The Mechanical Impedance of the Human Body in Sitting and Standing Position at Low Frequencies

Abstract

The theory of the mechanical impedance of systems with one or more degrees of freedom is applied to the human body. A method of measuring mechanical impedance and determining the parameters of the vibrating systems is developed. Impedance curves for longitudinal vibrations of a sitting and standing subject are established for the frequency range of 1 to 20 c/s. The influence of varied posture and restraining systems is investigated. Dynamic movements of body parts are measured, directly or indirectly, and compared with the impedance curves. The responsible elements in the body for the apparent resonances are identified. Correlations between the impedance function of the body and the subjective tolerance curve to vibration are found and the reasons for the tolerance limits are elucidated. The variability of subjective tolerances due to varying posture, restraining systems, cushions, duration of exposure and vibrations are discussed, and conclusions for the development of protective devices are drawn. The correlation between the steady state response of the human body system and the effects of impact is discussed.