Simulation of ergonomic interventions in color spray station with CATIA software - Case study

The most logical decision when making a device is to apply the principles of ergonomics in the design stage. One of the main goals of computer application in ergonomics is to develop a tool that allows the product to be evaluated at the beginning of the design process.

The study was conducted at a paint spraying unit at a home appliance factory. Then, the digital model of the posture was simulated in CATIA software with the most deviation from the normal state. After evaluation by Rola method, biomechanical analysis was performed on the human model. Finally, according to the results of RULLA, ergonomic interventions were performed in the software and the new workstation was re-evaluated. The study also looked at a personchr('39')s biomechanical status, such as the loads on the spine, the force and torque applied to the mannequin joints during color spraying.

The final score of the color spray posture evaluation showed that it is at the level of corrective measures 4 and immediate changes are needed. In this posture, the position of the forearm, muscles, wrists and arms, legs, upper body and neck was inappropriate. Proposed interventions included seat design and weight adjustment of the spray gun.

The results showed that by focusing on the organs under pressure and presenting an ergonomic design with the aim of reducing the pressure with CATIA software, musculoskeletal problems can be significantly solved.