Human needs and human factors

Question 1

What is ergonomics?

Answer 1

Ergonomics concerns the interaction between the human body and products, systems or environments. Product designers are particularly concerned with making products that are easy to use.

Question 2

What are anthropometrics?

Answer 2

Anthropometrics involves using body sizes to improve the ergonomics in products, systems or environments. For example, designers of items such as personal stereos would look at data for hand sizes in order to ensure that the product can be comfortably held, and that the controls are positioned to allow easy operation with finger tips.

Question 3

Name three parts of a kettle that may have ergonomic or anthropometric features

Answer 3

Main handle

Lid

Pouring spout

Flex

Filler gauge

Body

Power switch

Question 4

Name an ergonomic or anthropometric feature for the side mounted handle of a polymer jug kettle

Answer 4

Large chunky handle with plenty of finger space making it easy to grip

Side mounting make pouring easier with comfortable wrist position and no risk of steam going over the hand or body

Question 5

Name an ergonomic or anthropometric feature for the body of a polymer jug kettle

Answer 5

Polymer body acts as an insulator and therefore in the event of touching the hot side of the kettle, although warm, it will not burn the user

Slim design allows one cup boiling and therefore the weight of the kettle when lifting and pouring is reduced

Question 6

Can you give an example of how a domestic product has been adapted to meet the requirements of disabled people?

Answer 6

Kettles with tipping devices for one handed operation

Tap lever attachments to aid opening and closing taps

Hand controls fitted to cars to enable acceleration or braking instead of using foot pedal controls

Question 7

Legislation now requires architects involved in planning new public buildings, such as schools, libraries and hospitals, to ensure access and facilities for disabled people. Can you give an example?

Answer 7

Car parking
Are there clearly marked disabled parking spaces near the entrance?
Are the parking spaces wide enough apart to allow for wheelchair users to get in and out of cars?