Ergonomic Validation through Interactive Mixed Reality Support

In this paper a software tool which integrates Augmented Reality environment for real-time simulations and a commercial CAD tool for Ergonomics Design & Analysis is described. The most important objective of this research is the addition of living “human factors” inside a computer-based simulation, which several authors use to call “man-in-the-loop”. The software interface is called ErgoMR (Ergonomic Mixed Reality) and it is split in two separated stages: an off-line simulation and a real-time computer assisted session. This tool analyses and verifies virtual human movements, needed to perform specific tasks, in a 3D environment replicating the workplace. Thus, many tests of procedure installation may be conducted. Furthermore, NIOSH equations, based on standard human activity analysis schemes, allow the trajectory of the operator’s hand to be optimized by measuring the effects of lifting/lowering, pushing/pulling and carrying movements. In addition, powerful collision detection algorithms within the virtual environment help the entire process by detecting the best layout and avoiding time-consuming human movements. Once identified the optimum hand trajectory, data is transferred to the visualization routines for the real-time simulation, where a mixed reality equipment helps the operator following the pre-calculated optimal trajectory.