Applied Ergonomics, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 122, P. 104400 - 104400
Published: Oct. 9, 2024
Language: Английский
Applied Ergonomics, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 122, P. 104400 - 104400
Published: Oct. 9, 2024
Language: Английский
Sensors, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 24(5), P. 1445 - 1445
Published: Feb. 23, 2024
This study investigates the biomechanical impact of a passive Arm-Support Exoskeleton (ASE) on workers in wool textile processing. Eight workers, equipped with surface electrodes for electromyography (EMG) recording, performed three industrial tasks, and without exoskeleton. All tasks were an upright stance involving repetitive upper limbs actions overhead work, each presenting different physical demands terms cycle duration, load handling percentage time shoulder flexion over 80°. The use ASE consistently lowered muscle activity anterior medial deltoid compared to free condition (reduction signal Root Mean Square (RMS) −21.6% −13.6%, respectively), while no difference was found Erector Spinae Longissimus (ESL) muscle. reported complete satisfaction effectiveness as rated Quebec User Evaluation Satisfaction Assistive Technology (QUEST), 62% subjects usability score very high (>80 System Usability Scale (SUS)). reduction flexor during performance is not correlated level ergonomic risk involved. preliminary affirms potential adoption support activities processing, emphasizing its efficacy reducing activity. Positive worker acceptance intention supports broader preventive tool occupational sector.
Language: Английский
Citations
9Applied Ergonomics, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 120, P. 104332 - 104332
Published: June 14, 2024
Many physically straining occupations involve lifting movements over the full-vertical range of motion, which time may lead to development musculoskeletal injuries. To address this, occupational exoskeletons can be designed provide meaningful support back and shoulders during movements. This paper introduces main functional design features OmniSuit, a novel passive exoskeleton. We present technical biomechanical considerations for expected level, as well an evaluation physiological benefit usability exoskeleton in sample 31 healthy volunteers performing demanding tasks laboratory setting. The OmniSuit significantly reduced Deltoid, Trapezius Erector Spinae muscle activity between 4.1%MVC 15.7%MVC when 2.5kg weight above shoulder level (p<0.001), corresponding reduction up 49.1% compared without A position-dependent was observed with reductions ranging 4.6%MVC 14.0%MVC leaning squatting, 41.5% measured muscular predicted torque based on model were found show similar profile those phases movement are most muscles. Participants reported experiencing good device minimal discomfort (<1/10) task execution support. These first results validate that considered helped ergonomic efficient exoskeleton, confirm potential such wearable assistive devices multiple joints tasks.
Language: Английский
Citations
6International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: unknown, P. 1 - 13
Published: Feb. 19, 2024
The objective of this study was to better understand the process adopting occupational exoskeletons and phases acceptability acceptance in particular. studies focused mainly on acceptance. This topic given considerable attention, particularly framework information systems, whereas it received less attention case exoskeletons. A questionnaire for studying both based UTAUT concepts Situated Acceptance designed. organized around seven dimensions comprising a total 33 items. Two data collection campaigns were performed. They composed two samples respondents with different characteristics. To explore correlations within these and/or exoskeletons, PLS path modeling, i.e., causal used. results show that same are involved processes. However, differently have impacts according is or models identified, their formalization as operationalization form validated. subjective tool assessing permits identifying elements impede facilitate It monitoring dynamics during utilization by operators. Lastly, from more qualitative standpoint, could also be used an interview guide exchanges future users users.
Language: Английский
Citations
5Journal of Safety Research, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 90, P. 402 - 415
Published: May 31, 2024
Language: Английский
Citations
5Ergonomics, Journal Year: 2023, Volume and Issue: 67(5), P. 660 - 673
Published: July 23, 2023
AbstractBack exosuits deliver mechanical assistance to reduce the risk of back injury, however, minimising restriction is critical for adoption. We developed adaptive impedance controller minimise while maintaining by modulating based on user's movement direction and nonlinear sine curves. The objective this study was compare active assistance, delivered a exosuit via our controller, three levels from passive elastics. Fifteen participants completed five experimental blocks (4 1 no-suit) consisting maximum flexion constrained lifting task. While higher stiffness elastic reduced extensor muscle activity 13%, it restricted range motion (RoM) 13°. approach did not restrict RoM reducing 15%, when lifting. This highlights an might improve usability circumventing assistance-restriction trade-off inherent approaches.Practitioner summary: demonstrates soft that delivers with can provide reductions in overall without impacts or perception discomfort.Keywords: Low painelectromyographybiomechanicsexosuitwearable robotics AcknowledgementsWe would like thank who volunteered as well Sarah Sullivan Wyss Institute Clinical Research team.Author contributionsConceptualisation: JC, MA, CJW; Development: JC; Protocol design: DAQ, DD, LA, Data collection: MA; analysis: DAQ; Funding acquisition: Writing – original draft: JMC; review & editing: JMC, CJWDisclosure statementCJW JC are inventors at least one patent application describing components described paper have been filed U.S. Patent Office Harvard University. University has entered into licencing agreement Verve Inc., which CJW, MA equity interest CJW board position. other authors report no conflict interest.Data availability statementAll data needed support conclusions manuscript included main text Supplementary Materials. Derived supporting findings available corresponding author C.J.W request.Additional informationFundingThis work supported NIH BACPAC under grant 1UH2AR076731-01 (CJW, LA); DOD W81XWH2010609 (CJW).
Language: Английский
Citations
12SSRN Electronic Journal, Journal Year: 2023, Volume and Issue: unknown
Published: Jan. 1, 2023
The construction sector is characterized by dynamic and perilous conditions, demanding innovative strategies to bolster worker safety. This research delves into the incorporation of cutting-edge wearable technologies as a proactive measure tailor safety protocols for sites. Focused on risk mitigation overall enhancement, this investigation assesses efficacy various advanced devices. study commences scrutinizing role intelligent helmets equipped with augmented reality (AR) technology. These furnish real-time data about site, delivering critical information workers, including potential hazards, emergency exits, equipment statuses. integration AR heightens situational awareness, empowering workers make well-informed decisions respond promptly changing conditions. Beyond smart helmets, explores implementation sensors designed monitor physiological parameters workers. Capable measuring vital signs such heart rate, body temperature, fatigue levels, these enable continuous assessment health. generated can be analyzed identify patterns trends, facilitating preventive measures address health-related risks. Additionally, adoption exoskeletons devices enhance human capabilities diminish musculoskeletal injuries. provide ergonomic support, particularly during tasks involving heavy lifting or repetitive motions. By assisting in maintaining proper posture reducing physical strain, contribute long-term injury prevention improved well-being. Integration artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms enhances sensors, providing nuanced understanding individual health personalized recommendations. presents multifaceted approach safety, addressing both environmental factors. As industry continues evolve, holds not only outcomes but also redefine future work hazardous environments.
Language: Английский
Citations
12Applied Sciences, Journal Year: 2023, Volume and Issue: 14(1), P. 84 - 84
Published: Dec. 21, 2023
This paper examines occupational exoskeletons and their effects on workers. The study includes a thorough evaluation of the current literature exoskeletons, with an emphasis impact these devices workers’ health safety, performance users’ subjective perceptions. aim was to gain knowledge how affect workers identify practical suggestions for practitioners. findings suggest that can have both positive negative Some users claimed enhanced comfort decreased fatigue, whilst others reported discomfort suffering. highlights importance considering individual needs preferences when selecting implementing in workplace, focus health, user acceptance. Based findings, presents employers practitioners ensure effective safe use settings. These recommendations cover areas such as assessment workplace requirements, selection fit optimization design ergonomics performance. concludes by highlighting need further research this area, particularly long-term use.
Language: Английский
Citations
12BMC Nursing, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 23(1)
Published: March 5, 2024
Abstract The use of exoskeletons in nursing practice has gained attention as a potential solution to address the physical demands and risks associated with profession. This narrative review examines effectiveness, usability, impact exoskeleton technology on nurses’ quality work life. focuses reduction strain fatigue, improved posture body mechanics, enhanced patient care, usability acceptance factors, broader effectiveness reducing fatigue among nurses is supported by evidence showing decreased muscle activation reduced forces exerted body. are critical considerations, including device comfort fit, ease integration into workflows, user experience training, compatibility environment, feedback for iterative design improvements. implementation positively life work-related injuries, improving well-being, enhancing job satisfaction, promoting psychological psychosocial benefits. Additionally, can lead care outcomes. Challenges future directions field include cost accessibility, adaptability specialties tasks, long-term durability maintenance, personal protective equipment, ethical considerations. Addressing these challenges considering research development efforts crucial successful practice, ultimately delivery.
Language: Английский
Citations
4Journal of Vocational Behavior, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 153, P. 104016 - 104016
Published: June 27, 2024
Language: Английский
Citations
4IIUM Engineering Journal, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 26(1), P. 495 - 523
Published: Jan. 10, 2025
Performing Salah (Islamic prayer) is a fundamental practice for all Muslims worldwide, involving physical movements such as standing, bowing, and prostrating. However, these can be challenging individuals with disabilities, who often rely on conventional chairs to support their bodies during Salah. Using presents limitations in mosques, disrupting congregation alignment hindering mobility due bulky size lack of portability. To address challenges, this study aimed design develop SolatExo, passive exoskeleton prototype tailored assist disabilities The evaluated SolatExo’s impact range motion (ROM), muscle contraction using electromyography (EMG), usability, user experience. Key findings indicated no significant reduction ROM between wearing not SolatExo. EMG analysis revealed reduced suggesting its potential alleviate muscular effort Usability assessments yielded moderate good System Scale (SUS) score 68, although feedback highlighted operational difficulties, particularly transitions postures. This underscores the importance interdisciplinary collaboration biomechanics, assistive technology design, religious studies inclusive solutions enhancing accessibility. Future research should focus refining improve usability experience, addressing comfort issues incorporating advanced ergonomics principles better serve diverse needs within Muslim community. ABSTRAK: Mendirikan solat merupakan amalan wajib bagi semua umat Islam di seluruh dunia. Solat melibatkan pergerakan fizikal seperti berdiri, rukuk, dan sujud. Pergerakan ini sukar dilakukan oleh yang mempunyai kecederaan fizikal. Mereka akan menggunakan kerusi konvensional untuk solat. Walau bagaimanapun, mencetus beberapa kelemahan ketika dalam masjid, menjejaskan lurusnya saf jemaah, menghalang mobiliti mengganggu ruang jemaah lain kerana saiznya agak besar. Untuk menangani ini, kajian bertujuan mereka bentuk membangunkan sebuah eksoskeleton pasif dicipta membantu individu mendirikan Kajian telah menilai kesan SolatExo terhadap julat pergerakan, penguncupan otot elektromiografi, kebolehgunaan, pengalaman pengguna. Penemuan utama menunjukkan tiada perbezaan ketara antara memakai tidak Analisis elektromiografi pengurangan bermakna ianya berpotensi mengurangkan usaha semasa Penilaian kebolehgunaan menghasilkan skor Skala Kebolehgunaan Sistem sederhana tinggi iaitu 68. Dari aspek maklum balas pengguna, memerlukan penambahbaikan terutamanya peralihan lancar. menekankan kepentingan kerjasama pelbagai disiplin biomekanik, reka teknologi bantuan, fiqh berimpak tinggi. Penyelidikan masa depan perlu memberi tumpuan kepada memperhalusi meningkatkan keselesaan menggabungkan prinsip ergonomik supaya memenuhi keperluan komuniti Muslim.
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