DC Hand tools are commonly used in manufacturing industries for tightening of fasteners. These hand tools will result in reaction torque on the hand due torque buildup. This results in forceful exertion of the hand operating the hand tools. Repeated stretching of tendons of the wrist during such repetitive tasks results in some of its fibers being torn. This results in inflammation of the tendon leading to tendinitis. Chronic tendon disorders, such as tendinitis, are major causes of lost work and workers' compensation in manufacturing industries. However, the correlation between operational parameters such as operator position, gripping force, tightening algorithm and torque applied to the reaction torque produced is unknown. We are conducting a combined modelling and experimental approach to study the factors that affect the reaction torque with the aim of minimizing the handle displacement when pistol grip hand tools are used to tighten fasteners in various operating positions.
