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Effectiveness and Usability of a Trunk Posture Feedback System: An Exploratory, Longitudinal Field Study
DescriptionWearable sensors are recognized for their potential to enhance worker health, but field-based evidence of their effectiveness remains limited. We investigated a commercial, IMU-based postural feedback system in vehicle assembly environment. Eight workers wore sensors providing auditory and vibrotactile feedback for excessive trunk bending and twisting during their regular 10-hour shifts for 10 consecutive days. Initial results showed a significant reduction in “poor” postures on the first day of feedback, with excessive bending decreasing by 46.7% and twisting by 26.3%. However, these benefits diminished over the study period, suggesting a novelty effect wherein the initial impact lessened as participants adapted to the system. Participants reported high initial satisfaction, which declined over time, likely due to inconsistencies in feedback and physical discomfort from the sensor. Despite initial positive outcomes, the system effectiveness varied among participants, highlighting the need for improved design to sustain behavioral change and enhance user experience over time.
Event Type
Lecture
TimeWednesday, September 11th11:35am - 11:55am MST
LocationFLW Salon H
Tracks
Occupational Ergonomics
Topics
DEI