Load Parameters

The Load manikin parameter corresponds to the forces applied on the body segments. This load parameter is considered when making calculations such as Balance IK Behavior, Center of Gravity, and Biomechanics.

As of R13, load can be calculated only for the hands.

When a manikin is initially created, an empty Load node is automatically created in the specification tree.

Creating load parameters
 

  1. From the Manikin Tools toolbar, select the Inserts a new load and in the specification tree, select the manikin.

  2. The Load Properties dialog box appears.


     

  3. In the Load Properties dialog box, you can specify:
     

    • the magnitude (force) for the the left and right hand
    • the elevation and deviation (for carrying, pushing/pulling, and lifting/lowering)

     

  4. By default the Symmetric checkbox is active and the specified load is applied on both hands with the same orientation. When this checkbox is deactivated, different elevations and deviations can be applied to the left and right hand separately.


     

  5. When the editing is complete, select the OK button.

  6. In the specification tree, a description (total, right, and left force magnitudes) appears under the main Loads node.

  7. The load representations (forces acting on the hands) are shown in the 3D view.
 

Editing load parameters
 

  1. To edit the current load parameters, double-click the Load (with description) node in the specification tree. The Load Properties dialog box reappears.

    OR

    In the specification tree, right-click on the Load (with description) node and choose Definition from the contextual menu. The Load Properties dialog box reappears.
     

  2. If the total magnitude is set to 0, the load is removed from the Loads node in the specification tree.

  3. Cut, Copy, and Paste options in the contextual menu are also available for the Load node.

  4. If Deactivate is chosen, the load node is deactivated (as shown by the deactivate symbol) and the load representations in the 3D view change color.
 

Display options
The display options are located in the Tools > Options > Ergonomics Design & Analysis > Human Builder > Display tab.

The Loads representations can be displayed in several ways:

  • Load Arrow (default): the forces acting on the hands

  • Force Line: the reactive (opposite direction from the force)

  • None: nothing is displayed