The usability and ergonomics of axes

The effects of tool handle shape on hand performance, usability and discomfort using masons' trowels

“…The results of several hand tool evaluation studies which evaluated the effect of tool handles with relatively similar shapes such as files and screwdrivers on hand grip strength (Hsu and Chen, 2000;Kong et al, 2008), or of different types of axe handles on usability (P€ aivinen and Heinimaa, 2009) are in agreement with our findings. Working with these tools with one handle involves to some extent hand grip exertions and manipulation of the task/tool, and therefore these findings suggest that careful design of the tool handle shape is essential in order to improve the grip performance and usability of such single-handle tools.…”

“…comfort/ discomfort, preference, satisfaction, usability, ease of manipulation, etc.) (Strasser et al, 1996;Freund et al, 2000;Groenesteijn et al, 2004;Li, 2003;Kuijt-Evers et al, 2007;P€ aivinen and Heinimaa, 2009). However, there are limited and contradictory findings about the relationship between objective and subjective measures in evaluating hand tools with some studies showing positive correlation (Strasser et al, 1996;Li, 2003;P€ aivinen and Heinimaa, 2009), while others show no correlation (Freund et al, 2000;Kuijt-Evers et al, 2007).…”

“…Moreover, by improving the quality and usability of hand tools it is possible to improve efficiency and work productivity (Kuijt-Evers et al, 2007;P€ aivinen and Heinimaa, 2009). The design of tool handle, which interfaces with the human hand, is of major importance in this regard (Das, 2007).…”

“…Moreover, the combination of both objective and subjective evaluations enables the identification of new design factors in terms of the tool geometry parameters (P€ aivinen and Heinimaa, 2009). A number of hand tool evaluation studies have considered objective measurements (e.g.…”

Assessment of ergonomically designed handle shapes for low-frequency vibration responses

“…The objective and subjective measurements were performed to investigate the effect of the design of handles on vibration transmissibility and comfort rating. 22,23 In the present study, the vibrations were reduced by improving the handle design. The vibration transmission to the hand-arm system was found to be least in handle B (considering the anatomical shape) and providing better performance on the basis of subjective comfort rating.…”