Automated Ergonomic Risk Assessment Based on 3D Visualization

Conventional ergonomic risk assessment of physical work is conducted through observation and direct/indirect physiological measurements. However, these methods are time-consuming and require human subjects to actually perform the motion in order to obtain detailed body movement data. 3D visualization, alternatively, allows users to simulate an operational task on the computer screen, a process that is less time-consuming and which eliminates the need for costly on-site devices, as well as the detrimental effect of human error during experimentation. It can also proactively visualize a proposed design prior to implementation in the real world. This paper presents an automated ergonomic risk assessment framework based on 3D modelling with the support of a user-friendly interface for data-post processing. 3ds Max is utilized together with its built-in MAXScript. The presented system enables the automation of body motion risk identification by detecting awkward body postures, evaluating the handled force/load and frequency that cause ergonomic risk during body movements of workers. As the outcome, it provides detailed risk scores for body segments, such that users are able to review the continuous motion and corresponding risk by precise time frame. The capability of this 3D visualization-based ergonomic risk assessment can be extended to support the re-design of the workplace and optimization of human body movement accordingly. The ultimate goal of this study is to proactively mitigate ergonomic risk and further reduce potential injuries and workers’ compensation insurance costs in the long term.