Electric 12v actuators can be used to make robots that can aid workers do their work faster, better and avoid RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury). 12V actuators can produce rotational or linear motion which can be used to make parts of robots to help workers perform some tasks without much straining. RSI can lead to musculoskeletal disorders that affect employee productivity or lead to work accidents that are costly to the companies. Compensation claims and low employee productivity are some of the negative effects of having poor ergonomics in workplaces. Some companies have formulated and implemented ergonomic policies to improve safety, comfort and movement of employees hence increasing their productivity and performance.

Technological advancement has led to creation of more sophisticated robots like the intelligent assist devices (IADs) which provide power assistance and smooth motion guidance. The operator feels as if it is an extension of his/her arms making it a remarkable aid at performing delicate or dangerous tasks that require pinpoint precision. Collaborative robots work directly with humans and perform some of the repetitive tiresome tasks thus reducing the occurrence of RSI. More advanced robots mainly used by manufacturers are automatic or semi-automatic and perform hazardous tasks that are likely to endanger human life. Human personnel are assigned tasks that are less likely to cause injuries to them.

Concisely, use of robotics to improve ergonomics has improved by unprecedented measure in the last few decades due to improvement in technology and computing power. Robotics have greatly reduced the work-related injuries emanating from RSI and improved employee productivity. It has also increased the profit margins of the companies which have invested in automation of services and better ergonomics due to lower cost of production and increased production.

Illustrations

Source: (Farkas, 2016)

 

Source: (MEDSTAR FRANKLIN SQUARE MEDICAL CENTER, n.d.)