A Proof-of-Concept Study to Characterize Bicep and Tricep Muscle Fatigue During an Aircraft Assembly Task at Different Height Conditions Using the Joint Analysis of the Spectrum and Amplitude Method

Source abstract

Overhead and awkward postures in assembly can shift muscular demands and accelerate localized fatigue. While electromyography (EMG) amplitude and frequency features are commonly used to assess fatigue, these features can be difficult to interpret independently. This proof-of-concept study applied the Joint Analysis of Spectrum and Amplitude (JASA) method to characterize biceps and triceps fatigue for select assembly-relevant tasks at three different heights using data from one experienced worker. For each task, slopes of root mean square (RMS) and median frequency were computed and mapped to JASA categories. Initial findings indicate fatigue patterns consistent with expectations associated with the task, height, and arm usage. Elevated height was more frequently associated with dominant triceps fatigue, with nominal and lowered heights more often associated with dominant biceps fatigue. The JASA method provides insight into disambiguating force increase/decrease from fatigue behavior and should be further evaluated to support ergonomic interventions in assembly work.