Ergonomics Verification of the Machine Operator Activities Using Motion Capture Through Virtual Reality in the Prototyping and Designing Phase

Abstract

The publication summarizes the current knowledge within the defined topic, motivations for further research and also comparison with other publications dealing with similar topics. One of the main motivations for further research is the nowadays common occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders and other diseases belonging to manual work tasks in industry, logistics and administration. The highest risk is usually for frequently repeated tasks, and subsequent treatment is very expensive. Therefore, the aim is to prevent the risk, not to deal with the consequences, which leads to the need to improve working conditions sufficiently in advance. This paper follows the research part by proposing a methodology for process verification in the prototyping and design phase of a machine or device from an ergonomic point of view. The method of verification in the design phase is based on the use of a combination of kinematic suit technology (Motion Capture) and head-mounted display (HMD) to simulate a real process in virtual reality (VR). The core of the methodology is to simulate the real environment and perform the required actions on a model of the device while simultaneously capturing the ergonomic workload of the person under test. The methodology allows the detection of critical issues in terms of the execution of the activities or in the design of the device, while early intervention in the design can ensure the improvement of the conditions for further real-life operation of the device. The result is a new methodology design that ensures high efficiency through its speed, quality and significant impact on future costs. The design of the methodology demonstrates sufficient flexibility, simplicity and, unlike other methodologies, significantly reduced complexity so that its adoption could take place in almost any company. The result of the publication is a proposal for a procedure for its verification in practice, further work progress and an overall evaluation of the benefits.