A New Materials Handling System to Prevent Back Injuries

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9322807 Kazerooni This research investigates the use of extenders to support material handling functions in situations where weight lifting by workers is involved. Extenders are computer-controlled material handling device that are worn by workers to maneuver loads in work places to minimize the weight intensity and exaction level felt by the worker. It is hypothesized that these devices, when worn by workers to maneuver loads, do prevent back injuries. The research includes the analysis of maneuvers needed to lift, move, and transfer loads, quantify the performance of extenders in terms of workers, physiological characteristics, design a lightweight electromagnetic actuator that behaves like Hill's model of extenders, and develop adaptive control rules which will prevent human induced instability in the presence of variation in human arm dynamics. This research focuses on providing a solution to a real and practical problem that is felt in various sectors of our economy. If the research goals are realized, the outcome will have a significant impact on cost savings, especially in those industrial segments of the economy in which significant weight lifting by workers is involved. Annual cost and losses in productivity due to back injury cases in industry is staggering. This research does offer some potential to minimize these losses and improve employees' working conditions and morale.