Stress assessment based on Ergonomics coupled with image-processing tools and techniques for lean product design and development

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis paper presents an innovative lean ergonomic tool (LET) for mental stress through facial muscle activity assessment. An image-processing tool has been developed based on the analysis of facial angles. These angles were perceived by analyzing the stress levels of product development team members at certain conditions. A total number of 26 subjects participated in the experiments. On the basis of angular deviation levels, a stress level classification scheme was developed using neutral position of each team members for each task. Through statistical analysis, team members were divided into the groups of same degree of stress level. Each group was assigned a numerical expression value which was relative to the perceived stress level of that group for each task. Using five distinct action categories, a criterion for the evaluation of stress level was proposed which was validated through two distinct case studies. The developed LET will help the top management in taking corrective actions to reduce the stress level during product design and development.