Measurement instrumentation and system for reducing negative effects from Whole Body Vibrations (WBV)

Kurzfassung

An SME from Northern Sweden is developing systems and technology for measurement and logging of Whole Body Vibrations (WBV). The system can also prevent and reduce the effects from WBV. The system meets the requirements of the EU directive 2002/44/EG and ISO2631-1. The company wants to implement the technology in operator environments for different purposes.

Details

The dosimeter consists of a three-axis accelerometer, processor, battery, memory, display, buttons, etc. It can also communicate with another presentation instrument, an indicator, for improved visualisation. The human vibration dosimeter measures and analyses Whole Body Vibrations (WBV) in three directions on driver seating as required by ISO 2631-1 and EU directive 2002/44/EG.
Measurement using the dosimeter is easy to learn and carry out. The unit doesn’t require cables, software or any special configurations. The vibration data is collected and analysed in three directions simultaneously. The analysis filters vibrations to exclude unnecessary data. Through the use of the two button controls, results can be displayed in 10-second intervals, an entire work period and the eight-hour daily vibration dose. The vibration dose is displayed on an LCD screen and can also be sent on an external display. Through feedback from the indicator users can understand the effects of different driving techniques and conditions (e.g. in a working vehicle where an operator can see the results of vibration measurements). From this information users can learn to lower vibration exposure by changing driving techniques and/or conditions. The company has very good know-how (PhD-level) in vibration measurement, reducing health risks, increasing vibration comfort.

Innovative Aspects:
The proposed technology is innovative and can be described by one of, or combination between:
- Measures body vibrations - different measurement methods for different locations on the body.
- Small size.
- 3-axis accelerometer.
- Simultaneous analysis.
- Simultaneous presentation.
- Wireless.
- Presentation of, i.e. if exposure or action limits are exceeded or not.

The dosimeter measures and stores the body vibrations during the working day of the driver. A driver can immediately observe if a limit value is exceeded and identify harmful vibrations. Signals can also be presented on an indicator, placed in front of the user, for improving driving technique. The vibration risk judgment will be easier and more precise.

Advantages:
· Cost saving - lower cost for measurement, faster analysis (lower costs), lower administration costs, etc.
· Higher efficiency - due to lower vibration exposure, productivity is increased.
· Improved safety - lower number of sick days due to lower effect from vibrations.
· Environmental friendliness - lower fuel consumption and wear on machines and vehicles.