Deeper integration with Siemens PLM software, improved anthropometric avatar matching, and significantly improved tracking accuracy have enhanced Xsens’ ergonomics analysis tools for use outside of the lab.
Xsens’ 3D motion tracking technology has been updated to integrate further with ergonomics analysis software ‘Jack and Process Simulate Human’, developed by Siemens PLM Software and its Tecnomatix portfolio.
Updates include:
– Enhanced scaling model
The ability to scale a Jack or Jill model within the Siemens PLM software to precisely match that of the Xsens avatar or human subject has been augmented. This improved anthropometric match between the human model and the subject being analysed means a significant improvement in tracking accuracy and therefore deeper, more true-to-life research results.
– Improved tracking accuracy
Greatly improved tracking accuracy in the Xsens software makes for more portable and flexible in-field data acquisition than ever before.
– A new way to review and edit data
Siemens PLM software enhancements include the ability to read motion capture data directly into the ‘smart’ simulation environment (TSB), enabling users to easily review and edit motion capture data, and use it to quickly build full simulations for further analysis.
The new updates arrive alongside the ability for Siemens PLM Human Simulation software users to capture in any environment without regard for magnetic distortion, thanks to the Xsens Analyze Engine – a new motion capture solution tailored to the ergonomics and workplace analysis industries.
Data captured by the Analyze Engine is not affected by magnetic distortion in capture environments; a drawback encountered by previous iterations of the technology.
This makes motion capture in manufacturing facilities more accessible than ever, and lets Siemens PLM software capture task analysis of real humans in a more diverse range of authentic workspace environments with greater anthropometric accuracy.
Such analyses include, but are not limited to, injury risk, user comfort, reachability, energy expenditure, fatigue limits, time study review, process verification, and facility layout design.
Hein Beute, director of product management for Xsens Technologies, said: “Our partnership with Siemens PLM Software means we can offer our customers one of the most open digital manufacturing solutions available today.
“Users can now access best-in-class data accuracy and performance in industrial environments. Ergonomists and engineers can enter a new world of ergonomics analysis.
“They can access features in the field that were previously restricted to the laboratory, enabling major developments in workplace health, safety, and efficiency.”
The Tecnomatix portfolio from Siemens offers human simulation technology with a comprehensive suite of ergonomic analysis tools, designed to help manufacturing companies improve the safety, efficiency and comfort of workplace environments using biomechanically accurate digital human avatars – with data captured via MVN Analyze and Xsens MVN Suits.
Combining motion capture with human simulation technology enables analyses focusing on process and product design to be evaluated using the movement of real people, potentially improving the overall accuracy.
As Siemens PLM Human Simulation Software users are looking for ways to increase the speed of simulation creation, the ease of set up, portability, and lack of magnetic interference in the Xsens system is a prime supporting technology towards this goal.
