Effects of body height, notebook computer size, and workstation height on recommended adjustments for proper work posture when operating a notebook computer (original) (raw)
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2000
This paper discusses two algorithms for recommending notebook computer (NBC) and workstation adjustments so that the user can assume an ergonomic seated posture during NBC operation. Required input data are the user's anthropometric data and physical dimensions of the NBC and the workstation. The first algorithm is based on an assumption that there are no workstation constraints while the second
Ergonomics and the standing desk
Work-a Journal of Prevention Assessment & Rehabilitation, 2018
There has been a recent trend in the integration of sit-stand option desks in the work place. Fear-based advertising insinuating that sitting is the health equivalent of smoking has pervaded many work environments. As workers want to remain healthy and pain free, and employers want and need a healthy workforce, it appears that there is a pervasive trend of avoiding sitting as often as possible. Because work tasks that call for an extensive amount of sitting are often times computer-based, this 'standing is healthy' fad is most notably presenting itself at computer-based work stations. The understandably perceived simple fix to the dilemma of sitting, has been the introduction of the sit-stand desk. However, before we all throw out our chairs, it is important to discuss the past and recent research that indicates that prolonged standing can also have detrimental effects on the human system. It is crucial that we expand our idea of a healthy work environment to one that facilitates movement and change in position and empowers the worker to understand their role in their own musculoskeletal and physiological health and wellness, beyond the use of equipment. If we can replace the phrase, 'sitting is the new smoking' with the phrase, 'sedentary is the new smoking', then we can elucidate the idea of what a healthy computer-based work environment and routine would be.
Applied Ergonomics, 2019
Sit-stand tables are introduced in offices to increase variation in gross body posture, but the extent to which upper body posture variation is also affected has not previously been addressed. Neck, trunk, and upper arm postures (means and minute-to-minute variances) were determined during periods of sitting and standing from 24 office workers using sit-stand tables to perform computer work. Posture variability resulting from different temporal compositions of sitting and standing computer work was then predicted for the neck, trunk and upper arm by simulations. Postural variability during computer work could be increased up to threefold when 20-60% of the work was performed standing (i.e. 40-80% performed sitting), compared to performing computer work only sitting. The exact composition of sit-stand proportions leading to maximum variability, as well as the potential size of the increase in variability, differed considerably between workers. Guidelines for sit-stand table use should note these large inter-individual differences.
Ergonomics for Desk Job Workers - An Overview
International Journal of Health Sciences and Research, 2019
The present paper aims to illustrate the overview of improper designed workstations leading to consequences of vision and postures at work. The objective of this paper is discuss about the possible problems, theirs effects on various body parts, proper positioning and how to design the ergonomically fit workstation for desk job workers.
Design of an Ergonomic Computer Desk
In the present article design of a different angle to the monitor screen in respect to desk is prescribed. The angle is much lower than what is practical with the bulky terminals, due to the design limitations of which instinctively and compulsorily make user eyes to be kept unnaturally upward, and the head in uncomfortably backward tilted position, when viewing the screen. Our design facilitates natural positioning of the user body organs at screen front. Other important feature of our design is that user arms do also operate in a more normal height, at a lower continuous step integrated with the desk, when working with mouse and keyboard. Carpal tunnel syndrome seems to be alleviated in this way, but not totally removed. The step height also provides other necessary compartmentalization features, which is missing in most desk designs today.
Characterization of posture and comfort in laptop users in non-desk settings
Applied Ergonomics, 2012
Laptop computers may be used in a variety of postures not coupled to the office workstation. Using passive motion analysis, this study examined mean joint angles during a short typing/editing task in college students (n ¼ 20), in up to seven positions. Comfort was assessed after task execution through a body map. For three required postures, joint angles in a prone posture were different than those while seated at a couch with feet either on floor or on ottoman. Specifically, the prone posture was characterized by comparatively non-neutral shoulders, elbows and wrists, and pronounced neck extension. Significantly greater intensity and more regions of discomfort were marked for the prone posture than for the seated postures. It is recommended that the prone posture only be assumed briefly during laptop use. Exposure to laptops outside of the office setting should be assessed in future epidemiologic studies of musculoskeletal complaints and computer use.
Numerous office employees who work with computer workstations endure various musculoskeletal discomforts every day. This study intends to reduce musculoskeletal discomfort caused by desktop computer workstations, which causes productivity losses and several medical costs. A survey was distributed to 42 participants who use desktop computer workstations for at least 6 hours per day. Specific anthropometric measurements were collected to design an optimized computer workstation. Ten respondents were randomly selected to participate in an electromyogram (EMG) experiment to determine muscular impulse differences between standard and optimized desktop computer workstations. The EMG results indicated that discomforts are pronounced in shoulder, neck, lower and upper back and hand-wrist regions. The risk assessment model showed that experiencing troubles in the neck (p=0.022), shoulder (p=0.023), and wrist/hands (p=0.020) within 12 months were the significant factors. ANOVA results proved that the optimized design of a computer workstation causes less muscular pressure on the muscles at each measured body region.
PostureAdjuster: DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR ERGONOMIC NOTEBOOK COMPUTER OPERATIONS
This paper describes the design and development of PostureAdjuster, a decision support system to recommend necessary adjustments for an NBC and workstation so that the NBC user can assume a correct work posture during NBC operation. PostureAdjuster consists of databases, computing algorithms, and user-system interface. Body dimensions, NBC dimensions, NBC angles, NBC-body distance, workstation dimensions, and seat adjustability are the input data needed for computing the work posture. PostureAdjuster is able to compute current work posture based on the given data, and recommend ergonomic work postures both with and without workstation constraints. The computed results include body joint angles, viewing distance, incidence angle, NBC – body distance, NBC settings (and support), and workstation settings (and supports). A graphical display of body posture is also shown. The results can be shown on-screen and printed out as hardcopy.
The Effect of Ergonomic Worktools on Productivity In Today's Automated Workstation Design
As the primary tool in the office environment, the personal computer (PC) has enormous impact on organizational output. It is the focal point of office work today, directing most tasks. Out of this dependence on the computer for task accomplishment, have evolved changes in work habits and office routines. This is, to a large degree, a manifestation of the physiological demands that prolonged PC usage has on today's employees.