振動触覚・スライド圧迫型ハプティックフィードバックデバイスによる四肢姿勢調整の性能比較
Performance Analysis of Vibrotactile and Slide-and-Squeeze Haptic Feedback Devices for Limbs Postural Adjustment
作業者の姿勢矯正のため、振動型デバイスErgoTacとスライド圧迫型CUFFを肩・膝の単関節および多関節ガイダンスで比較評価し、肩にはErgoTac、膝にはCUFFが適することを示した。
著者: Marta Lorenzini, Simone Ciotti, Juan M. Gandarias, Simone Fani, Matteo Bianchi, Arash Ajoudani
分類: cs.RO, cs.HC
原文アブストラクト
Recurrent or sustained awkward body postures are among the most frequently cited risk factors to the development of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). To prevent workers from adopting harmful configurations but also to guide them toward more ergonomic ones, wearable haptic devices may be the ideal solution. In this paper, a vibrotactile unit, called ErgoTac, and a slide-and-squeeze unit, called CUFF, were evaluated in a limbs postural correction setting. Their capability of providing single-joint (shoulder or knee) and multi-joint (shoulder and knee at once) guidance was compared in twelve healthy subjects, using quantitative task-related metrics and subjective quantitative evaluation. An integrated environment was also built to ease communication and data sharing between the involved sensor and feedback systems. Results show good acceptability and intuitiveness for both devices. ErgoTac appeared as the suitable feedback device for the shoulder, while the CUFF may be the effective solution for the knee. This comparative study, although preliminary, was propaedeutic to the potential integration of the two devices for effective whole-body postural corrections, with the aim to develop a feedback and assistive apparatus to increase workers' awareness about risky working conditions and therefore to prevent MSDs.
