Journal articles on the topic 'Ergonomics tools and methods'
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Lowe, Brian, Patrick Dempsey, and Evan Jones. "Assessment Methods Used by Certified Ergonomics Professionals." Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting 62, no. 1 (September 2018): 838–42. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1541931218621191.
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This paper reports findings from a web-based survey of professional ergonomists with certification through recognized organizations in English-speaking countries (USA, Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand). The purpose of the survey is to update knowledge on the types of basic tools and direct and observational assessment methods used by ergonomic practitioners. These results focus on prevalence and frequency of use for 23 ergonomic assessment methods and how ergonomists report using them (pencil and paper, computer software, mobile devices, other). N=405 ergonomists responded to the survey, representing a 34% participation rate. The NIOSH Lifting Equation is the most widely used assessment method, used by 86.9% of responding ergonomists. The findings indicate opportunities for development of mobile interfaces (“apps”) by which assessment methods can be deployed electronically. Only 25% of professionals reported using mobile apps, and several frequently used methods are predominantly used in “pencil and paper” format.
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Hanson, Lars. "Computerized Tools for Human Simulation and Ergonomic Evaluation of car Interiors." Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting 44, no. 38 (July 2000): 836–39. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/154193120004403842.
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Cars are a media fulfilling vital part of the society's need of transports as well as representing an icon of the technical development by underlining critical aspects of man and machine interface. However, various studies show that drivers experience pain and fatigue and also get disorders due to frequent or longterm driving at poor body postures. Through integration of ergonomics into the early design phase these issues can be minimized. Comfort and safety are of special importance when designing car interiors. Comfort is complex. Interior parameters such as; aesthetics, cabin space, ease of reaching controls, luminance, noise, odor, seat design, styling, climate and vibration affect the driving experience. Perceived comfort is to some extent possible to replicate by computer simulation of the human being, which at the same time could illuminate ergonomics by means of various ergonomic evaluation methods in some case integrated in these tools. This paper is a survey of such three tools, ANNIE-Ergoman, JACK and RAMSIS, used for human simulation and ergonomic evaluation. By these tools it is possible to evaluate clearance, comfort, field of vision and reach. The tools are compared and the comparison shows that all three tools have great potential in evaluating car interiors ergonomically in the early design phase. But the comparison also highlights differences between these tools and areas where one tool is superior the other. The paper points on areas as: manikins' skin representation and manikin's movements require further improvements. The paper also underlines the importance having tool-users with insight in the ergonomic evaluation methods. Furthermore, enhancement of the ergonomic evaluation methods and the integration between simulation and ergonomic evaluation methods are also needed.
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Gajšek, Brigita, Anca Draghici, Maria Elena Boatca, Alin Gaureanu, and Diana Robescu. "Linking the Use of Ergonomics Methods to Workplace Social Sustainability: The Ovako Working Posture Assessment System and Rapid Entire Body Assessment Method." Sustainability 14, no. 7 (April 5, 2022): 4301. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su14074301.
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This article concretizes the continuous development of social sustainability in organizations based on ergonomics methods and tools, among others. Numerous scientific studies have already revealed many reasons for justifying balanced efforts towards organizational sustainability, including its economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Because the social dimension is recognized as the weakest and is often neglected, it is placed at the forefront of the present research. The link between social sustainability in the workplace and the ergonomics concept is provided through 17 underlying indicators of the workplace sustainability framework proposed in a previous study. The OWAS and REBA ergonomic risk assessment methods were used in a toolmaking company to study how results can be used directly or indirectly to determine the size or value of indicators used in the sustainability framework. The research finds that direct use of the OWAS and REBA results is not possible, but it is certain that the implementation of proposals in response to identified levels of risk affects up to four out of five factors that constitute the sustainability framework. The use of OWAS and REBA is not suitable to address environmental concerns. This study encourages companies to use ergonomic methods and tools to develop social sustainability in the workplace. It is often necessary to decide between the pen-and-paper approach and an advanced one using artificial intelligence (e.g., supported by the ErgoIA software tool). Not only the method but also the technique chosen affects the degree of sustainability achieved. Finally, relevant aspects of knowledge exploitation in the field of ergonomic education for social sustainability were summarized.
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Halei, M., I. Dzubanovsky, and I. Marchuk. "Methods of simultaneous laparoscopic treatment of gallstone disease with inguinal hernia and their effectiveness." Reports of Vinnytsia National Medical University 24, no. 4 (December 28, 2020): 653–58. http://dx.doi.org/10.31393/reports-vnmedical-2020-24(4)-16.
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Annotation. Aim of work – to define and evaluate visualization and ergonomics during single laparoscopic operations and simultaneous laparoscopic operations for gallstone disease and inguinal hernia. Identify the advantages and disadvantages of techniques. Assess whether our method affects ergonomics during surgery. The design of the study formed as retrospective comparative study with the control and research groups was used for evaluation and analysis. To form groups, a statistical database was used, which included 411 patients treated in VRSH MISD. Ergonomic parameters were analyzed and compared, such as the distance between the surgeon's hands, deviations depending on the patient's physique, the angle between the manipulators, the distance of approach to the target. Null hypothesis technique used, Pearson analysis, Tukey, Mann-Whitney. It is established that the angle between the main working tools 68.64±4.68o [64–73o] against 57.29±6.764o [44–65o] (p <0.001); the visualization area was 12.17±4.43 cm2 against 9.54±2.27 cm2 (p<0.001*); in the first and second groups, respectively; the average distance of the laparoscope approaching the operating area is greater when using a laparoscope with a 30o – viewing angle which is 3.84±0.37 cm [3.4–4.2] and 3.34±0.728 cm [2.5–4.5] for our own and French methods 3.21±0.24 cm [3.0–3.5] vs. 3.41±0.478 cm [2.7–4.1] at an angle of 0o). Performing a simultaneous laparoscopic intervention does not have any significant effect on the imaging and ergonomics during surgery. The technique allows to perform surgical treatment of inguinal hernia and cholecystolithiasis at one time without worsening of ergonomics. The technique found out in VRSH MISD is sufficiently effective and usable.
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Graben, Preston Riley, Mark C. Schall, Sean Gallagher, Richard Sesek, and Yadrianna Acosta-Sojo. "Reliability Analysis of Observation-Based Exposure Assessment Tools for the Upper Extremities: A Systematic Review." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 19, no. 17 (August 25, 2022): 10595. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191710595.
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(1) Background: The objectives of this systematic review were to (i) summarize the results of studies evaluating the reliability of observational ergonomics exposure assessment tools addressing exposure to physical risk factors associated with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), and (ii) identify best practices for assessing the reliability of new observational exposure assessment tools. (2) Methods: A broad search was conducted in March 2020 of four academic databases: PubMed, Science Direct, Ergonomic Abstracts, and Web of Science. Articles were systematically excluded by removing redundant articles, examining titles and abstracts, assessing relevance to physical ergonomics and the upper extremities, and article type. (3) Results: Eleven articles were included in the review. The results indicated no singular best practice; instead, there were multiple methodological approaches researchers chose to use. Some of the significant variations in methodologies include the selection of reliability coefficients, rater and participant selection, and direct vs. digital observation. (4) Conclusion: The findings serve as a resource summarizing the reliability of existing observational risk assessment tools and identify common methods for assessing the reliability of new observational risk assessment tools. Limitations of this review include the number of databases searched, the removal of truncation symbols, and the selection of keywords used for the initial search.
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Matheis, M., and R. Prof Müller. "Innovative Handhabungskonzepte für die Lkw-Montage*/Innovative handling methods in truck manufacturing." wt Werkstattstechnik online 106, no. 09 (2016): 588–94. http://dx.doi.org/10.37544/1436-4980-2016-09-14.
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Die Lkw-Produktion ist durch eine große Variantenvielfalt gekennzeichnet. Speziell die Montage ist geprägt von einem hohen Anteil manueller Prozesse. Schwere und sperrige Bauteile und Werkzeuge müssen gehoben, geführt, positioniert und oft bei engen Toleranzen gefügt werden. Die Entwicklung eines intelligenten, teilautomatisierbaren Unterstützungssystems soll zur Verbesserung der Ergonomie, der Akzeptanz, Arbeitssicherheit, Qualität und Prozesszeit der Handhabungsaufgaben beitragen. Truck manufacturing is characterized by a high variety. Especially in assembly, a high proportion of manual processes is involved. Heavy and bulky parts and tools must be lifted, transported, positioned, and joined by close tolerances. The development of an intelligent and partially automatable assist device will help to improve ergonomics, user acceptance, safety, quality and process time of handling operations.
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Brito, Marlene Ferreira, Ana Luísa Ramos, Paula Carneiro, and Maria Antónia Gonçalves. "A continuous improvement assessment tool, considering lean, safety and ergonomics." International Journal of Lean Six Sigma 11, no. 5 (September 20, 2019): 893–916. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/ijlss-12-2017-0144.
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Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present an attempt to develop an instrument containing operational measures of lean combined with safety and ergonomic conditions in a workstation or production line. This operational tool aims to help researchers and practitioners to prioritize and evaluate the lean implementations, as well as the ergonomic and safety conditions, in an integrated way. Design/methodology/approach Lean manufacturing methods and principles, as well as safety and ergonomics aspects, were exhaustively researched with the ultimate goal of finding a way to improve the workplace by taking into account the efficiency and well-being of workers. The instrument was validated in an interactive process between theory and practical insights. At the end, it was tested in several workstations/production areas. Findings The study reveals that high scores are derived from a good interaction between lean, ergonomics and safety. Research limitations/implications It would be important to validate it in different companies and different types of industries because each one has its own characteristics. Practical implications This tool helps practitioners (technicians and ergonomic practitioners from manufacturing companies) assess the implementation of lean principles and the safety issues in their processes. It also allows managers to evaluate their business and identify the priority areas to improve according to the previously defined company’s aims. Originality/value As Peter Drucker said: “If you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it.” For a successful implementation, managers should start the lean journey with a lean assessment and make it in a regular basis. To the authors’ knowledge, there are various lean assessment tools, but this work is innovative because it provides an assessment instrument to evaluate organizations’ workstations/production areas simultaneously in three dimensions: lean, safety and ergonomic aspects.
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Donisi, Leandro, Giuseppe Cesarelli, Noemi Pisani, Alfonso Maria Ponsiglione, Carlo Ricciardi, and Edda Capodaglio. "Wearable Sensors and Artificial Intelligence for Physical Ergonomics: A Systematic Review of Literature." Diagnostics 12, no. 12 (December 5, 2022): 3048. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics12123048.
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Physical ergonomics has established itself as a valid strategy for monitoring potential disorders related, for example, to working activities. Recently, in the field of physical ergonomics, several studies have also shown potential for improvement in experimental methods of ergonomic analysis, through the combined use of artificial intelligence, and wearable sensors. In this regard, this review intends to provide a first account of the investigations carried out using these combined methods, considering the period up to 2021. The method that combines the information obtained on the worker through physical sensors (IMU, accelerometer, gyroscope, etc.) or biopotential sensors (EMG, EEG, EKG/ECG), with the analysis through artificial intelligence systems (machine learning or deep learning), offers interesting perspectives from both diagnostic, prognostic, and preventive points of view. In particular, the signals, obtained from wearable sensors for the recognition and categorization of the postural and biomechanical load of the worker, can be processed to formulate interesting algorithms for applications in the preventive field (especially with respect to musculoskeletal disorders), and with high statistical power. For Ergonomics, but also for Occupational Medicine, these applications improve the knowledge of the limits of the human organism, helping in the definition of sustainability thresholds, and in the ergonomic design of environments, tools, and work organization. The growth prospects for this research area are the refinement of the procedures for the detection and processing of signals; the expansion of the study to assisted working methods (assistive robots, exoskeletons), and to categories of workers suffering from pathologies or disabilities; as well as the development of risk assessment systems that exceed those currently used in ergonomics in precision and agility.
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Hafiz, Mohd Zani, Halim Isa, and Muhammad Syafiq Syed Mohamed. "An Overview of Ergonomics Problems Related to CNC Machining Operations." Advanced Engineering Forum 10 (December 2013): 137–42. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/aef.10.137.
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In the new era of advanced manufacturing technology, machine tool design plays an important role in maximizing productivity and occupational health of industrial workers. However, the machine tool manufacturers face difficulty in designing an ergonomic machine tool that can be suited to Malaysian industrial workers because almost all machine tools were designed according to physical dimensions, capabilities and limitations of European or American populations. This mismatch between machine design and worker abilities may eventually lead to occupational injuries. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to disseminate information on ergonomics problem, assessment methods, and control measures associated with CNC machining operation. Published articles related to CNC machining operation have been reviewed. Based on published researches, work-related musculoskeletal disorders such as low-back pain, neck and shoulder problem have been identified as common health problems associated with the machine operation. Engineering and administrative controls have been proposed to minimize the health problems.
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Daub, Urban, Nico Bölke, Verena Kopp, Michael Brück, and Urs Schneider. "Effektiv Belastung reduzieren/Effective physical stress reduction." wt Werkstattstechnik online 111, no. 09 (2021): 617–21. http://dx.doi.org/10.37544/1436-4980-2021-09-43.
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Zur Beurteilung der Ergonomie eines Arbeitsplatzes stehen bereits Methoden und Werkzeuge zur Verfügung. Jedoch erschöpfen komplexere Situationen nicht nur den Bewertungsrahmen dieser Werkzeuge, sie übersteigen auch deren Möglichkeiten, eine zielführende Lösung anzubieten. In der hier vorgestellten Methode werden die zur Bewertung erhobenen Daten ins Zentrum eines systematischen Lösungsprozesses gestellt, wie an einem abschließenden Beispiel gezeigt wird. Several methods and tools are already available for assessing the ergonomics of a workplace. However, situations that are more complex do not only exhaust the assessment scope of such tools but also fail to provide a goal-oriented solution. The method presented here places the data collected for assessment at the heart of a systematic solution process, as exemplified below.
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Townes, Maryanne. "Jigs and Fixtures: Design Review Guidelines for the Ergonomics Engineer." Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting 38, no. 15 (October 1994): 960. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/154193129403801532.
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Traditionally, the ergonomics engineer has not played an active role in the design of jigs and fixtures used to manually assemble parts. This is problematic, since tool redesigns are often infeasible due to cost and production constraints. Therefore, less effective measures must be used to control ergonomic hazards, since the hazard(s) cannot be engineered out during the design process. References, guidelines and checklists used by many tool designers do not include ergonomic engineering principles and methods. In addition, many ergonomics engineers may not be schooled in the elements of jig and fixture design, which may reduce their effectiveness as part of the tool design team. The purpose of this paper is to provide the ergonomics engineer with an overview of the design process, and proffer guidelines to assist in the review of jig and fixture designs.
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Kačerová, Ilona, Jan Kubr, Petr Hořejší, and Jana Kleinová. "Ergonomic Design of a Workplace Using Virtual Reality and a Motion Capture Suit." Applied Sciences 12, no. 4 (February 18, 2022): 2150. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/app12042150.
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Musculoskeletal disorders are some of the most frequent manual work disorders. Employers worldwide pay high costs for their treatment and prevention. We present an innovative method for designing an ergonomic workplace. This method uses new technologies and supports not only ergonomics, but also a general improvement in the designing of the manufacturing process. Although many researchers claim that there is a huge potential for using new disruptive technologies like virtual reality and motion capture in ergonomics, there is still a lack of a comprehensive methodological basis for implementing these technologies. Our approach was designed using the expert group method. We can validate the manufacturing process and the ergonomics using a motion capture (MoCap) suit and a head-mounted display (HMD). There are no legislative restrictions for the tools which are used for ergonomic analyses, so we can use our outputs for workplace scoring. Firstly, we measure the anthropometrics of the proband. Then the proband is immersed in virtual reality and they go through a manufacturing process during which ergonomics data are collected. The design of a particular workplace or multiple workplaces can be validated based on the reactions, measurements, and input in real-time. After processing the data, the workplace can be adjusted accordingly. The proposed method has a time and economic benefit for workplace design, optimisation of workplace ergonomics, and shortens the time required for designing the production line layout. It also includes optional steps for validation using conventional methods. These steps were used for method validation on a representative workplace using on-site experiments. We validated it on a group of 20 healthy operators working in automotive production (age 22 to 35). A comparison study describes the classic methods of workplace ergonomics evaluation, compares the classic evaluation using biomechanical analysis, modern evaluation using a MoCap suit, and connection with virtual reality. We have proved the validity of the method using the comparison study. The results also showed other potential issues which can be further examined: like the role of peripheral vision or haptic feedback.
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Andersen, Simone Nyholm, and Ole Broberg. "Transfer of ergonomics knowledge from participatory simulation events into hospital design projects." Work 68, no. 2 (February 26, 2021): 365–78. http://dx.doi.org/10.3233/wor-203379.
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BACKGROUND: Participatory simulation (PS) is a method that can be used to integrate ergonomics and safety into workplace design projects. Previous studies have mainly focused on tools and methods for the simulation activities. The subsequent process of transferring and integrating the simulation outcomes into the design of workplaces is poorly understood. OBJECTIVE: This study sets out to study the role of actors and objects in the transfer of ergonomics knowledge generated in PS events and in the integration of this knowledge into a design project. The study identifies factors that influence what part of the simulation outcomes are integrated. METHODS: The empirical context of the study was six PS events that were part of a hospital design project. The events were investigated based on knowledge transfer theory, observations, interviews and document studies. RESULTS: Actors and objects with abilities of transferring ergonomics knowledge from the PS events to the hospital design project were identified. The study indicated that persons producing the objects functioned as a filter, meaning that not all ergonomics knowledge was transferred from the PS events. The main influencing factors on the integration were: predetermined building dimensions and room interdependency. CONCLUSIONS: Four recommendations were proposed for ergonomists and safety professionals when planning PS events.
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Kumar Sahu, Dilip, Vikas Sharma, Ayush Jain, and Ritesh Srivastava. "EARLY STAGE ERGONOMICS STUDY TO ENSURE SAFER MANUFACTURING WORK PLACE IN AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY- A CASE STUDY." International Journal of Engineering Applied Sciences and Technology 6, no. 10 (February 1, 2022): 121–27. http://dx.doi.org/10.33564/ijeast.2022.v06i10.014.
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— Workplace ergonomics plays an important role in an automotive industry as quantum of work is done manually. Good ergonomically designed processes are key to employee’s safety, good product quality and productivity. Organizations are working continuously to improve their processes in order to improve the workplace ergonomics. Acquiescent the importance and benefits that can be reaped from good ergonomically designed processes and for healthy and motivated workforce organizations are working proactively to identify the potential improvement areas. For automotive OEM’s having large number of processes, it is difficult to identify ergonomics issues at early stages of new process design during launch of new products. Therefore, systematic approach along with effective management of study data is required for result oriented ergonomics improvement on large scale. An apt ergonomics study of processes will help to identify key ergonomics issues and also to sort them for prioritizing actions based on key studied parameter values. This paper presents methodology of early stage ergonomic study to ensure safer work place. This methodology is combination of existing ergonomics study methods which are integrated with process engineering software tool and uses 3D simulation tool for ergonomics posture analysis and improvement plan analysis. This integration is providing numerous benefits such as quick and systematic study, digitally managing information, automated results and reports of study for analysis. This detailed early stage analysis lead to root causes of ergonomic issues which is shown with the help of sample case of an assembly line.
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Marsot, Jacques, and Laurent Claudon. "Design and Ergonomics. Methods for Integrating Ergonomics at Hand Tool Design Stage." International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics 10, no. 1 (January 2004): 13–23. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10803548.2004.11076591.
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Mulyati, Guntarti Tatik, Suharno ., and M. A. Muharom. "An Implementation of Lean-ergonomic Approach to Reduce Ergonomic Parameter Waste in the Manufacture of Crackers." KnE Life Sciences 3, no. 3 (January 1, 2016): 21. http://dx.doi.org/10.18502/kls.v3i3.396.
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<p>"Subur crackers company" in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, is a manufacturer of crackers that operate conventionally. Various manual processes were employed to produce chips using several tools. The research objectives was to identify the ergonomic waste in the production process of crackers making. Ergo waste in the company was assessed based on working posture using Ovako Working Assessment System (OWAS) methods. The research indicated that the entire workstation have ergo waste. It was difficult to reduce ergo waste due to fixed design of most equipment and workplace environment. The process of cooking, kneading, molding dough, steaming and drying required more attentions on implementation of lean-ergonomic approach.</p><p><strong>Keywords</strong>: Crackers, Lean-ergonomics, Ergo waste</p>
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Callegari, Massimo, Luca Carbonari, Daniele Costa, Giacomo Palmieri, Matteo-Claudio Palpacelli, Alessandra Papetti, and Cecilia Scoccia. "Tools and Methods for Human Robot Collaboration: Case Studies at i-LABS." Machines 10, no. 11 (October 30, 2022): 997. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/machines10110997.
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The collaboration among humans and machines is one of the most relevant topics in the Industry 4.0 paradigm. Collaborative robotics owes part of the enormous impact it has had in small and medium size enterprises to its innate vocation for close cooperation between human operators and robots. The i-Labs laboratory, which is introduced in this paper, developed some case studies in this sense involving different technologies at different abstraction levels to analyse the feasibility of human-robot interaction in common, yet challenging, application scenarios. The ergonomics of the processes, safety of operators, as well as effectiveness of the cooperation are some of the aspects under investigation with the main objective of drawing to these issues the attention from industries who could benefit from them.
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Bellini, Maria Irene, Maria Ida Amabile, Paolina Saullo, Noemi Zorzetti, Mario Testini, Roberto Caronna, and Vito D’Andrea. "A Woman’s Place Is in Theatre, but Are Theatres Designed with Women in Mind? A Systematic Review of Ergonomics for Women in Surgery." Journal of Clinical Medicine 11, no. 12 (June 18, 2022): 3496. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/jcm11123496.
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Background: Literature regarding ergonomic protocols for surgery is lacking, and there is a paucity of information on how this impacts on gender differences with regards to the barriers faced by women in surgery. Methods: This article reviews current literature addressing women in surgery and ergonomics through a systematic search including the Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases. Results: Searches retrieved 425 items, and after a thorough evaluation for inclusion, 15 studies were examined—predominantly surveys (n = 9) and originating from the USA (n = 9). Identified ergonomic challenges included the general shorter height and smaller glove size of women. Furthermore, women experienced more musculoskeletal pain than men, potentially because the size and design of theatre tools are designed for male and tall individuals, highlighting an unconscious gender bias still pervading the surgical field. Conclusions: As more women enter medicine and pursue surgical careers, it is essential to foster a culture of diversity and inclusion in theatre to develop more ergonomic environments.
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Adams, Anne E., Wendy A. Rogers, and Arthur D. Fisk. "Choosing the Right Task Analysis Tool." Ergonomics in Design: The Quarterly of Human Factors Applications 20, no. 1 (January 2012): 4–10. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1064804611428925.
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A variety of task-analytical tools are available to the human factors/ergonomics practitioner, who is challenged to find the right tool for the task at hand and to apply it appropriately. In this article, we compare a number of task analysis methods, including each method’s unique contribution and the expertise required to apply it. We describe how different task analysis methods can build on each other and provide examples to illustrate.
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Jonathan, Adelia Suryani, and Mulyadi Mulyadi. "Analisis Faktor Yang Berhubungan Dengan Kejadian Low Back Pain Di PT. Maruki International Indonesia Makassar." Sulolipu: Media Komunikasi Sivitas Akademika dan Masyarakat 20, no. 1 (August 19, 2020): 31. http://dx.doi.org/10.32382/sulolipu.v20i1.1470.
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Ergonomic is compatibility between working tools and workers who not suitable can cause workers to feel uncomfortable and decreased worker of productivity. One from things related of ergonomics is work position. In this case such as long standing, lifting, pushing, sitting position, etc. Workers of body activity that is not good in the long term will cause Low back pain (LBP) or Lower Back Pain (NPB).The aim of this study was to analyze the factors associated with the incidence of Low Back Pain in PT. Maruki International Indonesia Makassar .. This research is an observational analytic study with a cross sectional study design, a total sample of 58 people and using a purposive sampling method and data analysis is tested by conducting a statistical test that is chi square.The results showed there was no relation between age and the incidence of low back pain with P-value is 0.697> 0.05, there was a relation between duration time of work and the incidence of low back pain with P-value is 0.004 <0.05 and there was a relation between work ergonomics with the incidence of low back pain with P-value is 0.012 <0.05.Based on the results of this study concluded there ere no relation between the variables with the incidence of low back pain in workers at PT. Maruki International Indonesia Makssar in the factory section 1. Suggestions It is expected that workers improve their working methods of paying attention to health by applying ergonomic work principles to avoid injury, and other occupational diseases.Keywords: Low Back Pain, Age, Duration Of Work, Ergonomics
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Zhang, Jiu Mei. "Analysis of Human-Machine Design of Hand-Grasp Apparatus." Advanced Materials Research 823 (October 2013): 96–99. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.823.96.
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Hand-held tools for the main object of study, start with the classification of the analysis of hand tools, specifically talking about the hand-held tools, human-machine design factors, including the two major aspects:1.Starting from the perspective of the"human" and point out that the hand structure of the human body, including muscle and bone structure is hand tools most closely the human-machine design factors. 2.From the "Tools" point of view, pointed out that product-related factors include the size and shape is the most important human-machine design factors of hand-held tool. Finally, hand tools must be designed to transfer to the center of the design and products of common concern, human-centered design will bring new design ideas and methods to hand-held tool designed. So ergonomics in the design of handheld products have broad application prospects.
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Persson, Johanna, and Christofer Rydenfält. "Why Are Digital Health Care Systems Still Poorly Designed, and Why Is Health Care Practice Not Asking for More? Three Paths Toward a Sustainable Digital Work Environment." Journal of Medical Internet Research 23, no. 6 (June 22, 2021): e26694. http://dx.doi.org/10.2196/26694.
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Knowledge of how to design digital systems that are ergonomically sound, high in usability, and optimized for the user, context, and task has existed for some time. Despite this, there are still too many examples of new digital health care systems that are poorly designed and that could negatively affect both the work environment of health care staff and patient safety. This could be because of a gap between the theoretical knowledge of design and ergonomics and the practical implementation of this knowledge in procuring and developing digital health care systems. Furthermore, discussions of digitalization are often at a general level and risk neglecting the nature of direct interaction with the digital system. This is problematic since it is at this detailed level that work environment and patient safety issues materialize in practice. In this paper, we illustrate such issues with two scenarios concerned with contemporary electronic health care records, based on field studies in two health care settings. We argue that current methods and tools for designing and evaluating digital systems in health care must cater both to the holistic level and to the details of interaction and ergonomics. It must also be acknowledged that health care professionals are neither designers nor engineers, so expectations of them during the development of digital systems must be realistic. We suggest three paths toward a more sustainable digital work environment in health care: (1) better tools for evaluating the digital work environment in the field; (2) generic formulations of qualitative requirements related to usability and for adaptation to the user, context, and task, to be used in procurement; and (3) the introduction of digital ergonomics as an embracing concept capturing several of the ergonomic challenges (including physical, cognitive, and organizational aspects) involved in implementing and using digital systems.
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Leppänen, Markku, Markku Mattila, and Jouni Kivistö-Rahnasto. "Designing the Ergonomic Properties of Pruning Shears Using Quality Function Deployment (QFD)." Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting 44, no. 22 (July 2000): 647–50. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/154193120004402240.
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The aim of this paper is to describe the use of Quality Function Deployment - methodology in designing the ergonomic properties of pruning shears. Ergonomic design is an essential part of product design. To join ergonomic design successfully to the design process, it is necessary to follow good design tradition and to take into account the special characteristics of ergonomics. QFD is a planning tool which can be used to identify user requirements and to interprete these requirements into product characteristics. QFD can be used for improving ergonomics and usability of products, and it has also features similar to participatory ergonomics. Both methods and approaches tend to integrate the end-user into the design process. This application of QFD - methodology described in this paper is at the moment at the stage where it can be used as a design help when aiming for more ergonomic pruning shears. It is especially suited to the initial steps of the design process when the first concepts of a new pruning shears are being developed. This application does not give any new information for the technical design, but it gathers the existing knowledge together into a form in which it is easily available. This way available resources can be allocated for those tool characteristics where they might give the most promising results. This application can be used during the whole design process e.g. in the form of a checklist or to compare prototypes with products already on the market. This research was supported by the European Community under the Industrial and Materials Technologies Programme (Brite Euram III) and it was part of the Eurohandtool Project (Contract no BRPR-CT96-0350).
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Meena, M. L., G. S. Dangayach, and A. Bhardwaj. "A Literature Review of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Handicraft Sector." International Journal of Applied Industrial Engineering 3, no. 2 (July 2016): 36–46. http://dx.doi.org/10.4018/ijaie.2016070103.
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This research review article made an attempt to review such issues pertaining to handicraft sector. It highlight/covers following aspects in detail: ergonomics interventions in handicraft industries, occupational risk factor, and musculoskeletal disorders. The literatures over a decade reported that ergonomics concepts are more applied in large-scale industries like steel plant, power plant, manufacturing plants, automotive sectors etc. rather than small-scale industries like handicraft. However, applying ergonomics concepts/principles in such industries would definitely lead to increase in the work-system-worker productivity by improvement in tools, methods, work-environment, minimizing injuries and disorders. Based on literature studies recommendations are made that significant lead to improvement in productivity of such industries.
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Dempsey, Patrick G., Raymond W. McGorry, and Wayne S. Maynard. "A survey of tools and methods used by certified professional ergonomists." Applied Ergonomics 36, no. 4 (July 2005): 489–503. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.apergo.2005.01.007.
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Ay, Haluk, Anthony Luscher, and Carolyn Sommerich. "A dynamic simulator for the ergonomics evaluation of powered torque tools for human assembly." Assembly Automation 37, no. 1 (February 6, 2017): 1–12. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/aa-12-2015-126.
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Purpose The purpose of this study is to design and develop a testing device to simulate interaction between human hand–arm dynamics, right-angle (RA) computer-controlled power torque tools and joint-tightening task-related variables. Design/methodology/approach The testing rig can simulate a variety of tools, tasks and operator conditions. The device includes custom data-acquisition electronics and graphical user interface-based software. The simulation of the human hand–arm dynamics is based on the rig’s four-bar mechanism-based design and mechanical components that provide adjustable stiffness (via pneumatic cylinder) and mass (via plates) and non-adjustable damping. The stiffness and mass values used are based on an experimentally validated hand–arm model that includes a database of model parameters. This database is with respect to gender and working posture, corresponding to experienced tool operators from a prior study. Findings The rig measures tool handle force and displacement responses simultaneously. Peak force and displacement coefficients of determination (R2) between rig estimations and human testing measurements were 0.98 and 0.85, respectively, for the same set of tools, tasks and operator conditions. The rig also provides predicted tool operator acceptability ratings, using a data set from a prior study of discomfort in experienced operators during torque tool use. Research limitations/implications Deviations from linearity may influence handle force and displacement measurements. Stiction (Coulomb friction) in the overall rig, as well as in the air cylinder piston, is neglected. The rig’s mechanical damping is not adjustable, despite the fact that human hand–arm damping varies with respect to gender and working posture. Deviations from these assumptions may affect the correlation of the handle force and displacement measurements with those of human testing for the same tool, task and operator conditions. Practical implications This test rig will allow the rapid assessment of the ergonomic performance of DC torque tools, saving considerable time in lineside applications and reducing the risk of worker injury. DC torque tools are an extremely effective way of increasing production rate and improving torque accuracy. Being a complex dynamic system, however, the performance of DC torque tools varies in each application. Changes in worker mass, damping and stiffness, as well as joint stiffness and tool program, make each application unique. This test rig models all of these factors and allows quick assessment. Social implications The use of this tool test rig will help to identify and understand risk factors that contribute to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) associated with the use of torque tools. Tool operators are subjected to large impulsive handle reaction forces, as joint torque builds up while tightening a fastener. Repeated exposure to such forces is associated with muscle soreness, fatigue and physical stress which are also risk factors for upper extremity injuries (MSDs; e.g. tendinosis, myofascial pain). Eccentric exercise exertions are known to cause damage to muscle tissue in untrained individuals and affect subsequent performance. Originality/value The rig provides a novel means for quantitative, repeatable dynamic evaluation of RA powered torque tools and objective selection of tightening programs. Compared to current static tool assessment methods, dynamic testing provides a more realistic tool assessment relative to the tool operator’s experience. This may lead to improvements in tool or controller design and reduction in associated musculoskeletal discomfort in operators.
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Anderson, BA, LMT, BCTMB, CEAS, Robin B. "Improving Body Mechanics Using Experiential Learning and Ergonomic Tools in Massage Therapy Education." International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork: Research, Education, & Practice 11, no. 4 (December 7, 2018): 23–31. http://dx.doi.org/10.3822/ijtmb.v11i4.401.
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Introduction: Current industry data suggest that the rise in occupational injuries for massage therapists is contributing to a significant number leaving the profession after a few short years. While many massage therapists are taught meth-ods for proper body mechanics and self-care within their career educational programs, there are few consistencies in the theoretical approaches to these concepts, even though it is a required component in massage therapy career training.Purpose: This study demonstrates a measurable and effective teaching method using a combination of experiential and transformative learning theory models and authentic ergonomics measurement tools to teach effective body mechanics in entry level career training that may be sustainable for new massage therapists entering the field. Methods: Four cohorts of students (N = 17) enrolled in a kinesiology course for massage thera-pists were studied using a mixed-methods time series experimental design. A pre- and post-test was conducted by utilizing two industry standard ergo-nomics risk factor assessment tools as measurable data for score comparison, to denote improvements in each student’s risk factor tendencies and provide evidentiary support of learning transfer. Between the pre- and post-test, students participated in a series of experiential learning exercises within class sessions during the semester and completed two reflection journals discussing their experiences. Results: The results showed that there was a statistically significant reduction in ergonomics risk factor scores for all students studied. Conclusion: The success of this study demon-strates that the instructional design using expe-riential and transformative educational theory and general ergonomics concepts is an effective approach to teaching proper body mechanics to massage therapy students which can be adopted into universally accepted curriculum on many levels and could eventually contribute to reduction of occupational injury in the future.
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Caterino, Mario, Pasquale Manco, Marta Rinaldi, Roberto Macchiaroli, and Alfredo Lambiase. "Ergonomic Assessment Methods Enhanced by IoT and Simulation Tools." Macromolecular Symposia 396, no. 1 (April 2021): 2000310. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/masy.202000310.
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DIENG, ROSE, OLIVIER CORBY, ALAIN GIBOIN, and MYRIAM RIBIÈRE. "Methods and tools for corporate knowledge management." International Journal of Human-Computer Studies 51, no. 3 (September 1999): 567–98. http://dx.doi.org/10.1006/ijhc.1999.0281.
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Reed, Matthew P., Don B. Chaffin, and Julian Faraway. "Critical Features in Human Motion Simulation for Ergonomic Analysis." Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting 49, no. 12 (September 2005): 1196–99. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/154193120504901221.
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Digital human figure models (DHM) are increasingly the tools of choice for assessments of the physical ergonomics of products and workplaces. Software representations of users and workers are used to visualize people performing tasks of interest. Analyses have usually focused on clearance and reach in static postures, not because the actual tasks are static, but rather because DHM have lacked robust, accurate motion simulation capability. Research is underway at many institutions to develop improved motion simulation methods, drawing on a wide variety of methodologies from fields such as computer graphics, kinesiology, motor control, and robotics. Experience in the Human Motion Simulation Laboratory at the University of Michigan suggests that conventional metrics of accuracy for posture and movement prediction do not adequately capture the aspects of human movement that are most important for ergonomic analysis. This paper identifies and justifies a set of these critical features.
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Herlan, Stephan, Jakob S. Marquardt, Bernhard Hirt, Marcos Tatagiba, and Florian H. Ebner. "3D Exoscope System in Neurosurgery—Comparison of a Standard Operating Microscope With a New 3D Exoscope in the Cadaver Lab." Operative Neurosurgery 17, no. 5 (May 29, 2019): 518–24. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/ons/opz081.
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Abstract BACKGROUND For decades, the operating microscope has been the “gold standard” visualization device in neurosurgery. The development of endoscopy revolutionized different surgical disciplines, whereas in neurosurgery, the endoscope is commonly used as an additional device more than as single visualization tool. Invention of a 3D exoscope system opens new possibilities in visualization and ergonomics in neurosurgery. OBJECTIVE To assess the prototype of a 3D exoscope (3D exoscope, year of manufacture 2015, FA Aesculap, Tüttlingen, Germany) as neurosurgical visualization device in comparison to a standard operating microscope. METHODS A pterional approach was performed in 3 ETOH-fixed specimens (6 sides). A standard operating microscope was compared to a 3D exoscope prototype. Dimensions like visual field, magnification, illumination, ergonomics, depth effect, and 3D impression were compared. RESULTS In all approaches, the structures of interest could be clearly visualized with both devices. Magnification showed similar results. The exoscope had more magnification potential, whereas the visual quality got worse in higher magnification levels. The illumination showed better results in the microscope. Surgeons felt more comfortable with the 3D exoscope, concerning ergonomic considerations. Depth effect and 3D impression showed similar results. None of the surgeons felt uncomfortable using the exoscope. CONCLUSION The operating microscope is the gold standard visualization tool in neurosurgery because of its illumination, stereoscopy, and magnification. Nevertheless, it causes ergonomic problems. The prototype of a 3D exoscope showed comparable features in visual field, stereoscopic impression, and magnification, with a clear benefit concerning the ergonomic possibilities.
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Marhaendra, Tjokorda Bagus Putra, Yeyen Komalasari, Eka Putri Suryantari, and Ni Putu Dyah Krismawintari. "Strategy to Applied Ergonomics on MSMEs during Pandemic Covid-19." International Journal of Social Science Research and Review 5, no. 11 (November 4, 2022): 1–13. http://dx.doi.org/10.47814/ijssrr.v6i10.583.
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Pandemic COVID-19 hard impact on the people’s economy, especially the tourism industry in Bali. Many businesses close, and workers lost their jobs. And started businesses independently, as Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). However, with less basic business knowledge, it is vulnerable to the risk of surviving its business. Therefore, to cope with these conditions, they need the support of strategic human resources, business strategy, and attainability with ergonomics principles. Ergonomics is the method that is used to harmonize workers with their work tools, workstations, workplace, and work environment. And participatory ergonomics methods to increase workers healthy, safety, comfort, and productivity to attain human well-being. A case study of the rearrangement workspace of “Nasi Koco” production creates a workstation wider than before and makes the work environment better. The workers are safe, comfortable, and work more efficiently, which indicated an increase in productivity.
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Radwin, Robert G., SangHyun Lee, Kang Li, Max Lieblich, and Byoung-keon Daniel Park. "Discussion Panel on Computer Vision and Occupational Ergonomics." Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting 60, no. 1 (September 2016): 958–60. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1541931213601220.
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Computer vision has already impacted a diverse field of applications, ranging from industrial robotics, intelligent and autonomous vehicles, security surveillance, manufacturing inspection, and human-computer interaction. Furthermore, digital imaging technologies are advancing ever smaller in size, finer in granularity, and faster in processing, while becoming less expensive and thus more accessible to businesses, organizations, and individuals in devices such as smart phones and tablets. Consumer products such as the Kinect™ offer advanced marker-less 3D motion capture capabilities at a low cost. New computer vision methods are now being researched and developed for occupational ergonomics applications. It is anticipated that these new tools will profoundly impact the future of occupational ergonomics and provide a variety of new instruments and techniques for design, analysis and evaluation in the practice of ergonomics. A panel of leading experts will describe some of the cutting edge research they are pursuing utilizing computer vision for occupational ergonomics applications. Radwin, Lee and Li use algorithms that track pixel patterns recorded from conventional video for quantifying repetitive hand motion, manual lifting and whole-body activities. Lee and Li describe the use computer vision tools to predict joint angles for a whole-body link model. Lieblich and Park describe the use of Kinect™ for classifying postures and generating individualized task specific avatars. Each of these approaches has specific advantages and limitations, which will be addressed by the panel. A discussion will follow exploring future research needs as well as engaging in a discussion among panelists and attendees about the needs, limitations, and obstacles that this new technology faces in bringing it into practice.
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Jadhav, Ganesh Suresh, M. Arunachalam, and Urmi Ravindra Salve. "Ergonomics and efficient workplace design for hand-sewn footwear artisans in Kolhapur, India." Work 66, no. 4 (September 17, 2020): 849–60. http://dx.doi.org/10.3233/wor-203230.
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BACKGROUND: The footwear manufacturing industry is one of the significant sectors of leather businesses in India. In the Indian footwear production industry, there is an enormous potential for employment, export, and development. Kolhapuri footwear is a popular handmade craft in India. It is a well-designed craft used by Indian people for many years. Artisans using traditional tools manufacture this footwear manually. Workers of this craft use traditional methods and work in cottage-based enterprises where organized laws and legislations are not applicable. Therefore, any occupational hazard-related documentation is not available. Due to the nature of the job, workers occupy various apparent non-optimal postures that may cause multiple work-related disorders such as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). OBJECTIVE: The main objective was to study and assess different footwear manufacturing workstations and working postures. The work further aimed to improve the design of current workstations and evaluate the proposed design using virtual ergonomic assessment techniques. METHODS: An anthropometric database for the Kolhapuri footwear making population was developed. This work measured 35 different body dimensions of the footwear manufacturing artisans. Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) was used for postural analysis of the artisans. RESULTS: It was observed that the entire footwear making activity was carried out in awkward postures. RULA scores suggested that ‘a change in posture’ to improve the efficiency of artisans was required for most of the workstations. This work proposed a novel workstation design to reduce the high risk of MSDs. The design was evaluated for thigh clearance, vision analysis and RULA analysis with the help of Digital Human Modelling (DHM). The virtual ergonomics assessment of this design revealed that the vision, thigh clearances, and RULA scores were satisfactory in the new design. CONCLUSION: The anthropometric database proposed in this study is likely to be useful in designing Kolhapuri footwear manufacturing tools. The proposed workstation and work layout are helpful to improve the accessibility of required tools and materials to footwear workers. It also helps to reduce occupational risks by easing uncomfortable work positions.
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Popova, M. A. "Cognitive ergonomics of educational ontology." Scientific Notes of Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, no. 2(18) (2020): 43–56. http://dx.doi.org/10.51707/2618-0529-2020-18-05.
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The article provides a brief analysis of studies on the use of ontologies for developing curricula, creating descriptions of their contents in the form of courses and information resources, improving the mechanisms for recommending academic sources and resources, academic assessment, management of a higher educational institution, integrating academic data and ontology-based repositories, which showed that ontology is a useful means of organizing information in the educational process. Criteria and methods for ontology metric evaluation for compliance with application requirements, increasing the availability of information for assimilation and gaining the possibility of their reuse in order to reduce the time and financial costs of modernizing existing and developing new knowledge base models are considered. A brief description of cognitive ergonomics metrics that affect the perception and ability to remember information presented in ontologies is given. The dependence of the ontology efficiency on its metrics, on the basis of which a list of cognitive-perceptual principles of developing an educational ontology is presented, is determined. The basics of the cognitive load theory and its application in the development of training resources based on ontologies are considered. A description of the cognitive load types that an educational ontology can cause to determine ways to optimize it is given. Practical advice for developers of educational ontology for the most effective presentation of information for its assimilation is given. A list of ontology creating tools, including educational purposes, is provided. The main ways of representing knowledge by means of the cognitive IT platform “Polyhedron” taking into account the features of cognitive ergonomics in the process of developing an educational ontology are described.
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Ranger, F., S. Vezeau, and M. Lortie. "Tools and methods used by industrial designers for product dimensioning." International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics 74 (November 2019): 102844. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ergon.2019.102844.
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Liljegren, Erik, and Anna-Lisa Osvalder. "Cognitive engineering methods as usability evaluation tools for medical equipment." International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics 34, no. 1 (July 2004): 49–62. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ergon.2004.01.008.
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Kakaraparthi, Venkata Nagaraj, Karthik Vishwanathan, Bhavana Gadhavi, Ravi Shankar Reddy, Jaya Shanker Tedla, Paul Silvian Samuel, Snehil Dixit, Mastour Saeed Alshahrani, and Vamsi Krishna Gannamaneni. "Application of the rapid upper limb assessment tool to assess the level of ergonomic risk among health care professionals: A systematic review." Work 71, no. 3 (March 25, 2022): 551–64. http://dx.doi.org/10.3233/wor-210239.
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BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and ergonomic risk factors are widespread problems in the healthcare sector. OBJECTIVE: The primary objective of this review is to evaluate the application of the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) tool in various healthcare professionals and to assess the level of ergonomic risk among them. METHODS: The databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, LILACS, SCIELO, DOAJ, PubMed, and PEDro were searched with terms associated with ergonomics, assessment, health care providers, risk factors, workplace, and RULA. We reviewed the literature from 2000 to 2020, including studies assessing RULA’s effectiveness for evaluating the WMSD’s and ergonomic risk in health care practitioners. We excluded the studies which were not open access and freely available. RESULTS: Overall, 757 records were screened; of these 40 potential studies, 13 different healthcare professionals were identified as eligible for inclusion. In most studies, the RULA tool was established as an effective tool in application and evaluating the level of the ergonomic risk among them. CONCLUSIONS: The RULA tool assessed the high ergonomic risk levels in dental professionals and low ergonomic risk levels in professionals working in the pharmacy department, clearly suggesting potential changes in work postures were necessary to prevent or reduce these risk factors.
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Zajačko, Ivan, and Vanessa Prajová. "Analytical Tools in an Industrial Enterprise." Multidisciplinary Aspects of Production Engineering 3, no. 1 (September 1, 2020): 347–58. http://dx.doi.org/10.2478/mape-2020-0030.
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AbstractManufacturing companies operate on data from production, operation and trade. The strategy of creating and collecting data at the centre of production processes has significantly improved in recent years. Manufacturers are now collecting and storing vast amounts of data from their manufacturing facilities, both online and offline, from multiple geographic locations and with a growing number of separate data repositories. The design of workplaces and products continues to migrate from paper to the computer, where analysis accuracy, visualization, and collaboration utilities allow designs to be realized much faster and better than ever before. As the pace of this development accelerates with the increased capabilities of the software design tools, less time is spent on physical prototyping, allowing for shortened time-to-market for new products. Ergonomists, who in the past used the physical prototypes to perform human factors analyses, are now challenged to move the analysis into the virtual domain using new tools and methods. Usability, maintainability, physical ergonomic assessments, psychological perception, and procedural training are some of the human factors issues that might benefit from analysis prior to the first physical incarnation of the design.
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Guimarães, Pompeu Paes, Nilton César Fiedler, Flavio Cipriano de Assis Carmo, José Tarcísio da Silva Oliveira, Luciano José Minette, Rômulo Maziero, and Leidimari Neves do Prado. "ADEQUAÇÃO DO LAYOUT DE UMA FÁBRICA DE FERRAMENTAS FLORESTAIS BASEADO EM PARÂMETROS ERGONÔMICOS." FLORESTA 43, no. 4 (December 31, 2013): 515. http://dx.doi.org/10.5380/rf.v43i4.28982.
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Esta pesquisa avaliou os postos de trabalho em uma fábrica de produção de ferramentas florestais visando otimizar as condições ergonômicas e o layout do processo de produção baseado nos parâmetros ergonômicos e de produtividade. Para analisar o conforto térmico, foi utilizado o índice de bulbo úmido termômetro de globo (IBUTG); para medir a velocidade do vento, anemômetro; luxímetro para avaliar a quantidade de luz do galpão de produção; e decibelímetro, para coletar o ruído a que os trabalhadores estavam expostos. O posicionamento de todas as máquinas foi mensurado junto com o caminhamento no processo de produção, sendo realizado estudo de tempos, movimentos e de produtividade. De acordo com os resultados, a área das forjadoras 1 e 2 apresentou valores de IBUTG acima do limite permitido de 25 °C. A velocidade do vento em todas as atividades foi menor que 0,75 m/s e apenas a região do orvado, área de corte 1 e soldagem apresentaram níveis de iluminância acima do mínimo permitido (NR-15). Todas as atividades extrapolaram os níveis de ruído toleráveis para a atividade, exceto o envernizamento. Pela análise do layout, propõe-se uma nova disposição física, para reduzir os tempos improdutivos, melhorar as condições ergonômicas e facilitar a sequência de produção e escoamento dos produtos.Palavras-chave: Ergonomia; arranjo físico; produção de ferramentas. AbstractLayout adequacy of a forestry tool factory for ergonomic parameters. This research evaluated the work in a forestry tools factory in order to optimize ergonomic condition and layout of production process based on ergonomic parameters and productivity. Different methods had been used to analyze the factory environment as the Wet Bulb Globe Thermometer Index (WBGT), to analyze thermal comfort, the anemometer, to measure the wind speed, the lux meter, to assess the amount of light inside the production building, and decibel meter, to collect the workers exposure to noise. The placement of all the machines was measured along the development pathway of the production process, and studies of time, movements and productivity had been developed. According to the results, the area of forger 1 and 2 had values above the allowable WBGT limit of 25 °C. The wind speed in all activities was less than 0.75 m/s and only the region of orvado, welding and cutting area 1 presented illumination levels over the minimum allowed (NR-15). Noise levels extrapolated in all the activities but varnishing. As result, it proposes a new physical layout in order to reduce unproductive times, improve the ergonomic conditions, and facilitate production sequence as well as materials flow.Keywords: Ergonomics; physical arrangement; tool production.
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Ranavolo, Alberto, Arash Ajoudani, Andrea Cherubini, Matteo Bianchi, Lars Fritzsche, Sergio Iavicoli, Massimo Sartori, et al. "The Sensor-Based Biomechanical Risk Assessment at the Base of the Need for Revising of Standards for Human Ergonomics." Sensors 20, no. 20 (October 10, 2020): 5750. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/s20205750.
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Due to the epochal changes introduced by “Industry 4.0”, it is getting harder to apply the varying approaches for biomechanical risk assessment of manual handling tasks used to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMDs) considered within the International Standards for ergonomics. In fact, the innovative human–robot collaboration (HRC) systems are widening the number of work motor tasks that cannot be assessed. On the other hand, new sensor-based tools for biomechanical risk assessment could be used for both quantitative “direct instrumental evaluations” and “rating of standard methods”, allowing certain improvements over traditional methods. In this light, this Letter aims at detecting the need for revising the standards for human ergonomics and biomechanical risk assessment by analyzing the WMDs prevalence and incidence; additionally, the strengths and weaknesses of traditional methods listed within the International Standards for manual handling activities and the next challenges needed for their revision are considered. As a representative example, the discussion is referred to the lifting of heavy loads where the revision should include the use of sensor-based tools for biomechanical risk assessment during lifting performed with the use of exoskeletons, by more than one person (team lifting) and when the traditional methods cannot be applied. The wearability of sensing and feedback sensors in addition to human augmentation technologies allows for increasing workers’ awareness about possible risks and enhance the effectiveness and safety during the execution of in many manual handling activities.
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Baber, Chris. "Methods and tools in user centred design for information technology." Applied Ergonomics 23, no. 5 (October 1992): 359–60. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/0003-6870(92)90357-2.
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Amaral, Luís P., Nelson Martins, and Joaquim B. Gouveia. "Quest for a sustainable university: a review." International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education 16, no. 2 (March 2, 2015): 155–72. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/ijshe-02-2013-0017.
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Purpose – The paper aims to deliver a general review of the methods used to pursue the concept of a “sustainable university”. Design/methodology/approach – The research was Internet based, and it included research papers, books, conference proceedings, technical reports and Internet Web sites. The review was divided in two main parts: sustainability implementation methods and assessment and report tools. In turn, the practices used on universities to implement included more “traditional” environmental sustainability initiatives and a more updated sustainable management systems. Findings – Because “traditional” sustainability environmental sustainability initiatives have flaws, more recent tools were developed to help manage sustainability. Two sustainability management systems specifically oriented to universities are outlined on this paper. They both highlight the advantage of disposing a systematized management system; the need of address environmental issues and putting special attention on the use of resources, especially energy, on campus buildings; the social responsibility of the institution; and educational and research sustainability activities that must be taken on universities. Managing sustainability in a university would be facilitated if the procedure used to implement sustainability is aligned with the tool used that assesses its performance. Originality/value – The paper presents an updated review of the efforts that universities have made in contributing to a sustainable development. It includes methods and tools used to manage sustainability within a university, including the ones used to implement, assess and report it. The paper also intends to highlight the need of consistency and coherence between the implementation method and the assessment and report tools.
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Di Spirito, Federica, Vincent J. Iacono, Iandolo Alfredo, Amato Alessandra, Ludovico Sbordone, and Antonio Lanza. "Evidence-based Recommendations on Periodontal Practice and the Management of Periodontal Patients During and After the COVID-19 Era: Challenging Infectious Diseases Spread by Airborne Transmission." Open Dentistry Journal 15, no. 1 (August 24, 2021): 325–36. http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1874210602115010325.
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Background: Periodontal care, which was completely suspended during the peak of the SARS-Cov-2 pandemic and was delayed and recurrently discontinued during the succeeding waves, must be safely provided in the COVID-19 era. Objectives: The study aimed to provide recommendations on periodontal practice, optimizing safety, ergonomics, and economic resources, and the management of periodontal patients, ensuring continuity, timing, and effectiveness of periodontal care in the COVID-19 era. Methods: Reported protocols for the dental practice in the context of the COVID-19 and current evidence on periodontitis treatment and prevention were reviewed. Results: Evidence-based recommendations on contamination control and ergonomic improvements for periodontal practice and the management of periodontal patients challenging COVID-19 and airborne infectious diseases have been provided. Conclusion: Due to the economic, ergonomic, and ethical concerns raised by limited periodontal care due to the SARS-Cov-2 pandemic, and awareness of other emerging airborne transmitted infections, the periodontal practice should integrate measures minimizing airborne cross-infections and optimizing time-space and economic resources. The management of periodontal patients in the COVID-19 era should comprise less complex treatments and more comprehensive and definitive approaches, reducing emergencies, session length and number, and, concurrently, extending the recall and maintenance intervals. Moreover, it should implement prevention strategies through teledentistry tools and apps, improving periodontal awareness and self-care, and also through the self-reporting of periodontitis and periodontal risk assessment tools, performing both “population-based” and “high-risk” surveillance of periodontitis. Finally, it should enhance inter-professional collaboration, through telehealth networks, especially targeting subjects at high-risk of both periodontitis and systemic disorders, each of the two variously linked to COVID-19 onset and worsening.
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McLaughlin, Anne Collins, Patricia R. DeLucia, Frank A. Drews, Monifa Vaughn-Cooke, Anil Kumar, Robert R. Nesbitt, and Kevin Cluff. "Evaluating Medical Devices Remotely: Current Methods and Potential Innovations." Human Factors: The Journal of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 62, no. 7 (September 22, 2020): 1041–60. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0018720820953644.
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Objective We present examples of laboratory and remote studies, with a focus on studies appropriate for medical device design and evaluation. From this review and description of extant options for remote testing, we provide methods and tools to achieve research goals remotely. Background The FDA mandates human factors evaluation of medical devices. Studies show similarities and differences in results collected in laboratories compared to data collected remotely in non-laboratory settings. Remote studies show promise, though many of these are behavioral studies related to cognitive or experimental psychology. Remote usability studies are rare but increasing, as technologies allow for synchronous and asynchronous data collection. Method We reviewed methods of remote evaluation of medical devices, from testing labels and instruction to usability testing and simulated use. Each method was coded for the attributes (e.g., supported media) that need consideration in usability studies. Results We present examples of how published usability studies of medical devices could be moved to remote data collection. We also present novel systems for creating such tests, such as the use of 3D printed or virtual prototypes. Finally, we advise on targeted participant recruitment. Conclusion Remote testing will bring opportunities and challenges to the field of medical device testing. Current methods are adequate for most purposes, excepting the validation of Class III devices. Application The tools we provide enable the remote evaluation of medical devices. Evaluations have specific research goals, and our framework of attributes helps to select or combine tools for valid testing of medical devices.
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Cao, Bin, and Xiao Mei Shang. "Analysis and Optimization of the Body Measurement Program Supporting the Clothing Ergonomics." Advanced Materials Research 796 (September 2013): 443–46. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.796.443.
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The manual body measurement method is one of the main methods for clothing enterprises to collect the body measure data for garment at present. Because there are some problems in the current measurement method, for instance, the less consideration in the clothing Ergonomics, low efficiency and poor accuracy of the data, the adjustment of the measurement process is systematical proposed, respectively from the aspects of the measurement environment, the friendliness to the measured people, the measurers' workload and the rationality of the measurement parts. And the different measurement processes' applicability in various uses is analysed. The pre-measurement, measurement and post-measurement' environment is improved. Concerning the mental endurance of the measured people, their times of changing positions during the measurement is reduced. The times of the measurers and the tools' move during the measurement is minimized. The shared points' use of the different measurement parts is adjusted. The emphasis of this paper is to prove the measurement methods in the different uses through the time and the data obtained from the experiments of the optimized measurement methods, and gives an adaptive analysis of the amended methods to achieve the purpose of optimizing the corresponding applications.
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Bartkowiak, Grażyna, Iwona Frydrych, and Agnieszka Greszta. "Fabric Selection for the Reference Clothing Destined for Ergonomics Test of Protective Clothing: Physiological Comfort Point of View." Autex Research Journal 16, no. 4 (December 1, 2016): 256–61. http://dx.doi.org/10.1515/aut-2016-0037.
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Abstract The currently used methods of ergonomic assessment of protective clothing depend on the subjective feeling of research participants and don’t take into consideration all aspects of its use. Therefore, more amount of work is undertaken toward the development of new research tools for the ergonomic assessment of protective clothing. Research was carried out at the Central Institute for Labour Protection – National Research Institute in Lodz. A new methodology will take into consideration a variant of reference clothing, which is related to the results of ergonomics research of protective clothing. Preparation of the reference clothing initiated by picking the appropriate fabric is based on the results of parameters influencing the physiological comfort and sensorial comfort. In the current part, results of different fabric parameters are presented, which are related to physiological comfort, i.e., the thermal resistance, water vapor resistance, hygroscopicity, and air permeability. In the next part of research, we will focus on the parameters related to objective sensorial feelings, i.e., total hand value and its components. Seven fabrics, including six cotton/polyester fabrics, diverse in terms of constituent fiber content and structure parameters (weave, thread density per 1 dm, thread linear density, mass per square meter, thickness), and Tencel/polyester fabric were tested. The best in terms of thermal resistance, water vapor resistance, and air permeability was the cotton/polyester fabric (35% cotton/65% PES) with the smallest mass per square meter. This fabric also exhibits the high hygroscopicity of 7.5%, which puts it into the fourth position.
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Brito, M., A. L. Ramos, P. Carneiro, and M. A. Gonçalves. "Integration of lean manufacturing and ergonomics in a metallurgical industry." International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Safety 2, no. 2 (October 3, 2018): 21–31. http://dx.doi.org/10.24840/2184-0954_002.002_0003.
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Striving to improve productivity, industries have used different management approaches, being lean manufacturing the most used over recent years. Lean manufacturing is based on value creation for the customer and elimination of waste that occurs during the production process, while improving working conditions. The incorporation of ergonomic aspects in the workstation design also contributes for the referred objectives, since it will reduce awkward postures or excessive effort during work, leading to better working conditions and increased productivity. The present study highlights, through a case study in four production areas of a metallurgical industry, the benefits of using an integrated operations management approach to improve productivity and ergonomic aspects. Several ergonomic methods, such as Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), Strain Index (SI), and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), were chosen to evaluate the ergonomic situation and lean manufacturing tools such as Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and 7 wastes were also used to analyze the systems and increase the productivity by eliminating several wastes. The results of this study show that it is possible, and desirable, to consider both aspects, ergonomic conditions and productivity, during continuous improvement’ implementations. In fact, the improvements reached through the advances in ergonomic conditions can contribute very positively for productivity increasing.
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Е, Вин Тун, Vin Tun E, Л. Маркин, and Leonid Markin. "Ensuring the Requirements of Ergonomics in the Automated the Layout of Equipment." Geometry & Graphics 7, no. 3 (December 2, 2019): 70–85. http://dx.doi.org/10.12737/article_5dce6e5ed88c68.81465629.
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The article discusses the solution to the problem of automating the design of layouts of various equipment, taking into account ergonomics, by which is meant the provision of service areas. The article describes the development of methods and algorithms that provide access to installation tools and workspace during installation and maintenance of already placed equipment. The solution method is geometric modeling of both the placed objects and the installation equipment necessary for its maintenance, as well as the trajectory of its movement to the service area. Thus, both the installation equipment and the movement paths are treated as composable objects, the intersection of which with other objects is unacceptable. As a modeling method, receptor-based geometric models that discretize the allocation space were used. The choice of receptor models is due to the fact that the solid-state model of all the instantaneous positions of the installation tool in the process of its delivery and operation is extremely complex from a geometrical point of view. The possibility of relatively easy to determine the fact of the intersection of all objects of the scene, described by receptor models, and is the rationale for the choice in our study of the receptor method of geometric modeling. Based on the receptor design model, a procedure has been developed for determining the trajectory of a mounting tool at a given operating point, as well as the formation of the space required for operation, or establishing the fact that it is impossible to service a particular object, which indicates an unsatisfactory (non-ergonomic) given design solution. In this study a feature of using receptor models is the use of 6-digit codes in the receptor matrices, which, with some complication of the modeling method, allows to obtain additional information about problem areas in the layout under study (impossibility of carrying a tool, impossibility of performing assembly operations, etc.). Algorithms for solving this problem, as well as a graphical shell that visualizes the results of computer-aided design, are implemented as C# programs.
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Appel‐Meulenbroek, Rianne, and Ben Feijts. "CRE effects on organizational performance: measurement tools for management." Journal of Corporate Real Estate 9, no. 4 (November 6, 2007): 218–38. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/14630010710848467.
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PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify potential measures for corporate real estate (CRE) aspects to correlate them with organizational performance. These measures must simplify discussion between corporate real estate management (CREM), architects and users, and help CREM to claim its place at the strategic decision‐making table.Design/methodology/approachAn analysis is made of literature in relevant fields (e.g. CREM, architecture, ergonomics and installation technology) to identify aspects that influence performance. For the ones that lacked clear measures, a solution was deducted from other fields of study (environmental psychology, geography, urban design). These new measures are applied to two existing office buildings to show their relevance and usability, followed by a discussion on how to use them as a CRE manager.FindingsIn total, 51 CRE aspects affect organizational performance. Particularly, the structural aspects are not quantified or measured in consistent ways, like “open layout” and “visibility”. Methods from the field of spatial network analysis show very promising possibilities for quantifying these configuration related aspects. Also, it does not appear to be very difficult for CREM to start using these methods.Originality/valueThe spatial network analysis methods that are described and applied in this paper, have not been subject of an article in any (corporate) real estate‐related journal yet. Up till now, this field of research appears to take place in a totally different community of academics and practitioners. Hopefully, this paper will make CREM aware of these methods and encourage them to use them.