The Effects of Mobile Computer Location in a Vehicle Cab on Muscle Activity and Joint Postures

The objective of this research is to determine the best location to place a conventional mobile PC supported by a commercially available mount in a light truck cab. U.S. and Canadian electric utility companies are in the process of integrating mobile computers into their fleet vehicle cabs. There are no publications on the effect of mobile computer location in a vehicle cab on biomechanical loading, performance, and subjective assessment. Four locations of mobile computers in a light truck cab were tested in a laboratory study to determine how location affected muscle activity of the lower back and shoulders and joint angles of the shoulders, elbows, and wrist. Placing the mobile computer closer to the steering wheel reduced low back and shoulder muscle activity required to use the mobile computer. Upper extremity joint angles were also closer to neutral angle. Locating the mobile computer close to the steering wheel reduces risk factors of injuries such as low back pain and shoulder tendonitis. Results from this study can guide electric utility companies in the installation of mobile computers into vehicle cabs. A recommendation for the initial location, with respect to the steering wheel, to locate the mobile computer is included. Results may also be generalized to other industries that use truck-like vehicles, such as construction. Language: en