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Evaluating factors that influence hand-arm stress while operating an electric screwdriver
1Department of Industrial Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, ROC.
Applied Ergonomics
|June 16, 2000
Summary
Using the push-to-start mode with low torque settings significantly reduces hand-arm stress from electric screwdrivers. Operating closer to the work surface also minimizes stress, with the little finger exerting the most force.
Area of Science:
- Ergonomics
- Occupational Health
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Hand-arm stress is a significant concern in occupational settings involving powered tools.
- Understanding the biomechanical factors contributing to this stress is crucial for injury prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate factors contributing to hand-arm stress during electric screwdriver operation.
- To investigate the influence of activation mode, torque, and operating distance on stress.
Main Methods:
- Assessed individual finger force exertion, flexor digitorum EMG, and hand-transmitted vibration.
- Tested two activation modes (push, push plus trigger), two torque levels (low, high), and three distances (far, middle, near).
- Thirteen healthy males operated an in-line electric screwdriver under randomized conditions.
Main Results:
- Push-to-start mode at low torque significantly reduced hand-arm stress compared to other combinations.
- Operating at a far distance (33-45 cm) resulted in greater stress and should be avoided.
- The little finger exerted the greatest force (30%), followed by the ring finger (27%) during push-to-start operation.
Conclusions:
- The push-to-start mode with low torque settings is recommended for reducing hand-arm stress.
- Minimizing operating distance and considering finger force contributions can further mitigate risks.
- These findings can inform ergonomic guidelines for electric screwdriver use.