December 19, 2013
Fixtures: bench top backstop pins cradle quick release powered clamps tiltable fixture ball joints rotating Fixtures: free-standing shop stands positioner stands pedestals trunnions work positioner […]
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December 18, 2013
Pallet and container lifts fixed height spring-loaded floor flush overhead portable turntable manual pump Conveyors standard belt and roller flexible multidirectional inclined overhead auger/screw air […]
December 11, 2013
This is important research for anyone who performs observational postural assessments. Researchers Bao, Howard, Spielholz, Silverstein, and Polissar conducted a study designed to investigate interrater reliability -- the ability of different observers/assessors to reach the same conclusions when visually estimating posture. Their results indicate that the nature of the assessment tool, large angle categories vs. small angle categories in particular, and the experience and training of the assessor can have significant impacts on reliability.
November 19, 2013
As winter descends upon the northern hemisphere, it reminds us of the effects of temperature on human performance. We all know temperature can impair human abilities, […]
November 5, 2013
A team of researchers studied various center-to-center key spacing on computer keyboards to investigate whether current keyboard design standards are conducive to typing performance (speed, error rates), usability, and forearm biomechanics. Current keyboard design standards, oddly, are not based on human performance data, and this study is one of the few that takes a human-centered ergonomics approach to the ubiquitous computer keyboard. Their findings will impact future keyboard design standards, and bring credibility to the phrase "I fat-fingered it," a common explanation for keyboard related errors. Could this study also begin to lay a foundation for different sized keyboards for different sized people?
November 4, 2013
Register for the complimentary webinar Making the Case for Ergonomics and Where It Stands in Mobile Technology and hear from experts with years of industry and research experience. Join valuable discussions of the […]
September 25, 2013
Gene Kay MS, CEA, and Peter Budnick, PhD, CPE 25th September, 2013 This article is reprinted with permission from The Ergonomics Report™ Archives, where it originally appeared […]
September 24, 2013
Peter Budnick, PhD, CPE, Ergoweb's Co-Founder and CEO, and Gene Kay, MS, CEA, President, ErgoAdvocate LLC (a division of Ergoweb), will speak at several conferences over the next week. Peter will participate in Globalization of Ergonomics, a panel session taking place at the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting. Gene will speak at the 2013 Midwest Regional Occupational Health Conference and participate in a panel discussion at the Minnesota State Agency - Safety & Loss Control Conference.
September 13, 2013
By Dan MacLeod CPE www.danmacleod.com June 19, 2007 Overview Time and Physical Demands Analysis combines biomechanics with time study, which provides a very practical approach to […]
September 6, 2013
Background Manhandling barrel to empty liquid Pumps should be considered whenever liquids are handled in heavy containers. In particular, the availability of inexpensive manual pumps is […]
September 6, 2013
Background Mechanism Ratchet wrench Ratchets are commonly incorporated into tools to increase efficiency and ease of use. The mechanism reduces motions by eliminating the need to […]
September 6, 2013
Background Power steering The terms “power assist” and “mechanical assist” are used loosely in general industry, but generally refers to any device that actively aids the […]
September 6, 2013
Background Without hinge: Difficult With hinge: Easy Hinges are often overlooked as a simple way to improve efficiency and physical demands on people. They should be […]
September 6, 2013
Screw clamp: Slow, forceful Quick release: Fast, easy Principles affected Force Motions Related pages Access panels Fixtures Background Quick releases and disconnects have multiple advantages over […]
September 6, 2013
Background Speed Strength The gear is an ancient mechanism that continues to have new uses. Gears can be used either to increase speed (thereby reducing motions) or […]
September 6, 2013
Lever added to wire stripper (see lever devices below) Principles affected Force Background Levers are as old as the earliest humans. Yet, they still can play a […]
September 6, 2013
Forearm brace provides heavy force with no wrist strain Principles affected Force Background Certain types of tools and tasks can place considerable strain on the wrist. […]
September 6, 2013
Innovative strap on Whizard® knife (see comments below) Principles affected Fatigue Background Constantly holding a hand tool can fatigue muscles (“static grip”), cause pain, and interfere […]