Investigating the effects of backrest angle on driver erector spinae muscle fatigue during long drives: a preliminary study

Eltayeb, Muhammad Alfatih and Azmi, Nur Liyana and Md Nor, Khairul Affendy and Toha @ Tohara, Siti Fauziah and Hassan Abdalla Hashim, Aisha and Nordin, Nor Hidayati Diyana (2024) Investigating the effects of backrest angle on driver erector spinae muscle fatigue during long drives: a preliminary study. In: 2024 9th International Conference on Mechatronics Engineering (ICOM), 13-14 August 2024, Kulliyyah of Engineering, IIUM.

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Abstract

Long hours of driving in a seated position often lead to muscle fatigue and discomfort, particularly in the lower back. Muscle fatigue, characterized by decreased muscle performance, is a significant concern for drivers as it impacts comfort and potentially compromises safety. Surface electromyography (sEMG) is a valuable tool for objectively assessing muscle fatigue by monitoring real-time muscle activity during driving. This paper explores the use of sEMG to evaluate back muscle fatigue while driving for 144 km at backrest angles of 90° and 100°. The study synthesizes current research on quantifying muscular fatigue and assessing the impact of different backrest angles on muscle activation and fatigue onset. Increasing root mean square (RMS) and declining mean frequency (MNF) and median frequency (MDF) typically indicate muscle fatigue. Based on this study involving three subjects and six trials, inconsistent trends in MNF and MDF were observed, with high measurement variability. A better understanding of these dynamics will contribute to guidelines for optimizing backrest angles, reducing muscle fatigue, and enhancing overall driver comfort and safety.

Item Type:	Proceeding Paper (Slide Presentation)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	muscle fatigue, driving, EMG, erector spinae, backrest angle
Subjects:	T Technology > T Technology (General)
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Engineering > Department of Mechatronics Engineering Kulliyyah of Engineering
Depositing User:	Dr Nur Liyana Azmi
Date Deposited:	11 Sep 2024 16:07
Last Modified:	11 Sep 2024 16:07
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/114396

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