Correlation analysis of stress and strain parameters in a manual assembly

Format: Publikation

Autor: Gorsek, D.; Schäfer, J.; Prinz, C.; Kuhlenkötter, B.

Fördermaßnahme: Zukunft der Arbeit: Mittelstand - innovativ und sozial - 2017 bis 2020

Erscheinungsjahr: 2025

Zur Veröffentlichung

This article deals with the analysis of correlations in manual assembly with regard to the stresses and strains experienced by employees. The aim of this paper is to identify stress and strain peaks in order to make manual assembly systems more humane. In an empirical study, subjective and objective methods were used to measure mental strain, focusing on data collection during active assembly and labelling of terminal strips. The data was collected using a modified NASA Task Load Index adapted to the specific requirements of the real production environment. Statistical analysis of the results shows complex interactions between different stressors, with strong correlations found between stress, frustration, work speed and mental strain, among others. Furthermore, discrepancies between objectively measured and subjectively perceived complexity suggest that psychological and contextual factors significantly influence workers’ perceptions of workload.

The results emphasize the need for a holistic approach to workplace optimization, taking into account both technical and psychological factors, in order to improve working conditions and productivity in manual assembly systems. Future research should focus on the targeted modification of individual parameters to investigate their effects on other factors and to create a more comprehensive database.