Computerized Biomechanical Models in Manual Work Design

This paper reviews the development and use. of various anthropometric and biomechanical models that have become available as programs operating in different computing environments. Some of the models to be presented are meant to assist in the design of a workstation when visual and physical reach requirements are high (e.g., COMBIMAN, SAMMIE and TEMPUS/BUBBLEPERSON). Other models are meant to analyze and assist in the design of tasks requiring significant physical effort (e.g., UM 2D and 3D Strength Models). Limitations and future needs will be discussed.