Isometric torque affected by its position and posture

Abstract

A hand cranking mechanical frictional setup was developed using anthropometric dimensions of Madhya Pradesh farm women.  The setup had a provision for attaching on-line torque transducer. Variable crank length was provided that could be adjusted as per the farm women (workers).  The setup had also a provision for rising up and down to match workers’ conditions. Isometric torque was measured at each quadrant positions of handle (0°, 90°, 180° and 270°) at different crank lengths (17.5, 21, 24, 27 and 30 cm).  Higher torque was developed by farm women in standing posture as compared to sitting.  The crank length up to 27 cm gave better torque at nearly all positions.  The lowest torque may be considered for designing the equipment amongst all positions of handle so that human being could easily operate the equipment.