Automatic Creation of Manikin Motions Affected by Cable Forces

Effective simulation of manual assembly operations considering ergonomic load and clearance demands requires detailed modeling of human body kinematics and motions, including balance and response to external forces. In this paper we address the interaction of humans with flexible objects. By incorporating detailed physics simulation of flexible objects into the creation of ergonomically feasible human motions, we are able to ergonomically assess manual assembly operations involving cables and hoses. The method is implemented and demonstrated on a challenging operation taken from the automotive industry; a wiring harness assembly