Motion Control Engineering & Manufacturing Resources

When most people think of workplace ergonomics, they think of the office worker who sits 8 hours a day in front of a computer. And as studies show, ergonomics is very important in this type of office setting, both for reducing strain and improving productivity. While the 9-5 office worker is the poster child for the importance of ergonomics, what about those on their feet most of the day? And what about their customers?

The way health care is delivered in hospitals is changing. Yet every medical center must still meet the same standards of exceptional care.

Distributors and dealers of ergonomic products and office furniture often look for proof that what they buy backs up its claims. They want their own customers to have that level of trust, too.

Anyone who’s spent an extended time sitting at a computer, whether for school or work, has probably experienced some form of strain. What once was the exception is now the norm -- desk jobs are more common than ever, and so are the related health risks.

When it comes to ergonomics and computer screens, it’s all in how you look at it. One thing is beyond dispute: If you want an ergonomic desk setup at the office or in a university setting, there’s definitely a right way and a wrong way to do it.

The importance of office furniture in terms of workplace posture and ergonomics is becoming more apparent than ever.

Modern product design is heavily influenced by motion control. Many of today’s flashy or high-end products take advantage of innovative hinge mechanism design to stand out from the crowd.

So you’ve read up on the benefits of ergonomic office products. You’ve heard rave reviews about the top ergonomic office chairs, ergonomic computer solutions (i.e. advanced keyboard mechanisms and adjustable monitor arms), and desktop components for training desks. 

The user experience for a product with a heavy lid or cover can range from awkward to annoying to downright dangerous.

Picture holding an industrial toolbox lid in place while reaching in one-handed, maybe twisting your back in the process. Or what if it comes down suddenly when your arm or fingers are in the way? The bruises won't be pretty, and the damage might be much worse.

This is why many designers add gas spring lid supports to their lid design. Others lean toward using counterbalance spring mechanisms or other mechanical spring solutions.

Product improvement and differentiation should be a priority for anyone involved with an ongoing project.