Digital human modelling method for the evaluation of the ultrasound system and transducer design adherence to the SDMS industry standards

The problem of work related musculoskeletal disorder (WRMSD) among sonographers is of great importance. The term WRMSD is used to describe conditions that are caused or aggravated by workplace activities. The updated Industry Standards for the Prevention of Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Sonography, published recently by the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS), recommends a set of points concerning the ergonomics, design and workflow characteristics, which Diagnostic Ultrasound (US) system manufacturers must follow in terms of design and development of the US system console and scanner body, control panel, monitor and transducers. The present work describes an innovative design methodology utilizing Digital Human Modelling (DHM) to simulate the degree of adherence to the SDMS updated Industry Standards for the Prevention of WRMSDs in Sonography of an US system, monitor and transducer design at the Computer aided Design (CAD) level.