Citation

Karwowski W, Mital A, Palenque LE, Ward TL. Int. J. Ind. Ergonomics 1987; 2(1): 49-59.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1987, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper discusses the framework of a comprehensive knowledge-based expert system (M-LIFTAN) for analysis and design of manual materials handling tasks. The system, built using an expert system shell: ES / P ADVISOR written in Prolog 2, is implemented on a IBM AT(R) microcomputer. The knowledge base of M-LIFTAN allows the user to perform five different types of job analysis: (1) determination of maximum weights that can be handled manually by industrial workers for a variety of tasks, (2) determination of the NIOSH-based lifting recommendations, (3) prediction of maximum acceptable loads for lifting, (4) evaluation of the risk of overexertion injury while lifting loads under specified conditions, and (5) to seek advice for design/evaluation of complex manual handling tasks. An example of the consultation session illustrates the system's capabilities.