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

2. 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.

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

4. 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

5. 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.

6. 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

7. 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

10. 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

11. 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

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