Vibration Discomfort of Hand-Arm Vibration influenced by Energy Content, Frequency, Waveform and Exposure Duration

Abstract: The ergonomics and user satisfaction when using technical systems, such as power tools like hammer drills, are greatly influenced by the perceived vibration. So far, the harmful effects of vibrations, based on frequency weighting equivalent to DIN EN ISO 5349-1, have been focused in the context of hand-arm vibration. However, the sense of discomfort caused by hand-arm vibration has not been considered so far. To address this research gap, a study was conducted using a full factorial experimental design with two levels of factors. The study aimed to explore the influence of energy content, frequency, waveform, and exposure duration on perceived discomfort caused by hand-arm vibration. Six subjects evaluated 16 different vibration patterns on a CP50 scale. To minimize potential confounding variables, the subjects were provided with blindfolds and in-ear hearing protection in the form of noise-cancelling headphones with white noise. Significant correlations were found between vibration discomfort and the factors of energy content, frequency, exposure duration, and waveform. These findings provide a solid foundation for further research on perceived discomfort caused by vibration, and subsequently, for enhancing the ergonomics and user satisfaction of technical systems.

Keywords: Perceived Vibration Discomfort, Ergonomics, User Satisfaction, Human Machine Interaction, Power Tools

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1004560

Cite this paper:

​