Multidisciplinary Evaluation Metrics for the Usability of Wearable Chairs

Abstract

Standing or maintaining a semi-squatting working posture for a long time will lead to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs). Some studies have shown that wearable chairs have the potential to alleviate WRMSDs. However, they may bring other problems during use. Therefore, it is crucial to define comprehensive evaluation methodologies and metrics for wearable chairs. This paper proposes a set of multidisciplinary evaluation methods and metrics, which contains four aspects: physiological parameters, kinematic parameters, objective performance indicators, and subjective evaluation indicators. Physiological parameters include such as electromyography, electrodermal activity, and respiration, to analyze physical and mental fatigue. Kinematic parameters can evaluate the gait balance when walking with a wearable chair. Objective performance indicators can show whether the task completion rate and task completion time meet expectations. Subjective evaluation indicators can obtain the user's perception information, such as ease of use and satisfaction. This paper aims to provide a reference for future research work, and make wearable chairs be used in actual work scenarios more safely, effectively, and efficiently.