Introduction to Ergonomics & Anthropometrics Core Topic 1: Ergonomics and Human Factors

Human Factors of Design Ergonomics are the comfortable and proper use of a consumer product. How does a designer achieve this? They use anthropometric data sets to guide the design process.

Anthropometry Study of human body properties. Height, mass, volume are some of the main measurements used in the design of consumer goods.

Static vs. Dynamic Anthropometric Data Static (or structural) Data Measurements such as distance between joints, height, weight, etc. Measured using standardized equipment Relatively easy to collect because the subject isn’t moving

Dynamic (Functional) Data The subject is moving Hard to gather but more useful to designers because it helps calculate the range and ease of motion. Reaction times, reach arc, grip strength, etc.

SO WHAT? The quality of anthropometric data is key Best achieved in a STANDARDIZED MANNER A constant method used with methodical processes will help ensure that the data is accurate The data set is only as reliable as the methods/processes used in its collection CI = CO

Range of Sizes v Adjustability Designing for adjustability means that provisions have been made within the design for adjustments to accommodate the anthropometric variability between members of a user group. Can be made using various methods: Mechanical Electrical Pneumatic Hydraulic

Adjustability Usually from the female 5th to the male 95th % Gets 95% of the overall market Problems come from the different shape of people. Not everyone is proportioned in the same way

Making a product in different sizes/having the ability to adjust is a way to accommodate more people. The cost of accommodating ALL people is too great

A word about DATA Primary v Secondary Data Collection Primary Collected by you Secondary Collected by someone else Like the female firefighters from GBR