Simwork Systems is pleased to announce the impending release of the next generation of the ERGOS® work simulation system. Since 1986, the original ERGOS® work simulation system has changed the way Work Capacity Assessments (WCAs), Functional Ability Evaluations (FAEs) and Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs) are conducted throughout the world. The ERGOS® II™ continues to use many of the same ground-breaking features exclusive to the ERGOS® work simulation system plus many new features. ERGOS® II™ operates using a Windows XP or Vista software platform. ERGOS® II™ now requires 85% less floor space than the original design! It makes use of touch screen computer technology that simplifies test protocols and speeds assessment time.

A New Generation

The ERGOS® II™ next generation work simulation system exhibits several new features that make it the newest and most advanced technology for work capacity and functional assessment. Besides keeping many of the key features that have made ERGOS® the “world standard” in the assessment and work conditioning arena, The Simwork Systems design team and Work Recovery Europa, owners of the technology, have advanced several unique features that many users have requested.

Unique Features Remain

The ERGOS® II™ continues to provide standardized assessment protocols in multiple languages with the option for additional ones to be added later. The ERGOS® II™ continues to provide all protocols via computer generated instructions using standard informed consent evaluee participation. Combined video and audio test administration continue to be used on the new ERGOS® II™ instruction set. All test and conditioning protocol data is evidentiary, assuring objective measurability, reproducibility and nonbiased test results. Assessment performance data is compared with government work definitions and job standards as well as objective MTM performance standards to assure that all data is criterion based, while remaining gender and culture fair.

New Features Improve ERGOS® II™

Over the last four years, new features have been developed that make the ERGOS® II™ system easier to use, more user friendly and faster to administer. Many of these new feature are the direct result of the advances that have occurred in technology, especially computer design. The ERGOS® II™ now has numerous software improvements that are the direct result of input by first line assessment professionals. Last, new testing protocols and methods have been developed that enhance the historical quality of criterion based test data generation. These new features has produced a better testing tool.

Hardware Enhancements

The most noticeable ERGOS® change is the physical layout of the system. ERGOS® II™ now has three assessment panels instead of five. The three ERGOS® II™ panels produce the same data pioneered by the original ERGOS® design initiated in 1986. This change also makes note that this light weight system is entirely made of aircraft grade aluminum. This streamlined design makes the system much lighter and easier to install above ground floor and on the wall. The three sided system requires less than 60 square feet of floor space since all the racks and tubs used with the original design have been eliminated from this design version. This makes the system easy to use in the small clinic. Each panel now uses a touch screen computer that allows the evaluator and evaluee to interface directly with test and conditioning protocols without the scan wands as with the old system. The ERGOS® II™ is enclosed and has a filtered air system to prevent premature computer break down due to poor ventilation of components. Optional hardware includes a wireless headphone system that allows users to hear only instructions from their test activity without interference from other test panels. Custom panel colors and textures are now available.

Software Enhancements

One of the most notable changes on the ERGOS® II™ is the software operating system. Now Windows™ XP or Vista operates the system. This means that report formats are completely controlled by the evaluator who can customize the layout to meet the need of the referral source. Evaluators can now develop and save customized test and conditioning protocols for specific disability and referral needs. High resolution photographs and movie clips show the evaluee how to perform the activity. The evaluator can program any activity prior to administration using a few mouse clicks.

Expanded Protocols

Assessment protocols can be expanded or shortened to meet the need of the referral source or evaluee’s pathology. Protocols can be saved for future or repeated use. Conditioning protocols now include isometric strength activities and biofeedback for the first time. Employment and hiring protocols can now be developed, customized and saved by specific job standard.

Summary

• Complete systems cover:
  • 15 work demands defined by the Department of Labor are measured.
  • 21 work related tests are provided plus the ability to create custom tests:
    

    Strength Tests (Coefficient of Variation)	Performance Tests (MTM)
    Static Lift strength	Dynamic Lift strength
    Push and pull strength	Carrying strength
    Pinch strength	Finger Dexterity
    Grip strength	Handling dexterity
    Wrist flexion strength	Forward reach
    Wrist extension strength	Overhead reach
    Forearm pronation strength	Standing-Bending, Stooping
    Forearm supination strength	Kneeling, Crouching

• Upper Extremity system covers:
  • 8 work demands defined by the Department of Labor are measured.
  • 13 work related tests are provided plus the ability to create custom tests:

    Strength Tests (Coefficient of Variation)	Performance Tests (MTM)
    Pinch strength	Finger Dexterity
    Grip strength	Handling dexterity
    Wrist flexion strength
    Wrist extension strength
    Forearm pronation strength
    Forearm supination strength

• Computer Software:
  • Allows evaluators to create any test or test protocol, based on client and/or job demands.
  • Real-time data collection builds the final report that is generated before the client even leaves the facility.
  • Client and evaluator get instant feedback on test results and performance.
  • Computer audio and video ensure that protocols are completely objective.
• Report Format:
  • Reports are concise, specific and functionally orientated and address specific needs.
  • Summary of Work Related Abilities: defines work abilities in a grid format and compares the client’s abilities with general or specific job demands.
  • Participation Summary: identifies consistency of participation in easy to understand quantitative and qualitative data.

Features

• Measurement areas:
  • FCE/FCA routines.
  • Pre-employment/ADA testing.
  • Work conditioning and hardening.
  • Treatment tracking measurement.
• Easy and intuitive to use:
  • Automatic generation of a routine test protocol based upon job demands.
  • Integrated Dictionary of Occupational Titles database.
  • Audio/video instruction guides the user and the client through the program.
  • Voice and photograph instructions ensure objectivity is maintained./li>
  • Touch screen technology to operate the protocols./li>
  • Maintenance and operation are incredibly simple.
  • Standard USB connections are used to connect each device to the computer.
  • Routines are customizable to meet each market and treatment requirement.
  • “ERGOS® Informed consent” methods are used to assure that all tests are safe and defendable.
• Reports:
  • Full color detailed reports:
    • Test summaries.
    • Test details.
    • Work day capacity.
    • Performance versus job requirements.
    • Extensive comments section and WYSIWYG editor.
  • A4 and Letter paper sizes.
  • Reports can be saved in PDF so they can be emailed to referral sources.
• Compatibility:
  • Designed for Windows XP SP2 or Windows Vista Business (included in our complete system).
• Requirements:
  • Standard 15 AMP electrical outlet.
  • Ability to occasionally connect to an internet connection for remote software updates and support services.