Reducing postural load in order picking through a smart workwear system using real-time vibrotactile feedback

• Vibrotactile feedback training may be one possible method for interventions that target at learning better work technique and improving postures in manual handling. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of real-time vibrotactile feedback using a smart workwear system for work postures intervention in industrial order picking. Fifteen workers at an industrial manufacturing plant performed order-picking tasks, in which the vibrotactile feedback was used for postural training at work. The trunk and upper arm postures were recorded by the system. Questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were conducted about the users’ experience of the system. The results showed reduced time in adverse postures for the trunk and upper arms when the workers received feedback, and for trunk postures also after feedback withdrawal. The workers perceived the system as usable, comfortable and supportive for learning.

Subject headings

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Maskinteknik -- Produktionsteknik, arbetsvetenskap och ergonomi (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Mechanical Engineering -- Production Engineering, Human Work Science and Ergonomics (hsv//eng)

Keyword

work technique training

the Smart Workwear Consortium

intervention

Publication and Content Type

vet (subject category)

ovr (subject category)