Effect of variable cordless stick vacuum weights on discomfort in different body parts during floor vacuuming task

Abstract: Cordless stick vacuum cleaners designed for ease of use and maneuverability, making them a popular choice for household cleaning. Among cordless stick vacuum cleaners, two distinct styles exist: one with the center of mass (CoM) near the user's hand and another with the CoM near the brush. The popularity of upright vacuum cleaners for home use is declining in favor of lightweight cordless stick vacuum cleaners, particularly those with a center of mass (CoM) positioned close to the handle. Despite their popularity, user discomfort has emerged as a concern, particularly during extended cleaning sessions. This discomfort stems from the weight distribution and design of the vacuum cleaners, potentially leading to pain and fatigue in various body parts. This study investigates user discomfort in various body parts through qualitative questionnaires, focusing on the impact of weight and vacuuming duration of cordless stick cleaners. Twelve participants engaged in vacuuming tasks using three cordless stick vacuum cleaners weighing 5.2 lbs, 7.4 lbs, and 9.6 lbs respectively, on carpeted floors within an actual classroom setting. These sessions occurred at two durations: 5 minutes and 10 minutes. Discomfort levels were assessed across various body parts (shoulder, upper arm, lower back, forearm, wrist etc.) using a scale ranging from 0 (no discomfort) to 9 (unbearable discomfort).To analyze the data ANOVA was conducted, the results of this study suggest that both vacuum weight and usage time significantly impact discomfort levels in all body parts. As the weight and time increase, participants’ discomfort significantly increases. However, the strength of these effects varies depending on the body part. For example, wrist discomfort is extremely sensitive to both weight and time, while forearm discomfort is less impacted by both factors. Additionally, the interaction between weight and time is significant in some body parts, such as the shoulder, upper arm, lower back indicating that the effect of weight varies in different duration of the task.Hence, the data underscores that during prolonged vacuuming sessions, the wrist endure the most notable discomfort in contrast to areas such as the lower back, shoulder, forearm, or upper arm. This highlights the necessity for substantial ergonomic enhancements invacuum cleaner design targeted specifically at alleviating discomfort in these critical areas.

Keywords: Vacuum Cleaner, Cordless Stick type, Discomfort, Centre of Mass, Human Factor

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005176

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