This article presents the methodology of ergonomic design and testing of hand-held impact tools with vibration isolation systems. An operator’s hand model is proposed comprising uniform bars positioned at angles adequate to the working position of the upper extremity during soil compacting operation. The model is addressing both the subject operator’s anthropometric traits and the tool’s interaction with the system. Model testing data of the hand-arm system are in good agreement with the results of experimental testing, in which the level of accelerations measured both at the tool handle and at the most exposed areas of the hand, that is at the wrist and at the elbow, were determined using miniature triaxial vibration sensors. The presented hand-arm system model makes it possible to analyze interaction between the hand and the tool and transmission of vibration from the tool to the human body. The proposed methodology may be used in creating ergonomic working environments and in designing safe impact tools.

hand model, simulation, impact tools