Ergonomics in Alternative Vehicle Design: Educating Students on the Practical Application of Anthropometric Data

Abstract

An instructor taught students to use industry-standard anthropometric data sets by applying them to a long-term, alternative vehicle design project within industrial design courses. Students learned how to verify existing anthropometric data through physical testing using three-dimensional mock-ups to produce a robust, anthropometrically appropriate model that balances multiple design constraints. As a practical exercise, students examined aesthetics and control interface of the vehicle interior focusing on human interaction, optimum comfort, and control within the confined constraints of the aerodynamically optimized vehicle packaging. Ultimately, students gained insights into how to apply ergonomics to new, varied design challenges through these educational tasks.