Ergonomics

Overview

Vehicle ergonomics is part of the concept design phase.

Operating space and vision has a major influence to the design (exterior and instrument panel).

A satisfactory ergonomic solution is synonymous with the final vehicle’s customer perception.

The Ergonomic Process

Part of the package development is to establish the seating positions for the occupants and other ergonomic criteria, such as, satisfactory ingress / egress and tailgate operation.

A key function is to set up the driver position and its surrounding environment. This must be safe and legally compliant.

Comfortable accommodation for all drivers (from 5% female to 95% male) is imperative. Seat adjustment range is established.

The SAE manikin is used mainly to set up the manikin positions, but in line with some customer procedures, the DIN standard manikin and 3D software (such as Rhamsis) are sometimes supplemented.

Driver’s vision, reach and operating clearances are established in line with the customer’s own standards (or our own, if they do not exist) and all applicable legislation.

An ergonomic seating buck is often built for a jury to appraise the ergonomics. A selection of personnel that embraces the full range of percentiles is used is used for this evaluation.

Benchmarking of competitive vehicles often occurs.

Stadco Design’s past experience includes establishing seating positions, carrying out ergonomic checks and building ergonomic bucks for appraisal.