International Journal of Advancements in Technology
Open Access

Abstract

Ergonomic evaluation of effects of handle shape and task orientation on human performance in screw driving task.

Asmar Husain, Abid Ali Khan and Faisal Hasan

This study was designed to ergonomically evaluate the effects of Handle shape and Task Orientation on human performance in screw driving task under applications of different combinations of Handle Shapes and Orientation of Work Surface. To begin with pilot study was performed prior to main study to find out the most affected muscle in screw driving, to find the correct posture and also to decide the type of screw driver. The results of pilot study suggested that PT is the most affected muscle in screw driving and productivity was maximum in standing posture with Philip headed screw. The main study “Ergonomic Evaluation of the effects of Handle Shape and Task Orientation on Human Performance in Torquing Tasks” was investigated. Eight (male and female) participants volunteered in the study. Nine different handles of Triangular, Hexagonal & Circular Shapes were used on three Orientation of the work surface were tested (Horizontal, Vertical and Inclined at 45 Degrees). To enhance the grip one handle from each shape was provided with rubber grip while the surface of one handle of each shape was textured. The result of the study showed that Orientation of the work surface was having the significant effect on all the dependent variables. On analysis of the results, it can be concluded that Vertical Orientation of the work surface was best suited for screw driving task as discomfort was minimum and productivity was maximum and also muscle was least fatigued on this orientation. However, Handle shape’s effect was only significant on discomfort Score and best results were obtained for Rubber Gripped Circular Handle.