A Systematic Review of Motion Capture Technologies Applied to Ergonomic Assessment

Abstract

Motion capture (MoCap) technologies have become increasingly central to ergonomic risk assessment, particularly in industrial contexts where traditional observational methods may suffer from subjectivity and limited sampling. This systematic review, structured according to the PRISMA 2020 guideline, synthesises evidence from optical marker-based systems, inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensors, and markerless computer-vision systems applied to ergonomic assessment tools such as Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), Ergonomic Assessment Worksheet (EAWS), Ovako Working Posture Analysis System (OWAS), and Occupational Repetitive Actions (OCRA). Searches were conducted across Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed and IEEE Xplore from 2010 to 2025. Findings show that marker-based MoCap remains the accuracy reference, IMU-based systems offer portability and workplace feasibility, and marker less systems are emerging as the most scalable solution but remain sensitive to occlusion, clothing and environmental variability. Despite rapid technological progress, evidence is fragmented, with limited longitudinal studies linking MoCap-derived exposure metrics to musculoskeletal disorder (MSDs) outcomes. The review highlights methodological gaps, proposes directions for future research, and discusses implications for integration into occupational safety and health (OSH) management systems.