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Related Experiment Videos

Physical workload on neck and upper limb using two CAD applications.

Jeannette Unge Byström1, Gert-Ake Hansson, Lars Rylander

  • 1Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University Hospital, Sweden. jeannette.unge_bystrom@ymed.lu.se

Applied Ergonomics
|February 6, 2002
PubMed
Summary

Computer-aided design (CAD) work shows low muscular load, but input devices significantly impact physical workload. Keyboard use results in higher velocities than mouse use, highlighting risks associated with mouse-centric software.

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Area of Science:

  • Ergonomics
  • Occupational Health
  • Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

  • Computer-aided design (CAD) is prevalent in many industries.
  • Understanding the physical workload associated with CAD is crucial for preventing musculoskeletal disorders.
  • Previous research has not fully elucidated the impact of specific CAD applications and input devices on physical strain.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the physical workload on the neck and upper limbs during CAD operations.
  • To assess the influence of different CAD applications (PROFESSIONAL-CADAM, PRO/Engineering) and input devices (mouse, keyboard) on workload.
  • To examine the effects of sitting versus standing work positions on physical strain in CAD users.

Main Methods:

  • Physical examinations and interviews were conducted with 15 CAD operators.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Objective measurements included electromyography (EMG) of trapezius and forearm muscles, inclinometry of head and upper limbs, and wrist goniometry for nine subjects.
  • Workload was assessed during the use of specific CAD software and input devices.

    • Main Results:

    • The overall muscular load in CAD work was found to be low, with considerable inter-individual variation.
    • Neither extreme postures nor movements were observed.
    • While CAD applications themselves had minimal impact, the associated input devices significantly influenced workload, with keyboard use leading to higher angular velocities than mouse use.

    Conclusions:

    • The choice of input device is a critical factor influencing physical workload in CAD operations.
    • Software requiring predominantly mouse input may pose a higher risk of musculoskeletal disorders due to increased angular velocities.
    • Ergonomic considerations should guide the selection of CAD software and associated input devices to mitigate occupational health risks.