Ergonomic Evaluation of a Walking Type Power Operated Maize Stalk Harvester

Abstract

Background: Ergonomics is a science that focuses its study on improved design as a remedial measure to fatigue and discomfort in humans. Its objective is to optimize health, safety and productivity. Methods: In the current study, an ergonomic evaluation of walking type power operated maize stalk harvester was done with traditional system. Result: It was observed that the average working heart rate, working oxygen consumption rate, ODR, BPDS and, REBA score was 93.3 beats/min, 0.582 litre/min, 1.1 (uncomfortable), 23.5, 5.3 (medium risk) respectively. The working angles of different body parts like trunk, neck, leg, upper arm, lower arm and wrist were studied and are 9.1o, 7.3o, 41.8o, 23.6o, 48.2o and 7.9o for developed prototype respectively.