Syndromes Induced by Human Body Vibrations in Biomechanical and Thermographic Approach

Abstract

There is a multitude of working activities that subject the human body to oscillations of low amplitude but high frequency, which may influence the health and integrity of body structure (bones, muscles, nervous system). Some of the most common problems that may affect health due to vibrations occurrence are the White Fingers Disease (Raynaud's syndrome), Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (for the upper limbs area), joints lesions, muscular fatigue, neurological and even cardiovascular disorders. These are mostly the results of using vibratory tools, working with hard massive equipment or even travelling in heavy vehicles in improper conditions. The early discovery of these syndromes may lead to preventing more serious symptoms which could impede upon the future activities of the working person. The paper aims at proposing a methodology for the study of human subjects using biomechanical and thermographic analysis in order to early determine any changes in their motion ability and blood circulation following the influence of different types of vibrations. For this purpose, the team will use and experimental setup consisting of a thermovision camera and a Kistler platform force, whose data will be acquired by a dedicated laptop. The analysis of the experimental results leads to conclusions related to the manner of early detection of vibrations related syndromes and propose methods of monitoring the staff involved in such activities.