Study of ergonomics and design of a driving seat in a vehicle considering ergonomics

Abstract

Automotive seats need to accommodate a wide range of driver sizes over relatively long periods of time and provide isolation from vehicle vibration and shock. To fulfill these requirements, there have been remarkable advances in automotive seat design during the past decade incorporating seatback recliners, lumbar support, motorized multi-axes adjustments, and foam cushions. However, these added features have resulted in increased cost and have been used in only a limited number of seating environments. Even with the progress that has been made, however, many drivers continue to experience significant discomfort in automotive seating, and the factors that contribute to long-term discomfort or improved comfort are still not clearly understood. This study will help the auto drivers to reduce back pain and neck pain. The seat that provided with proper support. proper adjustable height. recline or seat hack. suspension and so on. will make the driver feel comfortable while driving the vehicle. It also help in increasing the drivers motivation. Most previous seatback design recommendations have been based on physiological rationales intended to reduce lower-back stresses. However, research has not demonstrated that lumbar supports designed to these specifications actually produce the intended postures. In a recent laboratory study (Reed et al. 1995), the preferred driving postures of volunteer subjects who were selected to be representative of the driving population were measured. The lumbar support geometry of the test seat was varied to determine the effects of changes in lumbar support prominence and vertical adjustability on preferred driving position.