A 3-Step Approach for Introducing Computer-Aided Ergonomics Analysis Methodologies

The first step of the methodology focuses on air traffic controllers situated at a workstation within an Air Traffic Control (ATC) room. The 3D CAD software RAMSIS uses manikins to represent subjects under study. Using this software, three air traffic controllers of different heights were added. The three air traffic controllers were modeled sitting at their workstation in different positions while doing typical on-shift duties, including reaching for a phone and looking at each of the three monitors at their workstation. The Joint Capacity analysis tool in RAMSIS was used to study which joints face the most discomfort on each air traffic controller. It was found that the hip joints and the shoulder joints unanimously faced the highest amount of fatigue in this setting. Suggested modifications to the control room include adjustable desks, monitors, and chairs so that different air traffic controllers can be accommodated. Potential discomfort for air traffic controllers facing ergonomic issues on the job can create vulnerabilities that extend to the public. In second step, an analysis tool is introduced for analyzing the obstruction on the window caused by computer monitors in the Air Traffic Control room. Obstruction analysis was done to investigate the need for a reorganized workspace considering the user’s need to see out the window to perform their job tasks and to decrease the need for repetitive standing to see out the window. It was found that approximately 40% of the window is obscured by the monitors and therefore the monitor configuration should be changed. The projected change to a three-in-a-row monitor setup decreased the obstruction to the window and therefore improved the ergonomic setup of the workstation. In step 3, a RAMSIS simulation and analysis of the forklift blind spots helps provide improved safety for the forklift operation. A camera system with two different view angles is added to aid the forklift operator. Analysis leads to conclusions that using the camera system eliminates the forklift blind spot and allows for safer forklift operation.