Intelligent ambulatory monitor for the collection of biomechanical data from within the workplace

Abstract

This paper describes the design and development of an eight-channel ambulatory monitor for use in ergonomic and rehabilitation studies. This portable, battery operated instrument is capable of recording various physiological and biomechanical parameters during the course of a working shift. By incorporating a digital signal processor within the instrument, sophisticated on-line processing is possible. The processed data is stored in a removable non-volatile memory module which can be interrogated by a PC type machine. Evaluation of the instrument in a laboratory setting has been performed to verify operation. In addition, clinical trials are presently underway in a hospital environment as part of an injury prevention program targeted towards nurses. It is proposed that this instrument can be used to determine compliance with such programs after the initial training phase and give some indication as to whether refresher courses are warranted.