3,696 research outputs found

    Collection of anthropometry from older and physically impaired persons: traditional methods versus TC2 3-D body scanner

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    With advances in technology it is now possible to collect a wide range of anthropometric data, to a high degree of accuracy, using 3D light-based body scanners. This gives the potential to speed up the collection of anthropometric data for design purposes, to decrease processing time and data input required, and to reduce error due to inaccuracy of measurements taken using more traditional methods and equipment (anthropometer, stadiometer and sitting height table). However, when the data collection concerns older and/or physically impaired people there are serious issues for consideration when deciding on the best method to collect anthropometry. This paper discusses the issues arising when collecting data using both traditional methods of data collection and a first use by the experimental team of the TC2 3D body scanner, when faced with a ‘non-standard’ sample, during an EPSRC funded research project into issues surrounding transport usage by older and physically impaired people. Relevance to industry: Designing products, environments and services so that the increasing ageing population, as well as the physically impaired, can use them increases the potential market. To do this, up-to-date and relevant anthropometry is often needed. 3D light-based bodyscanners offer a potential fast way of obtaining this data, and this paper discusses some of the issues with using one scanner with older and disabled people

    Adaptation to transient postural perturbations

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    This research was first proposed in May, 1986, to focus on some of the problems encountered in the analysis of postural responses gathered from crewmembers. The ultimate driving force behind this line of research was the desire to treat, predict, or explain 'Space Adaptation Syndrome' (SAS) and hence circumvent any adverse effects of space motion sickness on crewmember performance. The aim of this project was to develop an easily implemented analysis of the transient responses to platform translation that can be elicited with a protocol designed to force sensorimotor reorganization, utilizing statistically reliable criterion measures. This report will present: (1) a summary of the activity that took place in each of the three funded years of the project; (2) discussion of experimental results and their implications for future research; and (3) a list of presentations and publications resulting from this project

    Development of a methodology for simulating seat back interaction using realistic body contours

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    Seat comfort is driven in part by the fit between the sitter and seat. Traditional anthropometric data provide little information about the size and shape of the torso that can be used for backrest design. This report introduces a methodology for using three-dimensional computer models of the human torso based on a statistical analysis of body shapes for conducting automated fit assessments. Surface scan data from 296 men and 417 women in a seated posture were analyzed to create a body shape model that can be adjusted to a range of postures spanning those typical of vehicle occupants. A parameterized finite-element model of an auto seat surface was created, along with custom software that generates body models and postures them in the seat. A simple simulation technique was developed to rapidly assess the fit of the torso relative to the seat back. Further refinement of the method will allow prediction of seat surface pressure distribution, which may be usefully related to subjective assessment of seat fit.The University of Michigan Transportation Research Institutehttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/89868/1/102814.pd

    Ergonomic design aid for hand-held products

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    As modern consumer products reduce in size and gain in technology there is an increasing need for ergonomic design. Additionally, ergonomics in manufacturing is increasingly an issue due to problems with the postural impact on work tasks (for example strain injuries). Traditional design practices may consider ergonomics at the later stages of design, but by then heavy investment may have already been committed to the design or manufacturing planning, reducing the impact of any ergonomic decisions. Attempts are made to address this ergonomics implementation problem through three-dimensional computer modelling of the hand. The hand’s biological structure is first explored and simplified before application of biomechanical principles. Anthropometric data is combined with biomechanical methodologies so that an internal bone structure can be fully defined dimensionally. Modelling this bone structure is seen to be extremely complex and a simplified model is produced that represents the major characteristics of the link and joint system. Skin has been modelled over this skeletal structure through surface modelling based on point cloud data obtained from a three-dimensional scanner. Articulation of the joints of the hand are explored through use of the mechanism facilities of the underlying CAD modeller (Unigraphics) and by methods relying more heavily on user interaction. The hand model integration with the CAD system allows the ergonomic evaluation to be carried out as part of the normal design process and examples of this in mobile phone and drinks’ can design are provided as a case study

    Searching for design energy: re-visiting my generative process using selection, evaluation, and morphing to generate new ideas

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    My interests lie primarily with the energy behind the design of products. In pursuing the question of that energy and its potential, it has become clear to me that prior to any claims regarding transferability it is vital to first document and analyze the components that comprise the whole of design energy. Design Energy, in this case, is the creativity and intellect behind the process of design, from idea generation to production. I have focused on the creation of a method for documenting the design process that incorporates scans and images and other process data by utilizing AutoCAD, 3DMax, Photoshop, Morpheus, and various animation creating software. Through this method I re-visited my generative process in three phases; one by searching and selecting snapshots of my creative work, two by manipulating these found images using morphing software, and three by comparing and mimicking aspects of other design processes as explained by Nigel Cross. By looking back at my process I was able to reevaluate my steps through comparing them to other processes and through my analysis method of using morphing software which led to new idea generation

    Postural injury risk assessment for industrial processes using advanced sensory systems

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    The major contributions of this research delivered both advancements and novel frameworks to enhance the current methods of postural assessments within industrial environments. This included the development of load vs repetition analysis, A novel BVH Model and a low cost ergonomic scoring tool relying on pixel labelling

    IR Barcode Reader

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    BrandWatch Technologies is a company based in Portland, Oregon that seek to detect counterfeit products in the supply chain. BrandWatch has created a taggant material, a physical marker, that can be printed over barcodes or added to the ink used to print the barcodes themselves. This material, while invisible to the naked eye, is detectable using technology that they have developed. BrandWatch enlisted the help of a four man team of Cal Poly Mechanical Engineering students to combine this technology with that of a barcode scanner. The device, capable of scanning barcodes, detecting the presence of the taggant material, and relaying this information to the user is the end result of this project. The device is easily modifiable to request a taggant read or barcode scan first. A user simply has to pull the trigger and is walked through the process of scanning and reading via LCD screen prompts on the back of the handheld device. The data collected (both barcode and the presence of the taggant) is stored in a csv file on a small USB drive on the back of the device. This can easily be removed to transfer the data to a computer at the end of a work day

    Re-design of drivers’ car seat using three dimensional reverse engineering

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    Automobile seat design in current practice requires satisfying the ergonomics guidelines as well as considers the comfort expectation of the population. The main aim is to re-examine the existing car seat designs and to propose a novel seat design for better comfort. The number of cars reviewed for drivers’ seat features and user comfort are based on the analysis using a statistical tool. The statistical tool analysis is defined using data from the survey conducted. The proposed design is obtained using the 3-D Reverse Engineering procedure on the selected car seat models. The result is assessed to show that the modified car seat design is superior in terms of form, shape, seat features, usability and comfort. Through this work, the basic seat needs while driving, for example pain preclusion aspects and comfort weightage are defined. The survey done can expunge the expenditure for test experimentations in the future and the proposed methodology can be useful in establishing new design standards for the seat

    Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders

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    Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) refer to a wide range of inflammatory and degenerative conditions that occur in the workplace or are caused by work activities. WRMSDs affect the muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, peripheral nerves, and supporting blood vessels. These conditions can cause pain and functional impairment and they often result in direct economic costs to both the workplace and the worker. Injuries sustained at work can negatively affect a person's physical and mental health as well as a company's bottom line. This book describes the human musculoskeletal system, including such topics as anthropometry and posture, as it relates to accidents and injuries in the workplace. Chapters discuss such subjects as job standards; risk assessment; direct and indirect costs of WRMSDs; epidemiology, etiology, and pathology of WRMSDs; engineering and administrative controls; risk factor identification; injury management; and education and training. It presents a holistic approach to identifying, intervening, and preventing WRMSDs
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