Handling Tasks Research Articles

Effectiveness of Sensors-Based Augmented Feedback in Ergonomics to Reduce Adverse Biomechanical Exposure in Work-Related Manual Handling-A Rapid Review of the Evidence.

Manual handling is a major risk factor for work-related musculoskeletal disorders and one of the leading causes of disability-adjusted life years globally, necessitating multifaceted risk reduction measures. One potential intervention for manual handling tasks is work technique training assisted by augmented feedback on biomechanical exposures. However, there is a research gap regarding its effectiveness specifically for manual handling tasks in both real work environments and controlled settings, as well as its ability to induce retained reductions in biomechanical exposure. The gap was investigated using a rapid review comprising a literature search using two databases and 11 reviews/overviews to identify studies from the past 20 years, up to studies published by 1 June 2024. Sixteen studies were identified, with 14 of them being of high or moderate methodological quality and were included. Three studies were conducted in real work environments and eleven in controlled settings. Most studies (n = 9) used auditory feedback, followed by vibration feedback (n = 6). In real work environments, the evidence for the effectiveness of sensor-based augmented feedback in reducing biomechanical exposure during administration was considered to be inconsistent and very limited directly after administration. For longer periods after administration, ranging from one week to more than six months, there is currently no evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of the feedback. In controlled settings, there was strong evidence for its effectiveness during and immediately after administration, and limited evidence for effectiveness up to six months post-administration when considering the tasks included in the training. Future research needs are discussed.

CRTF-MoeICP: A robust coarse-to-fine reflector-based LiDAR indoor positioning algorithm

The reflector-based Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) positioning method is susceptible to environmental interferences, resulting in instability. This instability not only reduces movement accuracy but also poses safety hazards. To solve the above problems in the application of LiDAR sensors in the field of indoor positioning, we propose a Coarse Registration algorithm based on the Triangular Feature (CRTF) and a fine registration algorithm based on Multi-level outlier elimination and Iterative Closest Point (MoeICP) for the reflector-based LiDAR positioning. The proposed coarse-to-fine positioning algorithm CRTF-MoeICP addresses the issue of reflector-based LiDAR positioning failure arising from the improper selection of the initial transformation matrix and outlier interference in indoor structured industrial environments. The experiment results show that the CRTF-MoeICP algorithm can ensure the stable registration of the LiDAR point cloud and the reflector map by completely removing all outliers, greatly improving the indoor positioning stability of LiDAR sensors. Besides, the proposed algorithm can be realized by LiDARs with different performance, and improve the static positioning repeatability to ±3 mm. The high precision and stable positioning results improve the motion accuracy, ensuring that the Automatic Guided Vehicle (AGV) can accurately and stably complete the handling task.

Dynamic Modelling of the Spine for the Estimation of Vertebral Joint Torques using Gordon’s Method

World Health Organization (WHO) recognised musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) as the main contributor to disability worldwide, with low back pain as the major disorder globally. The occupational disorder normally occurs during lifting. The weight of the load and manual handling tasks during lifting has an impact on the spine and joint torque. The purpose of this study is to propose a dynamic model of the spine that can estimate the vertebral joint torques. This study is a bimodal approach that consists of the experimental and theoretical parts. Ten healthy UniMAP students (10 males) participated in this study. The subjects were required to lift a 3kg weight plate for kinematics and EMG data collection. Retro-reflective markers were attached to the subject body, and then, the data was collected and stored in QTM software. Kinematic data was processed using C-Motion Visual3D. Eight Trigno Wireless Sensors were attached on the back muscles (left and right erector spinae, latissimus dorsi, external oblique and internal oblique). The EMG data were stored in EMG Acquisition software and subsequently, were processed using EMG Analysis software. Gordon’s method was used to develop a mathematical model of the spine. The model comprises of five kinematic chains which connected three lumbar, two thoracic and one cervical. The model calculated the value of joint torque on flexion/extension movement using Matlab and Microsoft Excel. When calculated on L5, the model gives an estimation within 0 – 30 kgm2s-2. The model was further used to estimate value of L3, L1, MAI and T2. The estimate average value of joint torque at L3 is within 5 – 25 kgm2s-2, MAI is within 0 – 6 kgm2s-2 and T2 is within 0 – 1 kgm2s-2. The average RMS values show the highest muscle activity on the right internal oblique muscle (1519 µV), followed by the right external oblique (1166 µV) and left external oblique (418 µV). The results obtained gives an insight on the value of joint torque that have been applied by the spine and the most activated back muscles during lifting.

A mixed reality system for the evaluation of the effects of exoskeletons on cognitive load during manual handling task

A mixed reality system for the evaluation of the effects of exoskeletons on cognitive load during manual handling task

Analisis Pelaksanaan Tugas Ramp Handling dalam Menjaga On Time Performance (OTP) Pada Maskapai Garuda Indonesia di Bandara Soekarno Hatta Cengkareng

Soekarno-Hatta Airport is the main gateway for international and domestic air travel in Indonesia. As one of the busiest airports in Southeast Asia, Soekarno-Hatta Airport handles more than 60 million passengers per year (Soekarno-Hatta Airport Authority, 2023). According to the operational management theory by Suryanto (2020), efficiency in managing all operational processes, including ramp handling, is crucial to ensure smooth and punctual flights. With high traffic volume, the main challenge is to maintain On Time Performance (OTP) to minimize flight delays. This study aims to determine the implementation of ramp handling tasks during pre-flight activities, as well as to determine the obstacles experienced by Ramp Handling officers in pre-flight activities at Soekarno Hatta Cengkareng International Airport and to determine how efforts are made by PT Gapura Angkasa in improving the quality of On Time Performance (OTP) at Soekarno Hatta International Airport, Cengkareng. This study uses a qualitative method, namely through interviews, observations, and documentation of ramp handling personnel units, this study was conducted for 1 month at Soekarno Hatta International Airport The results of this study are that ramp handling officers at Soekarno-Hatta Cengkareng International Airport are responsible for checking the readiness of ground equipment, flight documents, and coordinating with the ground crew team. The use of checklists ensures that all pre-flight steps are carried out correctly and efficiently, which is important for smooth boarding and loading.

Flexible Sensor-based Whole-body Biomechanics of Exoskeleton-assisted Patient Handling

The issue of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) stemming from manual handling tasks remains a significant economic and societal burden, with healthcare workers being one of the most persistently affected groups. Exoskeletons have seen growing implementation for aiding manual handling tasks in industrial sectors. Traditional measurements and analyses of joint kinematics and dynamics commonly utilize optical motion capture systems and force plates. Nevertheless, the limitations of optical motion capture systems include their dependence on marker visibility and the necessity for a controlled lab environment. An innovative wireless technology featuring miniaturized, skin-mounted sensors, BioStamp nPoint (MC10, Inc., MA, USA) exhibits significant potential in addressing the challenges mentioned above. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore a flexible sensor-based approach to assessing the effects of a back exoskeleton on joint kinematics during patient handling.

Ergonomic Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies for Retail Workers: Insights from a Case Study in Dungun

Manual handling activities contribute to 40% of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), leading to long-term discomfort, disability, medical costs, and financial hardships for workers, while employers face lower productivity and compensation costs. An ergonomic assessment was conducted among employees at ABC Hardware in Dungun to identify ergonomic risk factors, determine the likelihood of harm affecting workers' musculoskeletal health, and recommend control measures to improve workers' health and well-being. Utilizing a combination of interviews, observations, and questionnaires based on established ergonomics guidelines, the research highlights the prevalence of MSDs among workers engaged in manual handling tasks, emphasizing the need for ergonomic interventions and awareness to enhance workplace safety and employee well-being. Findings from the ergonomic assessment revealed significant discomfort and risk factors related to awkward postures, repetitive motions, forceful exertion, and static positions. Specific ergonomic issues identified include discomfort in the upper back, thighs, and knees among storekeepers, and neck and lower back pain among warehouse workers. Service desk representatives were found to experience discomfort related to static postures and repetitive motions. The study recommends advanced ergonomic assessments such as Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), Occupational Repetitive Assessment (OCRA), and Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), along with improvements in ergonomic practices and tools. Implementing job rotation, providing ergonomic equipment, and conducting training on proper lifting techniques are essential to address the identified risks. This research highlights the critical role of ergonomic practices in preventing MSDs and improving overall workplace safety.

Holographic visual cues for mission task elements

AbstractMission task elements (MTEs) are commonly used to evaluate the handling qualities (HQs) of rotorcraft. However, the traditional approach of physical ground courses faces challenges due to evolving rotorcraft designs and flight profiles. Infrastructure limitations and lack of flexibility for research pose significant obstacles, particularly for high-speed tasks. The emergence of new air vehicles, such as eVTOLs in the civil sector and future vertical lift configurations in the military domain, requires an adapted visual cueing process for previously unaddressed mission profiles. This paper proposes an innovative solution: an augmented reality (AR) system utilizing a head-mounted display to create virtual MTE courses called holographic visual cues (HVCs). A piloted simulation campaign performed at DLR’s AVES simulator compares the effectiveness of HVCs with dome projection-based visual cues, evaluating the performance of the AR system. The study investigated the impact of holographic visual cues on pilot handling qualities, workload ratings, and task performance, finding that although these cues typically do not significantly alter pilot ratings, individual responses varied, highlighting both the technology’s potential and the need for further refinement.

Risk factors of musculoskeletal symptoms among industrial workers in Peninsular Malaysia

Objectives. The prevalence rate of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) globally is notably high. There are a limited number of studies investigating WMSDs and their associated risk factors. However, there are currently no data available for WMSDs among industrial workers in Peninsular Malaysia. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of WMSDs and associated risk factors among industrial workers experiencing WMSDs through their daily working tasks. Methods. A quantitative study using a questionnaire was conducted among industrial workers from rehabilitation centres and factories in Peninsular Malaysia. The analysis of 232 participant narratives aimed to identify the correlation between job tasks and musculoskeletal pain, especially in case of repetitive and heavy handling tasks. Results. The prevalence of WMSDs among industrial workers stands at 93.1%. The results also indicate that the most affected part of the body was the lower back, with 62.1% for 7 days or more in the last year, caused by industrial workers’ job tasks. The prominent risk factors associated with body parts include gender, age, working hours and most difficult tasks with MSDs, especially in the lower back. Conclusion. This survey helps us to understand whether the workers are experiencing any discomfort, pain or disability related to workplace activities.

Preliminary architecture design for human-in-the-loop control of robotic equipment in remote handling tasks: Case study on the NEFERTARI project

In this work, we present a general control architecture for robotic systems dedicated to the remote handling of in-vessel components in fusion machines. This control architecture will be tested for the inspection and maintenance of the first wall components of the RFX-mod2 experiment, in the scope of the New Equipment For the Experimental Research and Technological Advancement for the Rfx Infrastructure (NEFERTARI) project. The architecture is split into low-level and high-level layers. The former is used for the low-level control of the robotics systems and to manage safety; the latter is used for the high-level planning and implements several sub-modules, such as a Virtual Reality (VR) environment for the visualisation of the robot’s digital twin. Moreover, an Application Programming Interface (API) is intended to connect the two layers, and the communication between modules and layers is provided by the ROS2 framework. A typical usage of such a framework involves a human operator who is teleoperating the real robot, data from motor encoders are used as inputs for the dynamic model module. This module is used to compute the forward dynamics in real-time, providing an accurate simulation of the robot (digital twin) in the virtual environment.

The Many Faces of a Teacher: Exploring School Teachers’ Experiences with Multiple Responsibilities Amidst Post-Pandemic Times

This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences of public elementary school teachers in Carmen District, Davao del Norte, Philippines, in handling multiple responsibilities during the post-pandemic period. Ten teachers were selected as participants using purposive sampling techniques. The study identified four main themes characterizing teachers' experiences: Testing teachers' versatility, Doing countless responsibilities, Excelling amidst trials, and Challenged with Multiple Responsibilities. Additionally, two coping mechanisms emerged from the data: Stress management and One task at a time system. Furthermore, the study uncovered insights related to educational management, including themes such as Work-life balance and Handling Task Conflict Effectively. The findings provide valuable insights into the nuanced challenges faced by public elementary school teachers in the post-pandemic context and offer implications for educational policy and practice.

Robotics Autonomous Systems (RAS) in Food Laboratories are the Future of Food Processing Industries: A Review

Recent advancements in robotics have witnessed significant progress in both industrial and mobile robotics, paving the way for a new era of automation. However, a paradigm shift is underway in robotics research, focusing on enhancing the interaction between humans and robots, termed as service robotics. This emerging field aims to cater to a wide array of human social needs by bridging the gap between man and machine. Traditionally, laboratory automation has been constrained by the rigid control mechanisms of computer-driven robots. Despite their utility, particularly in liquid handling tasks, many laboratory procedures remain only partially automated. Nonetheless, by breaking down laboratory processes into discrete unit operations and integrating them, overarching analysis schemes can be accomplished. The future of laboratory automation necessitates interdisciplinary skills, requiring scientists to blend biological knowledge with engineering expertise to fully exploit its potential. Simultaneously, a new wave of robotic innovations is permeating various sectors, from robot lawn mowers to autonomous vehicles, alongside smarter robots in manufacturing environments. This progression underscores the increasing reliance on automation, with future research endeavours expected to pivot towards leveraging laboratory automation to tackle novel scientific challenges. This abstract underscore the necessity for future scientists to acquire a comprehensive skill set that integrates both biological knowledge and engineering expertise. It highlights the trend towards greater automation in laboratory environments, representing the merging of scientific and engineering fields to tackle new research challenges.

Investigating Kinematics and Electromyography Changes in Manual Handling Tasks with an Active Lumbar Exoskeleton

Companies are becoming increasingly aware of the health of their employees and are now integrating exoskeleton solutions for both prevention and job maintenance. However, the effect of using exoskeletons is still an open question. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of an active lumbar exoskeleton and its passive belt on trunk kinematics and muscle activity using instrumented motion analysis. Twenty-three healthy subjects volunteered to perform three handlings of a 5 kg load (free lifting, squat lifting, and load transfer) under three different experimental conditions. The “Control” condition was when the subject did not wear any device, the “Belt” condition was when the subject wore only the passive part of the exoskeleton, and the “Exo” condition was when the subject wore the active exoskeleton. Based on the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment scale, the exoskeleton reduced the time spent in angles that were considered dangerous for the back, according to ergonomic evaluations. Furthermore, for the handling sessions, it was observed that the exoskeleton did not modify muscle activity in the abdominal–lumbar region.

A comparative study of biomechanical assessments in laboratory and field settings for manual material handling tasks using extractor tools and exoskeletons.

To enhance physical capabilities of workers who regularly perform physically demanding tasks involving heavy lifting and awkward postures, various tools and occupational exoskeletons can be used. Most of the studies aiming to explore the efficiency of these tools and exoskeletons have been performed in confined and controlled laboratory spaces, which do not represent the real-world work environment. This study aimed to compare the outcome of biomechanical assessment of using a back support exoskeleton and assistive tools (Lever and Jake) in the procedure of a high demanding manual material handling task versus the results found by performing the same task in a laboratory. Ten able-bodied participants and ten able-bodied utility workers performed the same manhole removal task in-lab and in-field, respectively, with the aid of an exoskeleton and Lever and Jake tools. Muscle activity and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) scores were recorded using surface electromyography and inertial measurement units, respectively and compared between in-lab and in-field trials. The field experiments indicated significant differences (p < 0.05) in normalized muscle activity across most muscles when compared to laboratory data. These results revealed how muscle activity is affected by the controlled lab setting compared to real-world field conditions. However, REBA scores indicate similar ergonomic implications regardless of the utilization of exoskeletons or tools. These findings underscore that real-world field assessments are crucial for evaluating ergonomic risks and effects of occupational exoskeletons and tools to account for environmental factors and workers' skills in ergonomic evaluations of this nature.

Biomechanical analysis of different back-supporting exoskeletons regarding musculoskeletal loading during lifting and holding

Industrial back support exoskeletons (BSEs) are a promising approach to addressing low back pain (LBP) which still affect a significant proportion of the workforce. They aim to reduce lumbar loading, the main biomechanical risk factor for LBP, by providing external support to the lumbar spine. The aim of this study was to determine the supporting effect of one active (A1) and two passive (P1 and P2) BSEs during different manual material handling tasks. Kinematic data and back muscle activity were collected from 12 subjects during dynamic lifting and static holding of 10 kg. Mean and peak L5/S1 extension moments, L5/S1 compression forces and muscle activation were included in the analysis. During dynamic lifting all BSEs reduced peak (12–26 %) and mean (4–17 %) extension moments and peak (10–22 %) and mean (4–15 %) compression forces in the lumbar spine. The peak (13–28 %) and mean (4–32 %) activity of the back extensor muscles was reduced accordingly. In the static holding task, analogous mean reductions for P1 and P2 of L5/S1 extension moments (12–20 %), compression forces (13–23 %) and muscular activity (16–23 %) were found. A1 showed a greater reduction during static holding for extension moments (46 %), compression forces (41 %) and muscular activity (54 %). This pronounced difference in the performance of the BSEs between tasks was attributed to the actuators used by the different BSEs.

Quantifying the physical demands undertaken by offshore wind technicians during a working day and casualty evacuations.

Offshore wind technicians (WTs) have been identified as having an occupation with high physical demands. To characterise the physical demands of WTs, during the working day and when performing casualty rescues. Data collection consisted of two components. Component A, 14 WTs (n = 13 male, 1 female) were monitored over three consecutive working days. The data collected consisted of: a questionnaire; heart rate and movement data; and accelerometer data. Component B, 5 WTs (n = 5 male) were assessed undertaking two simulated casualty evacuations. Heart rate and metabolic data were collected. A working day lasted 7.5 hrs to 9 hrs, with WTs covering, on average, 4.7 km on the turbine. WTs spent 28% of their time undertaking "light activity", 69% "moderate activity" and 3% working "vigorously". The greatest amount of time in a day was spent working on manual handling tasks such as torque and tensioning (up to 4 hours in total). Both rescues were performed largely aerobically, with similar cardiac and metabolic demands (14.56 (4.84) mL.kg-1.min-1 vs. 17.07 (3.54) mL.kg-1.min-1). Higher RPE values were reported for the rescue from within the Hub (median (range), 13 (12-14)) compared to down the ladder (11 (7-12)), likely due to a greater requirement to manoeuvre the casualty in tight spaces. The results presented characterise the physical requirements of WTs during the working day and two casualty evacuations. These data play an important role in supporting the job task analysis for WTs working in the offshore wind industry.

Riding to the Rescue: A Comprehensive Review of Health and Safety Measures in Ambulance Cars

Paramedics are registered health professionals in numerous countries. Whilst ambulance services must prioritize their patients, they also require personnel to be healthy to perform at their utmost to provide optimal patient care. Ambulance transport is associated with predictable and likely preventable occupant hazards. Ambulance services provide care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and shift work is known to be a risk factor for poor health. Working unsociable hours has detrimental consequences on the health and well-being of healthcare workers and can ultimately result in compromised patient care. Ambulance service utilization rates are high, with paramedics working in unpredictable environments, and undertaking complex clinical and manual handling tasks whilst caring for critically unwell patients; thus, there are several reasons postulated for poor health in this professional group. These include injuries, serious infections, high rates of musculoskeletal diseases, stress, and mental health problems. This review article aims to identify the occupational risks in an ambulance service, assess their impact on the health of employees, and explore control measures that can be implemented to reduce the risks and improve the safety of healthcare workers and patients.

Gait Learning for Hexapod Robot Facing Rough Terrain Based on Dueling-DQN Algorithm

In the handling of dangerous goods in explosive environments, robots are increasingly being used instead of human operators. Robots designed for operation in explosive environments are mostly equipped with tracked structures, which, due to their limited terrain adaptability, struggle to movement rugged landscapes. Hexapod robots, with their excellent maneuverability and adaptability, possess advantages in completing hazardous material handling tasks in such rugged terrains. One current challenge lies in enabling hexapod robots to autonomously adjust their gaits to cope with rugged terrain. This paper proposes a gait learning method based on the Dueling Deep Q-Network (Dueling-DQN) algorithm to address the gait adjustment problem of hexapod robots in sloped, terraced, and rugged terrain. The method combines lidar data and reinforcement learning to extract features from the lidar data to determine terrain types and foot coordinates. Finally, the Dueling-DQN algorithm and redundant phase strategy are employed to facilitate the motion of hexapod robots in these three types of rugged terrain. Simulation and prototype experiments are conducted to evaluate the Dueling-DQN algorithm's performance in terms of rewards and stability margins for the three types of terrain. During algorithm training on sloped, terraced, and rugged terrain, stable rewards and positive stability margins are achieved after approximately 490 iterations. The effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method are further validated through Gazebo simulation and prototype experiments. In the context of movement in rugged terrain within explosive environments, the gait learning method based on the Dueling-DQN algorithm offers valuable insights into the control of hexapod robots.

A Review of Energy Overconsumption Reduction Methods in the Utilization Stage in Compressed Air Systems

Pneumatic systems use the energy of compressed air to carry out manufacturing automation processes through the implementation of complex handling and motion tasks. However, these systems are energy intensive: it is estimated that pneumatic systems in manufacturing plants consume approximately 10% of all electricity consumed in the industrial sector. At the same time, the energy efficiency of the whole pneumatic system is observed to be 6–10%, due to the compression process, oversizing, and overconsumption. There are numerous solutions in the literature focusing on improving efficiency at the compression stage of utilization; however, for the utilization stage, there is a lack of systematization and grouping of these solutions. The following review will summarize current knowledge about the utilization stage and methods for improving oversizing and energy overconsumption. In addition, a method of exergy analysis for pneumatic systems will be presented, which is a very useful tool to assess the efficiency of these systems.

MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS RISK ASSESSMENT AMONG SMALL TOFU FACTORY WORKERS IN TANGERANG CITY: AN INDONESIAN CASE STUDY

Introduction: Conventional tofu production involves various manual handling tasks which increases the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). A previous study found a very high risk of MSDs in tofu manufacturing, especially in the filtering task with a REBA score of 13. Aims: This study aims to evaluate the risk of MSDs in tofu factory workers. Methods: Workplace observations and unstructured interviews were conducted at two traditional tofu factories (X and Y) and a more modern silken tofu factory to identify the risk of MSDs. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and the Quick Exposure Check (QEC) method were used to determine the prevalence and risk of MSDs. A total of 52 workers voluntarily participated in this study. Results: The traditional and silken tofu manufacturing processes involved seven and fifteen tasks, respectively. This study found that workers in the traditional tofu factories had a higher prevalence of MSDs than those in the silken tofu factory. In the past 12 months, traditional tofu factory workers reported MSDs in their lower back (94.4%), right shoulder (77.8%), and neck (61.1%). On the other hand, silken tofu factory workers reported MSDs in their lower back (81.3%), right shoulder (62.5%), and upper back region (56.3%). According to the QEC method, grinding and filtering were identified as two tasks with a very high risk of MSDs in the traditional factories. In addition, transferring tofu crates from cold water to hot water tub in the silken factory was identified as a very high risk of MSDs. Conclusion: Intervention is necessary for tasks with a very high risk of MSDs in small tofu factories.