Analysis of simultaneous wrist torque and electromyography of the dominant hand:The effects of wrist position, exertion direction and gender

Wan Mahasan, Wan Nor Syafiqah (2022) Analysis of simultaneous wrist torque and electromyography of the dominant hand:The effects of wrist position, exertion direction and gender. Project Report. Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Melaka, Malaysia. (Submitted)

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Abstract

In manufacturing, many manual operations need wrist torque, such as operating lathe and milling machines, and screwing tasks. Thus, the data of wrist torque and its relationship with hand electromyography (EMG) are crucial to design hand tools such as screwdrivers within individuals' torque capabilities. Engineers and product designers facing constraint to design hand tools like screwdrivers without any data on wrist torque and its relationship to EMG for the Malaysian population. The objectives of this study are to measure the wrist torque and EMG in the brachioradialis muscle of the dominant hand, to analyse the correlation between the wrist torque and electromyography of brachioradialis muscle with different wrist positions and exertion directions, and to develop a prototype of screwdriver handle. There were 30 males and 30 females of Malaysia young adults recruited for the wrist torque and EMG experiments. The experiment variables include wrist positions, exertion directions, anthropometric dimensions, and gender. A torque gauge (Mark 10, USA) and EMG device (NeuroTrac® MyoPlus Pro) were utilised to measure wrist torque and EMG data. Engineering analysis was performed on existing screwdrivers to determine the prototype's design requirements. Design and selection of the best design concept were developed by using Quality Function Deployment (QFD) and Pugh Concept Selection Matrix. The best screwdriver handle concept was sketched using Fusion 360 software. Lastly, a screwdriver handle prototype was fabricated. The result showed males generate higher wrist torque and EMG than females. Males exert 481 Ncm and females exert 299 Ncm of wrist torque. Male and female participants' maximum voluntary EMG contraction is 1999 Volt RMS. This study concluded that the wrist torque and EMG of the brachioradialis muscle are related to the wrist position, the direction of exertion, and the anthropometric dimensions. These statistics and information help design a hand tool that meets user needs, task requirements, and functionality. It will decrease wrist injuries and promote ergonomic work practices.

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