FORD

BRAND USES THE TECHNOLOGY OF ATHLETES IN THEIR PRODUCTION LINE

Since 2003, Ford has been developing studies to improve the ergonomics of its employees on assembly lines around the world with the comprehensive use of data and new technologies. A pilot program launched this month by the company in partnership with the Valencia Biomechanics Institute in Spain brings to the production of vehicles the same technology used to improve the performance of high-level athletes (see video below).The technique, based on a special suit equipped with advanced motion capture technology, is also used to reproduce the most famous throws of great stars of the sport in electronic games. It records how athletes race or spin, allowing technicians to harness the full potential of athletes and refine their performance. In factories, this feature helps design less stressful workstations and improve the quality of the production process."It has been proven that, in the sporting environment, small adjustments in the way the athlete moves, made with the aid of this technology, can bring enormous benefits," says Javier Gisbert, production manager of the Ford factory in Valencia. "For our employees, the changes made in the work areas with this technology allow them to operate more comfortably and efficiently."
The clothing used for motion capture fits right into the body and is equipped with 15 tiny light sensors, connected to a wireless detector. The system records how the person moves during the activity, highlighting the joints of the head, neck, shoulders and limbs. The action is recorded by four special motion capture cameras, similar to those used in video games, which generate images of a 3D animation character.Ergonomists then use this data to design stations that best fit the characteristics of operators, such as height and arm length, and guide their posture to reduce stress and risk of injury. When the study is completed, the idea is to extend its application to other brand factories around the world.



Autonews