Human Factor Considerations in Sewing Machine for Workstation Design

There is a need of ergonomically fit sewing machine workstation so that sewing machine operators can perform their tasks comfortably. The present study was initiated where worker’s perceptions were measured by preparing questionnaire to find out difficulties during sewing machine work. Questionnaires were filled up by 100 sewing machine operators from different parts of the region. Questionnaire included the different modules which are Perceived posture, localized postural discomfort and estimated endurance time. Worker’s perceptions were analyzed by finding their critical values. Criticality index of questionnaire was calculated for concluding the most critical areas. Based on the criticality index, recommended parameters were performed on selected operators. Nine sewing machine operators performed experiments at twelve different combinations of table height, desk slope and pedal position. ANOVA technique was used to analyze the data obtained from nine selected sewing machine operators after performing experiments and the dimensional adjustment of sewing machine workstation was made, in relation to desk height, desk slope and pedal position. The recommendations were formulated in order to minimize the load on the musculoskeletal system during operation in terms of anthropometric dimensions with respect to sewing desk height, desk slope and pedal position. Statistical methods were used to find out the significance of the parameters considered in the study. So sewing machine workstation is said to be best fitted; only if it will have desk height +10 cms (above elbow height), desk slope 10° and pedal position -4 cms.

Published by: Gurbhej Singh