A Comparison of Processing Time and Strike Position Between Experts and Non-experts of Sheet-Metal Repair

Repairing a car is a constantly evolving process. Such a task is individualized and is performed using hand. Analyzing the processing behavior of car repair experts can play an important role in improving the training procedure for craftspeople in this field. The goal of this study is to develop a learning system for car mechanics by examining the techniques used by craftspeople. In this study, the striking motion of an expert’s hammer during the sheet-metal molding process in an automobile repairing process was analyzed and compared with those of non-experts. As the first step, the study attempted to examine the characteristic motions of experts performing such a task. Using a three-dimensional digital motion analysis equipment, we measured the movement of skilled and unskilled individuals while repairing cars by using the sheet metal molding process. The results showed that the total time spent for ‘hammering,’ ‘others,’ and ‘total work time’ by the experts was significantly shorter compared to the time spent by non-experts. Furthermore, experts were able to complete the task with one hammer. Additionally, experts used a lower number of strikes compared to non-experts as the hammering time increased.