Reducing postural load in order picking through a smart workwear system using real-time vibrotactile feedbackShow others and affiliations
2020 (English)In: Applied Ergonomics, ISSN 0003-6870, E-ISSN 1872-9126, Vol. 89Article in journal (Refereed) Published
Abstract [en]
Vibrotactile feedback training may be one possible method for interventions that target at learning better work techniques and improving postures in manual handling. This study aimed to evaluate the short term effect of real-time vibrotactile feedback on postural exposure using a smart workwear system for work postures intervention in simulated industrial order picking. Fifteen workers at an industrial manufacturing plant performed order-picking tasks, in which the vibrotactile feedback was used for postural training at work. The system recorded the trunk and upper arm postures. Questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were conducted about the users’ experience of the system. The results showed reduced time in trunk inclination >= 20 degrees, >= 30 degrees and >= 45 degrees and dominant upper arm elevation >= 30 degrees and >= 45 degrees when the workers received feedback, and for trunk inclination >= 20 degrees, >= 30 degrees and >= 45 degrees and dominant upper arm elevation >= 30 degrees, after feedback withdrawal. The workers perceived the system as useable, comfortable, and supportive for learning. The system has the potential of contributing to improved postures in order picking through an automated short-term training program.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
Elsevier, 2020. Vol. 89
Keywords [en]
Work technique training, The smart workwear consortium, Intervention
National Category
Health Sciences
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:hb:diva-24803DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2020.103188ISI: 000565606900002Scopus ID: 2-s2.0-85087983143OAI: oai:DiVA.org:hb-24803DiVA, id: diva2:1521897
2021-01-252021-01-252021-10-21Bibliographically approved