Evaluation of Powered Screwdriver Design Characteristics

Abstract

This study investigated the physical characteristics of powered screwdrivers that affect the operator's productivity, occupational health, and quality of working life. The study was divided into two phases. The first phase evaluated the effect of grip diameter on the effort required to use the tool. The second phase evaluated two devices that can be attached to the tool and are intended to reduce operator effort and the potential for injury. The results illustrated that the diameter of the grip has an influence on the operator. The recommendations are counter to the common assumption made by industrial tool engineers that smaller tools are easier on the user. The results of the second phase illustrated that the tool attachments have merit with respect to the reduction of operator effort. The conclusions are important for both designers and users of powered tools.

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