046

Ergonomic Analysis

An assessment of tools, devices, or environments to optimize fit, safety, and comfort

  • Ergonomic analysis is performed to suggest redesign improvements or establish ergonomic criteria for new design.
  • The five interrelated criteria commonly used are:
    1. Size: Anthropometry is the systematic measurement of people to assess and design tools and systems.
    2. Strength: Manual force encompasses finger/hand strength for triggering and gripping and body strength for lifting.
    3. Reach: Assesses safe access to operator controls or environmental features and is typically based on fifth percentile females to accommodate most users.
    4. Clearance: Assesses effective space within and around machinery and for avoiding environmental obstacles and is commonly based on the 95th percentile male.
    5. Posture: Tool and system design should avoid excessive hand deviation or flexion and the reduction of bending and stooping to avoid discomfort, fatigue, and long-term injury.

See alsoEvaluative Research • Task Analysis • Usability Testing

An ergonomic analysis of a crimping device hand tool for Thomas & Betts.

Contoured handle with upper and lower touch points to support grip span Grooved handle overmolding provides comfort, grip stability, and durability Handle cleat (foot) grips surface for optimal leverage when crimping Release mechanism is accessed external to handles for ease of access High visibility color coding for size Wide jaw opening provides clearance for inserting/removing terminals

Courtesy of Rob Tannen, Bresslergroup

..................Content has been hidden....................

You can't read the all page of ebook, please click here login for view all page.
Reset