Towards dynamic ergonomics analysis of work sequences in virtual environments

Computer aided visualization and simulation enables early assessment of important design parameters of future products and production systems. Typically, humans affect the system performance, and in order to achieve the expected system efficiency ergonomics needs to be considered in the design process in addition to the more technical or logistical matters. Hence, there is a call for ergonomics to be a natural part of the product and production system design process, also at virtual stages. This paper portrays and discusses two cases where company-specific ergonomics guidelines were implemented into digital human modeling systems for performing static work analyses. Albeit useful, the approach of evaluating static postures gives a reduced picture of the actual situation since the work usually involves a series of movements and tasks. A recently commenced research project aims to enhance knowledge on how to estimate accumulated ergonomic load over time. This knowledge is eventually to be implemented in DHM tools to support objective ergonomics analysis of complete work sequences in virtualenvironments.