Ergonomics evaluation of a manually operated cassava chipping machine

A manually operated machine for chipping cassava was evaluated. Six farmers took part in the study, with physiological, postural, and subjective measu rements being taken. Using the machine resulted in drudgery and postural di scomfort. Following an iterative design process and using appropriate anthr opometric measurements, an improved, adjustable prototype was developed. Th is was tested with the six farmers and six novice users. It was found to re duce discomfort and physiological strain, allowed a faster work-rate (with novice users) and was preferred by all users. The study demonstrated how er gonomics can play an important role in reducing drudgery and improving user satisfaction in technology development and transfer in developing countrie s. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.