ABSTRACT
This study examined the relationships between gripping exertion and comfort and discomfort by measuring at various force exertion levels (%MVCs). Each of twenty-four male participants exerted ten different gripping forces (10% ~ 100% MVC at intervals of 10%) with a multi-finger force measurement (MFFM) system, and rated his subjective ratings by using of visual analog scales (-50= very discomfort and 50= very comfort). Analysis of variance showed that it significantly changed from comfort to discomfort as %MVC increased, especially around 65% of MVC. These results would be useful for hand tool design and further research including other physical factors is needed to find their effects on comfort and discomfort.
