A Kinematic Approach to Understanding Performance in Upper-Extremity Function during a Goal-Directed Man-Machine...

Area of Science:

• Human Factors Engineering
• Biomechanics
• Naval Architecture

Background:

• US Navy Submarine Force integrated women in 2014, necessitating design modifications for cost-effective integration.
• Submarine systems rely on legacy components and computer-controlled man-machine interfaces (MMIs).
• Traditional MMI design prioritizes hand dexterity, often overlooking the role of upper-extremity movement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate upper-extremity kinematics during touchscreen tasks in the context of naval man-machine interfaces.
• To identify kinematic differences that may influence the design of submarine and surface vessel systems.

Main Methods:

• Measured joint kinematics of the right upper extremity in 10 subjects using an optoelectronic motion capture system.
• Recorded center of gravity displacements via a force plate during touchscreen tasks.
• Tasks were performed at six different metronome-paced frequencies (0–2.7 Hz).

Main Results:

• No significant differences were found in touch accuracy, task completion time, or shoulder/elbow angular displacements and velocities.
• A significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) was observed in shoulder adduction/abduction velocity.
• Results indicate specific movement patterns may be affected by task pacing.

Conclusions:

• Upper-extremity movement, particularly shoulder adduction/abduction velocity, is a critical factor in MMI design for naval environments.
• System and component dimensions, alongside adjustability, must be considered for optimal human-system interaction.
• Findings inform the design of ergonomic interfaces for integrated naval platforms.