HFE UNIT 7 : Anthropometry

Human Factors Ergonomic

Anthropometry

The scientific study of human body measurements, such as height, weight, and reach, used in designing equipment, workspaces, and products that fit human physical characteristics.

Structural Anthropometry

Body measurements taken in standard, static positions (e.g., standing height, shoulder width).

Functional Anthropometry

Measurements taken while the body is in motion or performing tasks (e.g., reach while seated).

Human Variability

Differences in body size and shape due to factors such as age, gender, ethnicity, occupation, and generation.

Percentile

A statistical value indicating the relative position of a measurement in a population (e.g., 5th percentile means 5% of people are smaller and 95% are larger).

Design for Extreme

Designing to accommodate the smallest or largest users in a population (e.g., 5th or 95th percentile).

Design for Adjustability

Creating products or environments that can be adjusted to suit a wide range of users.

Design for Average

Using average anthropometric values for design when adjustability or extreme design is not practical.

Clearance Requirement

The space needed for the largest users to move or fit comfortably, often designed using 95th percentile data.

Reach Requirement

Ensuring that the smallest users can comfortably access controls or workspaces, typically using 5th percentile data.

Visibility and Normal Line of Sight

Design principle placing displays within 10–15° below the horizontal eye level for optimal visibility.

Component Arrangement Principle

Guidelines for placing controls and displays based on frequency of use, importance, and logical sequence.

The Measure of Man and Woman

A widely-used anthropometric reference book for design specifications and dimensions.

Transient Diurnal Variability

Fluctuations in body size or posture during the day, such as morning vs evening height or weight.

Mock-up

A full-scale model used to test and evaluate the ergonomic fit of a design before final production.