Manual lifting task risk evaluation using computer vision system

• Published in: Computers & industrial engineering Vol. 31; no. 3; pp. 657 - 660
• Main Authors: Wang, M.J., Huang, G.J., Yeh, W.Y., Lee, C.L.
• Format: Journal Article Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: Seoul Elsevier Ltd 01.12.1996; Oxford Pergamon Press; New York, NY Pergamon Press Inc
• Subjects: Applications; Biological and medical sciences; Biomechanics; Computer Vision; Ergonomics. Workplace layout; Ergonomics. Workplace layout. Occupational psychology; Industrial engineering; Low Back Pain; Manual Material Handling; Materials handling; Medical sciences; Occupational medicine; Occupational safety; Public health. Hygiene-occupational medicine; Risk assessment; Studies; Vision systems; Biomechanics; Low Back Pain; Computer Vision; Manual Material Handling; Manual task; Computer vision; Ergonomics; Low back pain
• ISSN: 0360-8352; 1879-0550
• DOI: 10.1016/S0360-8352(96)00254-9

Low back injury has been a significant problem in industry. Studies indicate that inappropriate design of manual material handling (mmh) task is one of the major factors causing low back pain. Here, an automated system of evaluating the possible risk of low back injury in mmh task is developed. The system applies computer vision technique to identify the working posture, then incorporating biomechanical model and anthropometric data to calculate the low back compression force. By comparing with the specified standard limits, the system can indicate the risk level of the task. Some recommendations will then be provided. The system has been validated by comparing with the existing 2-D software, and it is found to be valid and effecient.