Development of the active sitting score for ergonomic workplace integration

Background: Prolonged sedentary behaviors pose public health risks, including musculoskeletal issues like back pain and metabolic disorders such as cardiovascular disease. Ergonomic active sitting mitigates these risks through dynamic posture changes, muscle activation, and proper lumbar support. Previous findings demonstrate strong reliability and user acceptance of camera-based systems, with ergonomic improvements observed in pilot studies. However, current ergonomic solutions lack real-time and actionable feedback, limiting their impact. This research introduces a novel depth camera integrating 2D/3D body analysis algorithms to promote active sitting and reduce health risks.
Methods: A multi-phase approach will be used for 1) development of the active sitting score based on a systematic literature review (PRISMA) and parameter identification for optimal active sitting behaviors; 2) laboratory-based validation of a 2D depth camera (ergofox GmbH - https://ergofox.me/ de/Ergoscreening.html) against a marker-based motion capture system (Qualisys - https://www. qualisys.com/). Bland-Altman statistical analyses and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) will be executed for reliability assessment; 3) user-centered field studies (in office/home office) will be conducted to evaluate system usability, acceptance, and workplace integration.
Results: Initial results for the active sitting score will emerge from the systematic literature review, establishing key parameters. The score will effectively differentiate between active and passive sitting phases, promoting postural variability.
Conclusion: In the long term, this research will offer a validated, real-time tool for enhancing workplace ergonomics. Finally, by integrating dynamic feedback and recommendations for customized exercises into daily routines, this project will advance ergonomic practices and preventive healthcare strategies, addressing a critical gap in sedentary behavior interventions.