Back pain Today recognize the problems that cause pain tomorrow

Early detection system identifies defective movement sequences

No other cause in Germany for as many sick leave as back pain. Musculoskeletal disorders are at the forefront of the most common health problems in the workplace. In particular, workers who are constantly making monotonous and repetitive movements at work have a high risk of developing back injuries. German researchers have now developed a device that analyzes motion sequences in real time with the help of camera recordings and evaluates them with regard to possible damage.

The camera-assisted system identifies and evaluates loads that affect back, shoulders and other joints during work procedures. These loads are visualized in real time and displayed via the classic traffic light colors. The early detection system called "Ergonomics in Motion" was developed by a team from the Leipzig University of Applied Sciences (HTWK Leipzig). At the European trade fair for packaging, processes and technology "FachPack", which takes place from 25 to 27 September 2018 in Nuremberg, the system is to be presented for the first time.

The new "Ergonomics in Motion" early warning system analyzes movements and detects harmful processes that can lead to later back pain and joint problems. (Image: lassedesignen / fotolia.com)

Small changes with big impact

The system has already been tested for test purposes in vehicle manufacturing and logistics, where monotonous motion sequences are part of everyday life in many areas. Whether recurrent movements actually lead to back pain or even permanent damage, according to the researchers depends significantly on the implementation. This would often be small changes and corrections to spare joints. Even minimal exercises relieve back pain.

Optimize work processes ergonomically

"The direct feedback provided by Ergonomics in Motion can help to evaluate and adjust workplaces, or to train employees in ergonomic motion," explains Dr. Gerold Bausch from the HTWK Leipzig in a press release on the new early detection system. The software of the system is the core. She calculated the camera shots in real time and deduce from the data, which movements are defective, the expert explains.

Uncomplicated use

"During the development, it was important to us that the system be easy to use," emphasizes Bausch. No special camera technology is needed to run the software. Even recordings with a smartphone could be evaluated. With a live on-site analysis, companies could get immediate feedback on the greatest physical wear and tear within the company.

Not everything can be done by machines

"Many physically demanding tasks in packaging departments can nowadays be handled by machines," reports Rupert Melkus, project manager for packaging processes at Gigant Verpackungstechnik, at whose stand the new early detection system for back pain is presented. But there would always be jobs that can not be done by machines. Therefore, good ergonomics in the workplace is a major concern.

Scientific expertise in everyday work

"With 'Ergonomics in Motion', we now have an easy-to-use tool that makes it easy to apply scientific expertise to everyday work," concludes Melkus. The system was developed in collaboration with the "Laboratory for Biosignal Processing", which specializes in contactless acquisition, processing and analysis of biosignals. One key aspect is the networking of various devices and applications in order to generate new and innovative solutions for biotechnology and medical technology. (Vb)