Case Study: University of Aalborg improves operator comfort and productivity with Danfoss steering solutions

University of Aalborg - Customer Case Study

Aalborg University partnered with Danfoss to better understand how different steering inputs affect operator comfort, productivity, and muscle strain in machine operation. The challenge was to move beyond trends and assumptions around steering solutions such as joysticks, mini-wheels, and advanced steering wheel options, and instead gather hard data on their real ergonomic and productivity benefits.

Danfoss worked with Aalborg University to run a steering study using a wheel loader simulator and fifteen healthy, right-handed male students. The test compared a standard steering wheel, a steering wheel with Danfoss Quick Steering, a mini-wheel, and joysticks, measuring completion time, task deviation, and muscle activity. Danfoss found that alternative steering inputs reduced task completion time by 6%, and the Danfoss JS-1 joystick cut average workload by 65% versus conventional steering, showing clear gains in productivity and reduced muscle fatigue.

University of Aalborg