Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
is 10.6 and 17.7 cm, respectively, a small female operator will not have enough
space, but a large male will be able to fit his legs under the table.
5. It is sometimes difficult to illustrate a work situation using an anthropometric model.
Anthropometric measures are static, and in the real world there are many dynamic
elements. Operators reach for tools and parts, and swing around in their chairs. To
evaluate the dynamic aspects of a workstation appropriately, one may construct a full-
scale mock-up out of cardboard or styrofoam. This can be done in a couple of hours.
The purpose is to have people of different sizes testing out the workstation by moving
their bodies and simulating the task. Through the full-scale mockup it may be possible
to identify features of the workstation which need to be redesigned.
8.5
NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODELS
FOR ANTHROPOMETRIC DESIGN
During the last 10 years there has been a rapid development of three-dimensional data
models of the human body. Measures of the full body—or part of the body, such as the
face—may be taken using instruments that employ laser scanning. The person is standing
on a platform and several laser scanners rotate around the body (see Figure 8.8). Many
experts believe that this methodology will eventually replace the traditional measurement
of anthropometric data.
An international consortium, Civilian American and European Surface Anthropometry
Resource (CAESAR), developed a computer-based methodology for scanning human
dimensions in three-dimensional perspective using laser technology. The initiative was
supported by the U.S. Air Force and the Society of Automotive Engineering (SAE). In
addition, several multinational corporations, in particular manufacturers of vehicles,
aircraft, and clothes, participated as members of the consortium (Robinette et al., 2002).
There are several advantages for using this technology. In the first place, there is a
great need for anthropometric data which can be used for a variety of applications,
including workstation layout, automobile design, apparel sizing, protective equipment
design, safety assessment, and cockpit design, to name just a few. By using three-
dimensional models rather than specific human measures, one can define the specific
measures that are needed for design. It is no longer necessary to add up individual
measures.
Measurements are quicker to take than with the traditional methods that use
measurement tapes and calipers. Although there is a substantial investment in laser
measurement equipment, this methodology may be less expensive in the long run.
One main argument behind a laser model of human dimensions is that nobody is 5th,
50th, or 95th percentile in all measures. This becomes increasingly important for design,
which uses several measures of the body. For example, the design of a fighter aircraft
cockpit presents a very tight environment, and some 15 to 20 measures must be taken to
represent each pilot. The same arguments hold for design of clothes, which any tailor can
testify to.
