Work-Space Design Rebecca W. Boren, Ph.D. IEE 437/547 Introduction to Human Factors Engineering Arizona State University November 14, 2011

Designing for Computer Users

Visibility and Normal Line of Sight

 Normal line of sight is the preferred direction of gaze when the eyes are at a resting condition.  Most researchers consider it to be about degrees below the horizontal plane.  Visual displays should be placed within +/- 15 degrees in radius around the normal line of sight. This is called the Primary Viewing Area.

Arrangements of Elements  Computer keyboard  Monitor  Computer CPU  Printer  Mouse  Phone  Supplies (paper & envelopes)

Should follow the principles of multiple display design from Chapter 8  Frequency of use  Importance of use  Sequence of use  Consistency  Controls should be close to their displays  Clutter avoidance  Functional Grouping

Seated Work Good posture Adjustable chair with support Document holders

Seated Work For prolonged work, sitting is preferred. It is a less strained posture that eliminates excessive load on the body that may lead to fluid retention in the lower legs

Seated Work A seated posture is easier to maintain and much less of a strain to the body. It also allows for better- controlled arm movements, provides a stronger sense of balance and safety, and improves blood circulation (with a good chair).

Seated Posture For seated work the back should be in a slight lordosis position.

Seated Work  Sitting in a sedentary position for long periods of time can cause low- back problems.  All workers need to take frequent breaks and move around often.

Posture This is a good position But the angle should be 110 degrees, not 125.

Leap Ergonomic Chair By Steelcase $850 A Good Chair is Essential

Ergohuman Chair TheHumanSolution.com $607 Click on picture to see a demonstration by a certified ergonomist.

Eurotech Apollo $229 A good chair does not have to be expensive.

A Good Ergonomic Chair A basic computer chair can be enhanced by (1) trying it out in the store. It does not have to be completely adjustable if it already fits you. (2) Lumbar support can be enhanced by a lumbar pillow.

Seated Work  Work surface inclination  Most workers prefer a horizontal surface for writing  And, an inclined (15 degrees) surface for reading.

Seated Posture Back is bent. Feet should be flat on the floor.

Seated Work chin in neck flexion 5-10 º keep lumbar lordosis Hip º Tibia perpendicular to the floor foot flat on the floor BM03/BMoccupation/SeatedWork. htm

Standing Work  For standing work, use of floor mats and shoes with cushioned soles help increase comfort.  Work area must be at the proper height.

Standing Posture

Choosing a Chair  It should be adjustable  Try it out  Invest $ (only what you can afford)

Avoid these types of chairs

Ouch!

Office Environment  Air quality

Office Environment  Noise level

Ergonomic chairs can be good.

Good Ergonomic Accessories Homemedics Seat cushion Gel mouse pad Ergo beads Lumbar support Copy holder

Laptop ergonomics are overlooked Ikea $20 Herman Miller Scooter $300 Typing Table

Ergonomic Keyboards are NOT necessary.

Eliminate the slope of the keyboard by putting the feet down. Regular keyboards can be fine.

Warning Be careful about claims that a product is “ergonomic.” If you know the principles, you can judge for yourself.

Your workstation should adjust to you. Remember: Adjustable

What does your workstation look like?

Extra Credit can be earned by submitting a description of your workstation (5 points) and a picture (an additional 5 points). See detailsSee details.

Questions?