Ergonomics and anthropometrics Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is ergonomics?
Ergonomics is the study of how products, systems, and environments can be designed to fit the people who use them, making them safe, comfortable, and efficient.
Why is ergonomics important in product design?
It ensures products are comfortable, safe, and easy to use, improving user satisfaction and reducing the risk of injury or discomfort.
What is anthropometrics?
Anthropometrics is the collection and use of body measurements to inform product design and ensure products fit the intended user population.
Give an example of an anthropometric measurement.
Hand length, head circumference, or arm reach.
How do designers use anthropometric data?
They use it to determine appropriate sizes, positions, and dimensions for products to suit a range of users.
What is the relationship between people and products in product design?
Products must be designed to suit the physical, emotional, and practical needs of the people who will use them.
Give an example of a product that has been designed with ergonomics in mind.
An adjustable office chair with lumbar support and height adjustment.
How can poor ergonomics affect a product’s performance?
It can cause discomfort, make a product difficult or unsafe to use, and lead to user dissatisfaction or injury.
Why is it important to consider the intended user when designing a product?
Different users have different needs, abilities, and preferences, which influence how they interact with a product.
How does ergonomics improve product usability?
By ensuring controls, grips, and seating are comfortable, logically positioned, and easy to use, reducing strain and increasing efficiency.
Name one way a designer might gather ergonomic information.
Through user trials, questionnaires, observation, or by referencing ergonomic guidelines.
What are the benefits of using anthropometric data in product design?
It ensures products are appropriately sized and positioned for a range of users, improving comfort, safety, and usability.
How can anthropometric data influence the design of a mobile phone?
It can determine the size of buttons, screen dimensions, and grip comfort to suit the hand sizes of users.
What does ‘percentile’ mean in anthropometrics?
A statistical value showing the position of a measurement within a population, such as the 5th, 50th, or 95th percentile.
Why might a designer use the 5th and 95th percentiles when designing a product?
To ensure the product is suitable for the majority of users, accommodating those at the smaller and larger ends of the scale.
How does the relationship between product and user influence design decisions?
It affects the product’s size, shape, control positions, materials, and safety features to suit the user’s needs and abilities.
Give an example of how poor anthropometric consideration can cause product failure.
A chair with a seat height too tall for most users, making it uncomfortable and impractical to use.
What is meant by ‘user-centred design’?
A design approach that prioritises the needs, preferences, and limitations of the end-user throughout the development process.
Why is it important to test ergonomic features with actual users?
To identify any issues with comfort, safety, or usability and gather feedback for improvement.
How can ergonomics and anthropometrics work together in product design?
Anthropometric data informs the dimensions and layout, while ergonomics ensures these measurements support comfort, ease of use, and safety.
