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Today, there exist several methods to compute a realistic human posture depending on tasks and geometries, with which a human being is interacting. Several approaches use probabilistic models in combination with inverse kinematics. These methods produce acceptable results concerning the reliability and accuracy. However, they are unsatisfying in terms of flexibility concerning application to various tasks, since adapting a probabilistic model to new requirements needs a high technical measurement effort. Another disadvantage is that it is challenging to derive values like strain and workload respectively or discomfort from these approaches. Hence we have developed an approach for 1) computing autonomous postures, 2) assessing and considering joint load and 3) assessing discomfort. Integral part of this approach is an accurate physical description of test subjects.

This paper presents a movement measurement system to acquire human motion data without markers. The system uses an accurate human man model as template to measure, based on image processing, movements. This method enables quick ergonomic measurements because no preparation of a subject with markers or special clothes is needed. All results which are achieved with this system are conform to the used man model and can be directly used for human modeling. Exemplary three investigations are presented concerning in-vehicle head and arm movements and riding a bike.

An electronic measurement system called PCMAN has been developed by the Institute of Ergonomics of the Technische Universität München to carry out body and posture measurements. PCMAN can produce model-like, three-dimensional images of a body quickly, reliably and precisely. The resulting data can be computer-processed using the CAD human model RAMSIS. PCMAN works with several images taken from different directions. From these, three-dimensional coordinates can be calculated by measuring corresponding points on the frames. The RAMSIS grid model can also be fitted into the subject's body measurements and posture. This is done by over-laying RAMSIS on the bitmaps of the subject and adjusting it to the subject's exact shape by changing the body surface and the location of the joints. PCMAN works with standard cameras operating at 25 frames per second.