Biomechanical and physiological analyses of a luggage-pulling task

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Work Physiology
• Ergonomics

Background:

• Two-wheeled carry-on luggage is common for travelers.
• Assessing the physical stresses associated with pulling luggage is important for user health and product design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the biomechanical and physiological stresses experienced by users pulling two-wheeled carry-on luggage.
• To identify key factors influencing these physical stresses.

Main Methods:

• Developed a 3D inverse dynamic biomechanical model with fifteen segments.
• Measured joint reaction forces, joint moments, energy expenditure, and heart rate.
• Subjects performed luggage-pulling tasks under various conditions (handle height, rotation, wheel diameter, load weight, center of mass, carpeting, subject height).

Main Results:

• Wheel diameter, center of mass, and subject height were significantly associated with physical stresses, especially on the right arm.
• ANOVA indicated these factors are critical determinants of user strain.
• Even seemingly light tasks can impose significant biomechanical loads.

Conclusions:

• Users should pack heavy items at the bottom of luggage to lower the center of mass.
• Manufacturers should prioritize larger wheel diameters in ergonomic luggage design to minimize user physical stress.