Related Experiment Videos
Handles for manual materials handling.
1Department of Industrial Engineering, State University of New York at Buffalo, New York, USA.
Applied Ergonomics
|March 1, 1980
Summary
Handles improve human interaction with loads, but optimal design lacks consensus. This study reviews handle parameters, presents new experiments on handle diameter, and offers a guide for designers to improve product and package usability.
Area of Science:
- Ergonomics
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Product Design
Background:
- Handles are crucial for improving the coupling between human operators and loads during lifting, holding, or carrying tasks.
- Existing research indicates handle effectiveness varies, yet consensus on optimal design parameters and selection criteria remains low.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing design parameters for handles.
- To present new experimental data on the impact of handle diameter.
- To provide a practical guide for product and package handle designers.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of handle design parameters.
- Conducting two new experiments focused on varying handle diameters.
- Analysis of experimental data to identify significant factors in handle effectiveness.
Main Results:
- Identified key design parameters influencing handle performance.
- Experimental results provide quantitative data on the effects of handle diameter on usability.
- Demonstrated variability in handle effectiveness based on specific design choices.
Conclusions:
- Handle design significantly impacts human-load interaction efficiency and safety.
- Further research and standardized criteria are needed to optimize handle design.
- The provided guide aims to assist designers in making informed decisions for improved handle functionality.