Digitalization of Musculoskeletal Risk Assessment in a Robotic-Assisted Assembly Workstation

The ergonomic assessment of adopted working postures is essential for avoiding musculoskeletal risk factors in manufacturing contexts. Several observational methods based on external analyst observations are available; however, they relatively subjective and suffer low repeatability. Over the past decade, digitalization this has received high research interest. Robotic applications have potential to lighten workers’ workload improve conditions. Therefore, work presents a before after robotic implementation an assembly workstation. We also emphasize importance using novel non-intrusive technologies assessment. A kinematic study was conducted inertial motion units (IMU) convenience sample two workers during their normal performance cycles. estimated according semi-automated solution, called Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) report. Based previous problems reported by company, centered analysis functional wrist movements (flexion/extension, ulnar/radial deviation, pronation/supination). results RULA report showed reduction robotic-assisted assembly. Regarding tasks, significant posture improvement 20–45% registered (considering angular deviations relative neutral position). obtained direct measurements simultaneously reflect individual characteristics. current highlights in-field instrumented limitations system applied (e.g., unsuitable tracking small joints, such as fingers).