Abstract

Measurement and prediction of the loading of the hand is important for developing functional biomechanical models and for designing ergonomical tools, work equipment and manual handling activities. The loading of the hand was investigated in this study by focussing on the following objectives: (1) Development of a methodology to obtain hand grip pressure distribution and the forces/moments at the hand-handle interface applicable to most power tools; (2) Perform appropriate field tests using actual power tools, to study the loading of the hand in the dynamic conditions; (3) Development of mathematical models of hand-handle system. An overall hand grip pressure distribution and the resultant forces and moments at the hand-handle interface were obtained based on the grip pressure distribution. Under dynamic conditions, experienced operators performed field-testing with power grinders and the grip pressure distribution, postures and working environment was studied. Using human hand anthropometry, mathematical models were developed and analyzed to investigate the causes to the impairment of blood flow. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)