The Human Performance Seminar Series (836) from the Center for Ergonomics is open to all. U-M Industrial and Operations Engineering graduate students and faculty are especially encouraged to attend.

Title: Utilizing Emerging Technology to Support Ergonomics

Abstract: Emerging technology, particularly wearable devices, has the potential to enhance many aspects of industrial ergonomics. Toyota has been trialing such devices since 2016, leading to the current implementation of 400+ shoulder exoskeletons. In addition, trials in wearable sensors, computer vision, and virtual/augmented reality are underway. This presentation will give an overview of the various devices in trial/use and note potential benefits to ergonomics.

Bio: Marisol Barrero has worked for Toyota Motor North America (Georgetown, KY) in the Production Engineering Division’s Safety Group since December 2006. She previously held the position of Regional Ergonomics Manager, where she supported tools, standards, and procedures for Toyota’s 15 North American manufacturing facilities. Currently, she manages the development and integration of safety-related technology and innovations across manufacturing operations, which is a role that she started at Toyota. She serves as Co-Chair of the Automotive Exoskeleton Group (AExG), sponsored via the Wearable Robotics Association. Prior to joining Toyota, Marisol worked as an ergonomics consultant with Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Group and Humantech, as well as a researcher with the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH). She received her B.A. and M.S. from Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. She has been a Certified Professional Ergonomist since 2006.