research

Current and past research projects in occupational ergonomics

Our research focuses on enhancing worker well-being and workplace safety through evidence-based ergonomic interventions. We develop and evaluate methods for assessing physical and cognitive workload, identify risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders, and design solutions that leverage emerging technologies including wearable sensors, AI, IoT, and mixed reality.

Biomechanical Analysis and Injury Risk Assessment

Biomechanical Analysis

Advanced biomechanical modeling and analysis to identify injury risk factors in occupational settings. We develop computational models that predict joint forces, muscle activation patterns, and cumulative exposure to risk factors. This research combines laboratory-based motion capture studies with field observations to validate practical assessment tools for use in real workplace environments. Our work supports the design of targeted interventions that reduce physical demands while maintaining productivity.

Cognitive Workload and Human Performance

Cognitive Workload Assessment

Investigation of cognitive demands in complex work environments and their impact on human performance and safety. We employ multi-modal assessment methods including subjective ratings, physiological measures, and performance metrics to characterize mental workload. This research informs the design of work systems that optimize cognitive resources, reduce mental fatigue, and support sustainable careers. Applications include manufacturing, healthcare, and other safety-critical domains where cognitive demands are high.

Ergonomic Intervention Design and Evaluation

Ergonomic Intervention

Systematic development and evaluation of ergonomic interventions to reduce workplace injury risk and enhance worker well-being. Our approach combines participatory design methods with rigorous evaluation protocols to ensure interventions are both effective and acceptable to workers. We study engineering controls, administrative strategies, work-rest scheduling, and behavioral interventions. Research outcomes include validated intervention toolkits and implementation guidelines for practitioners.

Wearable Sensors for Workplace Monitoring

Wearable Sensors

Development and validation of wearable sensor systems for continuous monitoring of worker exposure to ergonomic risk factors. We integrate IMU sensors, force sensors, and physiological monitors to capture comprehensive data on physical demands during actual work. Machine learning algorithms process sensor data to automatically classify tasks, detect hazardous postures, and quantify cumulative exposure. This research enables scalable, objective ergonomic assessments that support data-driven workplace improvements.

Research Themes

Workload Assessment

Multi-modal characterization of physical and cognitive demands using EMG, posture analysis, subjective measures, and temporal exposure modeling.

Intervention Design

Iterative development and evaluation of ergonomic solutions, workflow redesign, and work-rest scheduling strategies.

Biomechanics Tools

Analytical and software utilities including signal processing, posture analysis, and optimization tools that support empirical studies.

Research Collaborations

Our research benefits from collaborations with industry partners, healthcare institutions, and academic researchers across disciplines. We welcome inquiries from organizations interested in partnering on ergonomics research and implementation projects.