Development of ergonomic gun barrel cleaning method: Automation and its advantages

Abstract

The aims of this study were to assess postural risks associated with the current gun barrel cleaning method and to develop an ergonomic gun barrel cleaning method that could reduce such risks. The inner surfaces of gun barrels should be cleaned after use to maintain their firing function. The current method of cleaning gun barrels requires multiple soldiers to push and pull a long cleaning pole for 1–3 hr. Such motions require both hands to be raised to shoulder height. The current manual method and a newly designed automated method were compared in terms of safety and effectiveness. Postural risk assessments were performed using OWAS, RULA, and REBA. Results: The manual cleaning method involves the highest postural risk level (Action Category/Level 4), requiring immediate intervention, and exposes multiple soldiers to life‐threatening situations for a longer time during wartime. The postural risk associated with using the automated cleaning system was much lower (Action Category/Level 2). Once loaded into the gun barrel by a single soldier, the automated system takes approximately 20 min to complete cleaning. The automated cleaning method reduces musculoskeletal disorder risks associated with cleaning gun barrels and increases military power. The automated gun barrel cleaning method is an ergonomic solution that can be used for cleaning gun barrels within a short time without exposing soldiers to postural risks.

Ergonomic Risk Assessment in the Forest Products Industry

“…To minimize these risks and enhance work efficiency under ergonomic conditions, an adjustable assembly table was recommended [7]. Nam et al (2017) investigated the manual cleaning of residues such as gunpowder and mud from the barrel after firing heavy weapons like tanks and cannons in the armed forces.…”

“…Furthermore, prolonged standing resulted in discomfort in the lower back region. Recommendations included adjusting the height of workstations within the company, incorporating breaks and exercises to ensure continuity [8]. Yalçın and Ayvaz (2018) conducted an ergonomic risk assessment for workers operating on four different workstations in a wheel production factory.…”

An Overview of REBA Method Applications in the World

“…Furthermore, the use of ergonomic assessment methods is common in areas such as aircraft maintenance [103], electrical equipment manufacture [104], armament cleaning tasks [114], engine oil companies [118], various industrial sectors [105] and even in multitasking jobs [117].…”

Musculoskeletal Risks: RULA Bibliometric Review

“…The results indicated that the questionnaire was valid for assessing postural load on upper extremities. Nam et al [175] assessed the postural load on soldiers when cleaning cannons in two different ways: manually and with an automated tool. OWAS, RULA and REBA were applied.…”