INTD 59universal & ergonomic design

definition of termsuniversal design:the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need of adaptation or specialized design

--Ron Mace, founder Center for Universal Design

ergonomics:Human engineering, science of dealing with the application of information on physical and psychological characteristics to the design of devices and systems for human use. Its data and principles apply to activities of the home, the workplace, and recreation.

both encourage spatial design that minimizes physical stress on the body

definition of termsanthropometric data: body dimensions—structural & static

client specific data crucial

posture & movement—poor posture & movement often lead to stress of neck, back, shoulders, and wrists

function of bones—when you are standing erect with good posture, internal organs can function properly

joints as levers—design to keep joints in the neutral position whenever possible (cooktop height for stirring)

definition of termsstructural (static) dimensions—•size of head, size of eye pupil, torso measurements & limb sizes•have minimal impact on kitchen & bath design

functional (dynamic) dimensions—•body movement associated to certain tasks•cabinet layout, appliance selection & placement, lighting, & clearances all affected by person’s ability to reach and move•assessment gives designer necessary info to design a space that fits the client whether tall, short, young, old, wheelchair assisted or mobility-device-using

assessment methods & techniquesthe weight of items you lift, turn with, bend to reach, and pull down from above is a controlling factor in minimizing body stress, strain & injury

factors causing fatigue & stress on the body can be positively dealt with through design

by creating environments conducive to good posture & body mechanics, the designer enables the client to maintain better body health & avoid injuries

the underlying assumption that most users are “normal adults” in fundamentally flawed—humans are not homogenous; rather they are diverse in capability & characteristics

assessment methods & techniquesto gather necessary data, analyze movement for certain tasks—an individual’s ability to access space, and to work and move within that space greatly influences the design

explain to your client the purpose of the measurements & the benefits of ergonomic design—set yourself apart from other designers

line of sight:clear vision of control panels, appliance interiors, food being prepared & cooked, stored items, traffic patterns and furniture

light levels? natural & artificial light? glasses?

assessment methods & techniquesability to reach:measure the distance from the floor to the elbow bent at 90 degrees—indicates the height best suited to use large muscle sets

safe access into space in appliances, cabinetry, & counter surfaces is achieved with good balance & flexibility

ability to stand? reach up, down & out?

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assessment methods & techniquesagility:relates directly to his or her ability to perform tasks

observe how clients move with the space—note any comments about what is not working for them & determine if this is spatial or motion related

sound levels:ask how client perceives sound

hearing aids?ventilation fans bothersome?

ergonomic solutions for kitchens & bathkitchens:•raised dishwasher•side-by-side ovens•built-in steamer•matte counter surfaces•sink with mid-level rack positions•varied counter heights•lower cooktop•screening of light sources•resilient floor covering•soundproof materials

ergonomic solutions for kitchens & bathbathrooms:•shower seat•grab bars•hand shower•thermostatic pressure valve•shampoo niches•valves & tub faucet on front side•dressing table•different vanity heights•barrier-free shower entrance•walk-in tubs•radiant heat in floor or ceiling•nonslip floor covering•light fixtures that illuminate either side of face

ergonomic storage solutionsencourages good body mechanics when retrieving cookware, food and appliances

improves safety by encouraging use of good posture & larger muscle sets

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