Ergonomics evaluation of a foam rubber grip for tool handles

✍ Scribed by G.L. Fellows; A. Freivalds

• Publisher: Elsevier Science
• Year: 1991
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 460 KB
• Volume: 22
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0003-6870
• DOI: 10.1016/0003-6870(91)90225-7

✦ Synopsis

An important consideration in tool design is the avoidance of hand discomfort and a reduction of work efficiency by using proper grip designs. To measure grip force distribution on a tool handle, Force Sensing Resistors were calibrated, placed on two different types of grip (wood and foam) and interfaced to a personal computer. The results, using six common garden tools -loppers, hedge shears, shovels, leaf rakes, hoes, garden rakes -indicated a very uneven distribution in grip force, but with the foam grip providing a more uniform distribution. Unfortunately, in most cases, the tool grip force was greater for the foam grip due to the deformation of the foam and a 'loss of control' feeling in the subjects. However, most subjects strongly preferred the foam grips.