Surface Pressure in the Hand When Holding a Drilling-Machine under Different Drilling Conditions

Abstract

Six male and six female subjects performed simulated drilling tasks using an ordinary impact drilling-machine. Meanwhile the pressure on the hand was measured in 16 points. The influence on the pressure distribution and the total pressure level from changes in feed force, working direction, vibration level, balance, number of handles, gloves, handle material and handle width, was studied. The results showed that the pressure was in all situations highest on the web between the index finger and the thumb. The pressure on this part of the hand increased with increasing feed force and also with increasing handle size. The total pressure level increased, as expected, with increasing feed force compared with the reference sessions. Using a supporting handle, gloves or softer handle material decreased the total pressure level. Working direction, vibrations, balance and handle width, however, did not influence the total pressure level.