Dietmar Reinert

FIVIS – A Bicycle Simulation System

This contribution describes the FIVIS project. The project’s goal is the development of an immersive bicycle simulation platform for several applications in the areas of biomechanics, sports, traffic education, road safety and entertainment. To take physical, optical and acoustical characteristics of cycling into account, FIVIS uses a special immersive visualization system, a motion platform and a standard bicycle with sensors and actuators, as well as a surround sound system. First experimental results have shown that the FIVIS simulator provides a realistic training and exercising environment for traffic education and stress research.

Safety of electronic circuits integrated into personal protective equipment (PPE)

Abstract Integrated electronics are being introduced into various type of personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure information and alarm functions. This is the case for hearing protection devices and electro-optical filters for arc welding (protection) as well as for respiratory protective equipment (information and alarm). The use of electronics raises questions concerning the level of protection afforded by these types of PPE and their conformity to the essential requirements laid down in concerned European directive. The level of protection of PPE including electronics shall be at least equivalent to that of standard PPE. In order to provide an answer to those concerned, this article proposes a method used in the machinery domain, which is based on one index of risk determination and the approach from the angle of safety. It leads to the determination of the category of EN 954-1 standard, also used in the safety of machinery domain, to which the PPE belongs. According to that category, technical measures are to be considered at the design stage of PPE including electronics in order to reach the required level of protection. These additional requirements are to be proposed for their insertion in national, European and international standards.

Combined Measurement System for the Evaluation of Multi Causal Strain

This work addresses the problem of measuring psychological strain in humans by the use of physiological data. The aim of the work is the research, development and evaluation of a measurement system for the acquisition of such data from humans and the differentiation of psychological and physical strain with the help of machine learning algorithms. The developed system records and analyzes the ECG, the EMG, as well as the skin conductance, and combines these physiological parameters with the subjects physical activity. The main purpose of this measurement system is to assess both types of strain in employees at their workplaces.

Hand and Finger Protection for Circular Saws

In the presented project, a new approach for the prevention of hand movements leading to hazards and for non-contact detection of fingers is intended to permit comprehensive and economical protection on circular saws. The basic principles may also be applied to other machines with manual loading and / or unloading. With an automatic blade guard an improved integration of the protection system can be achieved. In addition a new detection principle is explained. The distinction between skin and wood or other material is achieved by a dedicated spectral analysis in the near infrared region. Using LED and photodiodes it is possible to detect fingers and hands reliably. With a kind of light curtain the intrusion of hands or fingers into the dangerous zone near the blade guard can be prevented.

Risk and system integrity concepts for safety-related control systems

Abstract This paper provides an overview of the concepts of “risk” and “safety-integrity” in relation to safety-related electrical/electronic/programmable electronic systems. The paper is an abridged version of Annex A of the emerging International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard; “Functional safety of electrical/electronic/programmable electronic systems”. Although based on Annex A, the authors have deviated in a few instances, from the strict wording of Annex A in order to more properly represent their own views. Where this occurs, a note in the text has been added to alert the reader of the deviation. The concepts of risk (including tolerable risk; safety integrity; safety-related system; System and Software Integrity Levels) are discussed.

Proactive prevention in occupational safety and health: how to identify tomorrow's prevention priorities and preventive measures

Introduction. Global trends such as digitalization, globalization and demographic change are changing workplaces, and accordingly occupational safety and health (OSH) needs. To better prepare for the future and to foster proactive prevention, the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) established an OSH risk observatory (RO OSH). Methods. The RO OSH relies on an online survey and calls upon the expertise of labour inspectors. In total, 398 labour inspectors participated in the first RO OSH enquiry. They rated developments with regard to their sector-specific relevance for OSH in the near future. The RO OSH also provides ideas for preventive measures that can be implemented by the German Social Accident Insurance Institutions. Results. Work intensity, demographic aspects and digitalization play a major role for most or all sectors. However, familiar OSH issues such as musculoskeletal strain and noise also continue to be of major importance and require further consideration and specific solutions in prevention. Outlook. For the DGUV, training and consulting have great potential for proactive prevention in these priority areas, e.g., by fostering a prevention culture and supporting companies in (psychosocial) risk assessment (also for mobile work). For instance, concepts for increasing physical activity at sedentary workplaces and data security require continued research.