Env Design
Anthropometry
Physical characteristics of the body:
Volume
Center of Gravity
Intertia
Masses of specific body segements
Two types of body measurements:
Static Dimensions
Measures of body in fixed (static) position (eg. Skeleton; head circumference)
Vary with age, sex, ethnicity
Functional (Dynamic) Dimensions
Measured under conditions of movement or activity (eg. Operating steering wheel, using a mouse)
Can use somatography to show multiple angles and views of a person in action
Engineering Anthropometry -- the application of above data (body measurements) to the design of the things people use.
Applications/How to Apply Anthropometry to Design
Represent the population (not all items can be designed "one size fits all")
Three (3) Principles of Applying Anthropometry to Design
Design for Extreme Individuals
Accommodate for all persons by designing for the biggest possible extreme in weight, height, etc.
Can accommodate most within reason
Designing for Adjustable Range
Adjustable chairs, eg. Is preferred method but not always possible
Designing for the Average
Sometimes considered a "cop-out" because there is no average person
Sometimes necessary, as with counter heights at stores
Complexity of Multiple Dimensions/Measures...
Env Design The field of ergonomics takes into account the following: Anthropometrics (body measurements) Biomechanics and physiology Environmental Ergonomics. Cognitive ergonomics Ergonomics design and evaluation Ergonomics specific needs Ergonomics law Three Components of Ergonomics and Environmental / Interior Design • Anthropometry: body size, strength, shape, and work capacity. • Ergonomics: study of behavior and activities of people; adapting systems and workstations to the needs of users; different applications in various fields such as biomechanics, environmental, cognitive science • Relation to Environmental /
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