Abstract
The coupling between the hands and cylindrical handles was studied using simple gripping tasks and vector force measurements. Load transfer and twisting tasks were performed using bare aluminum handles and handles covered with a high friction material. Both tasks were performed using dry and oil saturated handles for three loads. Twelve subjects (6 males and 6 females) participated. Load and surface friction were changed to alter shearing and compression force requirements, which significantly affected grip force magnitude (p<.001). The transverse plane force vector angle did not change for the lifting task (p >.01), but significantly changed with torque and friction for the twisting task (p <.01). The total resolved force vector acting on the hand was measured and the associated biomechanical loading of finger flexor tendons was estimated. Estimates of tendon tension were also made for grip strength vector force data for 61 employees grasping five cylinder diameters. Estimated flexor tendon forces monotonically increased with increasing handle diameter while grip force magnitude declined for the largest handle diameters. Design of a new dynamometer is also described.
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