Data dependent systems technique: a methodology with an application to human systems

The objective of this paper is to introduce the application of Data Dependent Systems (DDS) methodology to the field of ergonomics. Many current techniques in ergonomics utilize static models, which can have significant limitations. DDS is a stochastic modelling and analysis technique that can be used to capture the dynamics of a system through quantitative analysis of the available data. DDS has been successfully applied to the analysis of manufacturing processes and the surfaces generated by those processes. In this research, DDS was used to analyse time-based hand-skin temperature data for the evaluation of two types of glove liners to be used underneath latex gloves. DDS was able to capture the differences between the two glove liners and the two subjects. The implications of the results and the potential of the DDS methodology are discussed.