ISO 10068:2012

Overview

ISO 10068:2012 - Mechanical vibration and shock: Mechanical impedance of the human hand‑arm system at the driving point - defines standardized biodynamic data and models for the human hand‑arm system when coupled to vibrating handles. The standard provides frequency‑dependent values (10 Hz to 500 Hz) of mechanical impedance (expressed as modulus and phase) for three orthogonal translational directions (xh, yh, zh in the basicentric coordinate system). Values are given as lower, mean and upper envelopes at one‑third‑octave centre frequencies and apply under specified arm positions, grip/feed forces, handle diameters and excitation intensities.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Mechanical impedance definition: Zh(ω) = F(ω)/v(ω); relationship to apparent mass M: Zh(ω) = jω·Mh(ω).
• Directional data: Separate impedance components for xh, yh and zh directions treated as independent.
• Frequency range: 10 Hz to 500 Hz with tabulated modulus and phase values (lower/mean/upper limits).
• Applicability conditions: Specified arm posture ranges, wrist neutral position, prescribed grip and feed forces and handle geometries; values apply to males and can be provisionally applied to females.
• Models and annexes:
  • Reference impedance values (Annex A)
  • Mathematical models of apparent mass/impedance with anatomical components (Annexes B–D)
  • Gloved hand‑arm model (Annex E) for transmissibility estimation
  • Vibration power absorption frequency dependence (Annex F)
  • Guidance on measurement methods for mechanical impedance (Annex G)

Practical applications and users

ISO 10068:2012 is intended for professionals who design, test or evaluate hand‑held tools, anti‑vibration systems and occupational exposure:

• Tool and handle designers - use impedance data and models to predict tool dynamics and optimize ergonomic design.
• Vibration control engineers - estimate transmissibility of resilient materials and design vibration‑reducing features.
• Test laboratories & equipment manufacturers - develop testing apparatus and procedures that simulate hand‑arm loading.
• Ergonomists, occupational health professionals and researchers - analyze biodynamic responses, estimate vibration power absorption, and support development of frequency weightings and exposure assessments.

Related standards

• ISO 5349‑1 (basicentric coordinate system reference)
• ISO 8727 (coordinate definitions)
  ISO 10068:2012 complements these standards and supports ISO/TC 108 work on human exposure to mechanical vibration.

Keywords: ISO 10068:2012, mechanical impedance, hand‑arm system, driving point, vibration transmissibility, apparent mass, vibration power absorption, hand‑arm models, measurement methods.