The Use of Force Sensing Resistors in Ergonomic Tool Design

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
With more leisure time and greater reliance on the fix-it-yourself approach, more and more people, will be using hand tools. The proper ergonomic design, as related to grip force exerted and fatigue generated, is an important consideration for these tools. To measure grip force distribution, Force Sensing Resistors were calibrated appropriately, placed on two different grip type (wood and foam) and interfaced to a personal computer. Results of a lopping task, indicated a very uneven distribution in grip pressure. In all cases, grip force decreased with time while forearm flexor muscle EMG increased with time, indicating fatigue buildup. Forearm EMG for the foam grip was significantly lower than for the wooden grip. Most subjects also strongly preferred the foam grip.

This publication has 6 references indexed in Scilit: