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Abstract
A computational method for estimating the functional reach envelopes for standing postures using Digital Human Model (DHM) is presented. A DHM that embodies a static-stability model based on Functional Stability Region (FSR), a biomechanics based postural effort model, and uses non-linear programming for predicting reach is first described. The model was used for computing 3D partial reach surfaces for different standing reach strategies such as one-leg standing and two-leg standing with varying foot positions. Experiments were conducted to study the reach characteristics of the considered cases and the data was qualitatively compared with the predicted results. The model was able to appreciably capture the variation in reachability due to different strategies. After this, a parametric analysis on the dependence and sensitivity of maximum reach to limits on stability, postural effort and hand-held load is presented. Through this analysis, it is shown that maximum reach is a function of both stability and effort limits, while the influence of effort was particularly strong for low height targets. In this work, we highlight the challenges in modelling functional reach for standing posture as well as present useful insights on the characteristics of standing reach.
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No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.
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Notes on contributors
K. Eazhil Selvan
K. Eazhil Selvan is currently a PhD student at the Centre for Product Design and Manufacturing, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore (India). He holds a Masters in Design (M.Des) in Product Design and Engineering, from Indian Institute of Science (2014). He received his B.Tech. in Production Engineering from National Institute of Technology, Trichy (India) in 2012. His research interests include Ergonomics, Digital Human Modelling and Computer Aided Design.
Dibakar Sen
Dibakar Sen is a professor at the Centre for Product Design and Manufacturing and Department of Mechanical Engineering at Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India. He received his BE from REC Durgapur (India) in 1989 and MSc (Engg.) and PhD from Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore (India) in 1992 and 1997, respectively, all in Mechanical Engineering. His research interests include Digital Human Modelling, computerised anthropometry, product design, mechanism design, assembly analysis, ergonomics using VR, applied haptics and direct 3D sketching. He is member of ISE, AMM, INSARM, PG15 of BIS, IAAT India, Digital Human Modelling committee of Standards Australia and Design Society.