WORK MOTION STUDY OF PIVOT TYPE TRAILER OPERATION ON TWO WHEEL TRACTORS

This study aims to analyze the pivot type trailer operation with an ergonomic approach and the necessary interventions required to minimize work risks. Data collection was carried out using questionnaires and video recordings of the operators when the tractors as well as trailers were being operated at various conditions such as track, load, speed, straight motion or turn. Based on the Range of Motion (ROM) analysis, it was discovered that while operating this pivot type trailer, the upper body segments, such as neck, shoulders, elbows and back of the operator, comfortably controlled the tractor. Meanwhile, in the lower body segments, such as the thighs and knees, the operator generally felt discomfort. Furthermore, the analysis of the operator's subjectivity perception showed that discomfort was felt at several segments of the upper and lower body, such as the hands and knees. Therefore, several ergonomic interventions are required to increase the comfort of operating this pivot type trailer.

Biomechanical Effects on Lower Extremities in Human-Robot Collaborative Agricultural Tasks

The present study pertains to a key aspect of human-robot collaborative systems which is usually underestimated, namely occupational health prolepsis. The aim of this investigation was to assess the biomechanical effects of manual symmetric load lifting related to a synergistic agricultural task that utilizes an unmanned ground vehicle to undertake the carriage of loads. Towards that goal, kinetic and kinematic data were collected from the lower extremities of thirteen experienced workers, by testing three different deposit heights (70, 80, 90 cm) corresponding to possible adjustments of the available agricultural robot. Moreover, the muscle activation levels of three lower extremity muscles and one trunk muscle were evaluated via a wireless electromyography system. Overall, the experimental findings revealed that the lower examined load height was associated with larger knee flexion moments and hip extension moments. Nevertheless, this height was related to lower activation mainly of the erectus spinae muscles. Finally, insignificant alterations were observed for the ankle joint as well as the activation levels of the other muscles. Consequently, a height equal to 90 cm is suggested, however, by avoiding extreme lumbar postures. The current results can be exploited for possible ergonomic interventions concerning the optimal deposit height of a robotic platform when a similar case is designed.

The effect of training and workstation adjustability on teleworker discomfort during the COVID-19 pandemic

Advancements in telework have increased occupational flexibility for employees and employers alike. However, while effective telework requires planning, the COVID-19 pandemic required many employees to quickly shift to working from home without making sure the requirements for telework were in place beforehand. This study evaluated the transition to telework on university faculty and staff and investigated the effect of telework setup and ergonomics training on work-related discomfort in the at-home environment. Respondents reported increases in new or worsening pain since working from home of 24% and 51%, respectively, suggesting an immediate need for ergonomic interventions, including workstation evaluations, ergonomic training, and individual ergonomic assessments, for those who work from home.

Analysis of Enablers to Implement Ergonomic Interventions in Indian Manufacturing Industry: A Multi-criteria Decision-making Approach

The implementation of ergonomics intervention practices is the need of time in a highly global competitive working environment for cutting down musculoskeletal health issues and improving the productivity of workers. Thus far, no research has developed practical methodological approaches and techniques to look into the dynamic nature of ergonomics intervention practices, specifically in the glass artware industry. Therefore, the objective of this article is to identify and prioritize the enablers to implement ergonomics intervention practices in Indian glass artware industries. Nineteen ergonomics intervention (EI) practices enablers were identified from the literature review and 16 were screened from identified enablers with the help of fuzzy Delphi method (FDM). The screened important enablers were then examined using a hybrid Interpretive Structural Modeling- Matrix Cross-Reference Multiplication Applied to a Classification-based framework. The interpretive structural modelling (ISM) methodology helps in evaluating contextual interactions among the enablers while classifying them based on their driving and dependence power. The results revealed that stringent legal requirements from the government, along with management support and commitment, are the main drivers and play a significant role over other enablers. Further, this study attempts to explore the critical enablers that are most prevalent for implementing EI practices. The results would be helpful for industries in implementing EI practices within their production systems by introducing and boosting the dominant enabler. This research offers key insight for practitioners, researchers and policy-makers by identifying interrelationships among the enablers.

Muscular loads associated with floor vacuuming with cordless stick cleaners

The muscular loads of the upper extremity and chest muscles were assessed during floor vacuuming with stick vacuum cleaners. Ten participants conducted vacuuming with two stick cleaners (weight: 3.03 kg, 3.56 kg) on tiled and carpeted floors while the myoelectric activity of the upper extremity and chest muscles were collected. The mean muscle activation levels ranged from 15.5% to 45.7% of the maximum voluntary capacity. Greater muscular loads were observed on the forearm and shoulder muscles when vacuuming with repeated curved strokes (vs. straight storkes), and on the chest muscle when vacuuming the carpeted floor. The range of muscular loads were higher than that of occupational tasks such as house painting and dental drilling, which have been known as intensive activities for upper extremities. The results suggest that floor vacuuming with stick vacuum cleaners is physically demanding for household consumers. Ergonomic interventions such as more user-friendly design should be considered.

Yoga and Ergonomics With Graduate Students

Date Presented 04/22/21 This study analyzed the effects of yoga participation with active and passive ergonomic instruction on improving range of motion at the neck and shoulder, decreasing pain, and reducing perceived stress in a group of graduate students. Results show range of motion improvements when yoga and active ergonomic interventions are implemented for graduate students who spend prolonged periods of time sitting. No significant effects of these interventions were seen for pain or perceived stress. Primary Author and Speaker: David Plutschack Additional Authors and Speakers: James Wersal Contributing Authors: Sandra Winter, Sherrilene Classen