Ergonomic Evaluation of Simulated Apple Hand Harvesting by Using 3D Motion Analysis

Abstract

Objective: This study was conducted with the aim of using 3D motion analysis system to reveal ergonomic exposures while apple hand picking. Material and Method: The study was carried out in the ergonomics laboratory located at ATB (Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy Potsdam e.V.) in Germany with an artificial dwarf apple tree. Body postures, especially upper arm elevation, were determined by a 3D motion capture system. Evaluations were made according to ISO 11266 standard and RULA classification. Results: Average upper arm elevation changed between 27.86 0 and 33.60 0 . Time spent with elevated arm above 20 0 which is the base limit suggested by standards was found significant for entire experiments as 77% on average of the process time. It was estimated that 5 to 6 hours may be spend within 8 hours shift per day with elevated arms more than 20 0 . Conclusions: More detailed information was obtained in comparison to observational methods. This technique allows the determination of exact values of the arm positions depending on time intervals. It can also be used to determine other awkward postures such as trunk and head inclination and for any other work process.