An imperceptible barcode can reduce the muscle activity required to scan common consumer packaged goods

摘要

While the Universal Product Code (UPC) has remained unchanged since its implementation in the 1970s, new technology and consumer package good layouts have started to change the UPC layout. The purpose of this study was to compare how upper extremity muscle activity was altered when scanning consumer packaged goods enhanced with an imperceptible barcode or a multi-sided UPC layout. Seventeen experienced cashiers participated in this study. Electromyography of four bilateral upper extremity muscles was recorded when scanning individual consumer packaged goods and a mock grocery cart. Scanning time and integrated electromyography were compared between the packages enhanced with an imperceptible barcode or the multi-sided barcodes versus the traditional barcodes. Participants were more efficient when scanning packages with the altered barcodes compared to the traditional barcode. Scanning the individual consumer packaged goods resulted in lower peak muscle activity for the shoulder muscles and elbow flexors when using packages enhanced with the imperceptible barcode. When extrapolated over a 4-h shift, the packages enhanced with the imperceptible barcode lowered upper extremity cumulative muscle activity measured muscles; however, the multi-sided layout only demonstrated a reduced muscular activity for the trapezius and left forearm. Future work must continue to assess grocery scanning practices, training, and other alternative scanning practices, such as hand scanners and self-checkout stands.