Technology transfer and anthropotechnology: An analysis of the sugarcane harvesting in Australia and Brazil

Abstract

The present paper conducts a comparative analysis of the operation of sugarcane harvesting machines in their original place of design (Australia) and in a recipient country of this technology (Brazil). The method comprised Ergonomic Work Analysis (EWA) and the assumptions of anthropotechnology proposed by Wisner. The results achieved depict the similarities and differences between the two countries regarding: (a) the work organization and harvesting practices, (b) the harvesting strategies of the teams, and (c) the design modifications performed in the harvesting machines. The differences of how the machines were operated in both countries were identified, such as sloping grounds and amount of working hours, which lead to structural modifications in Brazilian machines. Thus, the design-in-use to adapt a technology to local conditions is crucial when there is inadequate technology transfer. The anthropotechnological approach proved to be relevant to understand all the broader factors causing difficulties in a technology transfer process.

Structure Design and Bearing Capacity Analysis for Crawler Chassis of Rice Combine Harvester

“…However, the design still lacks relevant theories and data of ergonomics design, which leads to some problems such as poor operating comfort. In view of the design of a control layout of crawler chassis is unreasonable and prone to problems such as driving fatigue and misoperation, Lidiane and Joao through the ergonomics work analysis (EWA) and Wisner's human body hypothesis for Australia compared with the sugarcane harvesting machinery and its operation in Brazil, and the mechanical structure and the change of the operating space caused by different human variable are proposed [11]. Qiu et al conducted a survey of the satisfaction of tractor drivers on the function and interface usability of driving operations [12].…”