The most significant lesson I learn during this week’s lectures is how to use Anthropometric data and how the data can be effectively applied in the design of different items that human beings interact with on a daily basis. In future, I plan to be an engineering designer. I will use anthropometry for the design of school chairs and tables by taking into consideration of the human factors of the students.
The most important anthropometric data in the design of the students' furniture include the knee height, the shoulder height, the elbow height, the buttock-popliteal, the body weight and the stature. The fifth lower percentile regarding the buttock-popliteal length and the seat height are the recommended measurements to use while designing the school furniture. This is primary because using the measurements in the percentile then the chairs and desk will be able to accommodate a huge percentage of users including the short individuals in the population.
While designing the chairs the other important factor I would consider is the breadth of the seats. In order to accommodate a large percentage of the user population then I would use the 95th percentile of the breadth measurements of the students in a particular school level for example the fifth grade (Fryar and Ogden). Using the larger percentile will ensure obese and big-bodied students can sit and learn comfortably. Looking at the data provided by the Department of Health and Human Services it is quite easy to note that the anthropometric data have significant variations a clear indication that there is the need to develop a universal and realistic standard of the learning equipment. Incorporating the data in the design process is key to maintaining a healthy population of the students (Fryar and Ogden).
Work cited
Fryar, Cheryl and Ogden, Cynthia. Anthropometric Reference Data for Children and Adults: United States, 2007–2010. Oct. 2012. Web. 29 Apr. 2016.
