Computer Aided Ergonomics Through Parametric Biomechanical Simulation

Abstract

Computer aided ergonomics and particularly biomechanical simulations hold high potential for the implementation of the virtual product development paradigm in the field of human-centric design. Unfortunately, the relation between efforts to be invested to the insights gained by musculoskeletal simulations is still not sufficient for a widespread industrial application. This contribution shows how parametric biomechanical simulations can be used to gain specific indications on how interaction points of human-centric products are to be designed to meet the competencies of a given target user. This is demonstrated using cycling and rowing as two exemplary activities involving the entire human body. These activities are empirically well studied and electromyographic as well as force measurements are available. The comparison of the biomechanical simulations to the real-world scenario permits the validation of the proposed parametric approach as well as the applied models. This is a prerequisite for its application along the product engineering process.