University of Windsor professor partners with Ford Motor Company to improve factory ergonomics using motion capture technology
At the start of their collaboration, Professor Cort’s team set out to use game-like software to create simulations that mimic a worker’s motions during the installation of parts on the assembly line.
The Ford ergonomics team could then use these simulations to evaluate which motions may pose increased risk to cause injuries. These same simulations can be shared with physicians to help guide more effective return-to-work plans.
But with more than 400 assembly line stations in the average factory, it can be very costly and time consuming to create simulations for every workstation. To tackle this challenge, Ford and Professor Cort are looking at how 3-D motion capture technology could help reduce the time it takes to create each simulation.
Once initial analysis of the technology is complete, workers at Ford’s Windsor and Oakville assembly plants will be outfitted with motion capture suits. As the employees work, the suit will record their movements, creating data which can then be rapidly transferred into the game-like human simulation software. The motions can be evaluated using this software, providing the research team with a more accurate look at the demands of each station along the line.
At its conclusion, the project will give Ford a near-complete picture of the tasks at each station on the factory floor, enabling more rapid and accurate ergonomic analysis. Ford’s industrial engineers can then use the information to redesign stations when necessary and optimize for efficiencies, right down to placing the last screw.
Ford ergonomist Allison Stephens speaks about the advantages for the company: “Ford recognizes that to stay ahead, we have to tap into advanced research. This collaboration provides access to technical expertise that we’ve not been able to get elsewhere.”
She continues: “The Mitacs Accelerate program has also given us the opportunity to build relationships with some of the best talent in the field. In fact, we hired one of Professor Cort’s students right after an internship with us last year.”
Professor Cort adds his perspective, saying, “Mitacs internships give my students a chance showcase their talents first hand, and to apply them to a client’s unique challenges. They get to see their work having an impact right away — something that, to me, is very rewarding.”
Mitacs thanks the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario for their support of the Accelerate research internship in this story. Across Canada, the Accelerate program also receives support from Alberta Innovates, the Government of British Columbia, the Government of New Brunswick, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Government of Nova Scotia, the Government of Prince Edward Island, the Government of Quebec, the Government of Saskatchewan and Research Manitoba.
Do you have a business challenge that could benefit from a research solution? If so, contact Mitacs today to discuss partnership opportunities: BD@mitacs.ca
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