Date of Award
4-1994
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Industrial and Entrepreneurial Engineering and Engineering Management
Department
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
First Advisor
Dr. Robert Wygant
Second Advisor
Dr. Richard Musterman
Third Advisor
Dr. Bob White
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
A furniture company in West Michigan proposed an evaluation of a new fixture that will be used in a repetitive manual stapling operation.
Numerous studies reveal that activities involving repetitive wrist motions cause inflammation in the median nerve that runs through the structure of the carpal wrist, causing a cumulative disorder known as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). This syndrome is one of the most prevalent in industrial settings and service companies.
This study investigated if the use of a new design of a fixture had an impact on operators' performances. Three-dimensional comparative analysis was used to observe operators' wrist angular motions while stapling and using new and current fixtures. In addition, muscular strength and time involved in the particular task were analyzed.
Benefits identified through this study can be realized not only by the workers, but also by the employer.
Recommended Citation
Roa, Maria Luisa, "An Ergonomics Approach to Evaluate the Use of Two Different Fixtures for Upholstering" (1994). Masters Theses. 4809.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/4809