Presentation
The Quality of Model-Estimated Shoulder Muscle Activity During Overhead Work Varies with Task Demands and Exoskeleton Use
DescriptionPassive arm-support exoskeletons (ASEs) can alleviate shoulder stress during overhead tasks. However, the effects of ASEs vary by device and task, and existing evaluation protocols remain time-consuming and resource-intensive. Musculoskeletal models could reduce dependence on electromyography (EMG) measures by predicting muscle activation. However, it is unknown whether model performance is sufficient or consistent when an ASE is used across different task conditions. We evaluated model-estimated shoulder muscle activity from a commercial biomechanical model during dynamic overhead push tasks at three over-shoulder heights, in both the forward and upward directions, both with and without an ASE. Kinematics and hand-force data were input into the AnyBody Modeling System to estimate shoulder muscle activity. Model outputs were then compared to normalized EMG using pattern-similarity and magnitude-difference metrics. Overall, model performance closely matched normalized EMG patterns at low arm-elevation angles, but performance decreased at larger elevation angles and declined further when an ASE was included. These outcomes suggest that model-estimated shoulder muscle activity is reasonably accurate under certain conditions. However, model improvements are needed to ensure adequate performance across a broader range of tasks.
Event Type
Industry/Practitioner Content
Lecture
TimeTuesday, October 14th4:50pm - 5:10pm CDT
LocationGrand C/D South
Occupational Ergonomics
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