Digital human manikins for work-task ergonomic assessment

Abstract

Digital human manikins (DHMs) are integrated into computer tools that are implemented by workstation designers, and can be used for evaluating workstation ergonomics. Many usage cases confirm the prevention advantages of DHMs at the design stage, but only few assess their degree of confidence. This paper focuses on the influence of simulated exertion on ergonomic assessment performed with DHMs used in industry, in the simple case of an experiment in a laboratory. Digital human manikin ergonomic simulation can lead to an erroneous ergonomic index (the Occupational Repetitive Actions (OCRA) exertion multiplier). It is therefore essential to call upon an ergonomist and base oneself on accurate exertion references when interpreting ergonomic assessments made using DHMs.