A biomechanical approach for evaluating motion related discomfort: Illustration by an application to pedal clutching movement

Abstract

In this paper, a motion related discomfort modelling approach based on the concept of "less constraint movement" has been proposed and illustrated by a case study of clutching pedal movements. Using a multi-adjustable car mock-up, 6 existing pedal configurations were tested by 20 subjects (5 young and 5 older males, 5 young and older females) and compared with those freely adjusted pedal positions, called 'less constraint' configurations. From questionnaire and motion analysis of the experimental data, it was observed that pedal resistance had a dominant effect on discomfort perception. The pedal position adjustment seemed to mainly reduce the discomfort at the beginning of travel. The ergonomic criterion for pedal design should therefore take into account two main factors: 1/ pedal resistance, 2/ a good trade-off between pedal position at the beginning of travel and its end position. The movements corresponding to less constraint configurations will be used as reference data for defining ergonomic criterion. In particular, The focus should be put on the hip, knee and ankle joint torques at the end of travel and the joint angles at the beginning and end of pedal travel. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.