improving the overall design process.     

Expert evaluation of traffic signs: conventional vs. alternative designs

Traffic sign comprehension is significantly affected by their compliance with ergonomics design principles. Despite the UN Convention, designs vary among countries. The goal of this study was to establish theoretical and methodological bases for evaluating the design of conventional and alternative signs. Thirty-one conventional signs and 1–3 alternatives for each conventional sign were evaluated for their compliance with three ergonomics guidelines for sign design: physical and conceptual compatibility, familiarity and standardisation. Twenty-seven human factors and ergonomics experts from 10 countries evaluated the signs relative to their compliance with the guidelines. Analysis of variance across alternatives revealed that for 19 of the 31 signs, an alternative design received a significantly higher rating in its ergonomics design than the conventional sign with the same meaning. We also found a very high correlation between the experts’ ratings and comprehension from previous studies. In conclusion, many countries use signs for which better alternative designs exist, and therefore UN Convention signs should be re-examined, and ergonomics experts evaluation can serve as a good surrogate for road users’ comprehension surveys.

Practitioner summary: This study presents theoretical and methodological bases for evaluating the design of UN Conventional and alternative traffic signs. Human factors and ergonomics experts evaluated 31 conventional and 68 alternative road signs, based on ergonomics principles for sign design. Results indicated the need to re-examine poorly designed UN Convention signs.     

Ergonomic design and evaluation of new surgical scissors

The purpose of this study is to design a new surgical scissors handle and determine its effectiveness with various usability indices. A new scissors handle was designed that retains the professional grip but has the shapes of the eye rings modified to fit the thumb and ring finger and finger rests for the index and little finger. The newly designed scissors and traditional scissors were compared by electromyography, subjective evaluation and task performance in experiments using cutting and peeling tasks. The newly designed scissors reduced muscle load in both hand during cutting by the closing action, and reduced the muscle load in the left hand during peeling by the opening action through active use of the right hand. In evaluation by surgeons, task performance improved in addition to the decrease in muscle load. The newly designed scissors used in this study demonstrated high usability.

Practitioner Summary: A new scissors handle was designed that has the eye rings modified to fit the thumb and ring finger. The newly designed scissors reduced muscle load and enabled active use of the right hand. In evaluation by surgeons, task performance improved in addition to the decrease in muscle load.     

Field evaluation of two commonly used slipmeters

A variety of slipmeters have been used to assess the slipperiness of floor surfaces. International standards for the operation of slipmeters describe the protocol for a single measurement. These standards usually do not cover some of the critical elements in safety assessment such as methods for the selection of measurement locations and the necessary number of repeated measurements at each location. Furthermore, most of the slipmeters were evaluated in laboratory settings with new floor surfaces and artificial contaminants. Two commonly used slipmeters, the Brungraber Mark II and the English XL, were evaluated at actual worksites in this experiment. Four floor tiles in each of four different work areas in the kitchens of 18 fast food restaurants were selected for repeated measurements with these two slipmeters. The results indicated that sanding of footwear materials has a significant effect on the outcomes of friction measurements, and the tile-to-tile variations in friction in the same areas of restaurants were also mostly statistically significant. Significant local variation in friction among tiles in the same area could potentially increase the chances of slip and fall incidents. Both slipmeters used in this experiment could potentially have problems in the areas with grease, such as grill and fryer areas, since the build-up of grease during repeated strikes could alter the outcome of friction measured.