A data collection methodology to perform DHMS-based ergonomic analysis of manufacturing tasks

A key stage in any simulation project is the data collection process. In most simulation-based ergonomic analysis, data from the movements performed by the operator during the task are obtained either by direct observation, video observation or by means of a Motion Capture (MoCap) System. Direct or video observation methods are quick and inexpensive, however less accurate and objective than commercial Mocap Systems. MoCap Systems are much more expensive and limited to the use in laboratories. The objective of this paper is to present a data collection methodology based on the joint employment of the per-pixel depth technology and a free open source video analysis software. The proposed system is portable, low-cost and suitable for fieldwork. A real case study is presented to explain how objective posture data of a user performing a task can be obtained and used for its workstation analysis and improvement.