Graduation Year
2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree
M.S.P.H.
Degree Name
MS in Public Health (M.S.P.H.)
Degree Granting Department
Public Health
Major Professor
Thomas E. Bernard, Ph.D.
Committee Member
Rene' Salazar, Ph.D.
Committee Member
Luis Pieretti, Ph.D.
Keywords
devices, ergonomics, haptics, interventions, musculoskeletal disorders
Abstract
The purpose of this thesis was to evaluate the effectiveness and sustainability of a haptic-based intervention designed to reduce hand motions and, consequently, the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among operators in a manufacturing facility. The intervention involved using ergonomic gloves equipped with haptic feedback, intended to encourage proper hand motion and reduce unnecessary movements.
Over a six-month period, data was collected from operators wearing the haptic gloves, focusing on two key metrics: Duty Cycle and Motion Rate. These metrics were chosen to normalize the data, accounting for the variability in duration for each individual operator who wore the device. The study initially aimed to track usage and effectiveness over the entire period but was ultimately constrained to the first three months due to significant drops in device usage and data reliability in the latter half.
The analysis of the first three months indicated a positive downward trend in both Duty Cycle and Motion Rate, suggesting that the intervention helped reduce unnecessary hand motions. Participation in the intervention was strong initially but declined in the following months, influenced by factors such as holiday periods and technical issues with data recording.
While the initial findings are promising, demonstrating potential benefits in reducing hand motions and improving ergonomic safety, the short observation period and subsequent decline in device usage highlight significant limitations. To confirm the long-term effectiveness and sustainability of the intervention, future research should focus on extended observation periods, consistent device usage, and comprehensive data collection, including baseline productivity and injury rates. Addressing these gaps will be essential for fully understanding and validating the long-term impact of the haptic-based intervention on workplace safety and productivity.
Scholar Commons Citation
McDonald, Chase, "An Assessment of a Haptic-Based Ergonomic Intervention At an Aerospace Manufacturing Facility" (2024). USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/etd/10535
