Title: Time-related ergonomics evaluation for DHMs: a literature review

Authors: Cecilia Berlin, Tara Kajaks

Addresses: Department of Product and Production Development, Div. of Production Systems, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96, Goteborg, Sweden. ' Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada

Abstract: Ergonomics problems in production systems are of a multi-causal nature. It has been established in ergonomics literature that time-related factors, including activity duration, repetitiveness, work-rest distribution and muscle reactions to dynamic loads, can influence the occurrence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). In recent years, ergonomic practices have evolved to include the use of digital human models (DHMs) in virtual workstations, resulting in more cost-efficient and proactive evaluations. However, the ergonomic tools provided in DHMs often fail to consider time-related ergonomic factors. This literature review compiles and examines time-related ergonomics terms for the benefit of introducing such concepts into DHMs. The influence of time-scale perspectives and ambiguities regarding how terms have been used are also discussed. Developers of DHMs can benefit immensely from a literary overview of how to consider time-related factors of physical workload. Likewise, the scientific community can benefit from the identification of ambiguities and gaps in ergonomics research.

Keywords: ergonomics evaluation; time aspects; dynamic evaluation; digital human modelling; DHM; proactive ergonomics; developers; manufacturing ergonomics; ergonomics simulation; musculoskeletal disorders; cumulative loading; human factors.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHFMS.2010.040271

International Journal of Human Factors Modelling and Simulation, 2010 Vol.1 No.4, pp.356 - 379

Published online: 22 May 2011 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article