Design Technology · A1 People

DTA1.1 — Ergonomics

Design Technology · SL / HL · syllabus-mapped notes

1. DTA1.1.1

   What ergonomics is

   Ergonomics is the relationship and interaction between people (aspects of the human body) and the products, systems and environments they use.

2. DTA1.1.2

   Anthropometrics

   Anthropometrics involves the measurement of human physical dimensions expressed in the percentile range. This method specifically focuses on determining and presenting the range of individuals’ physical characteristics.

3. DTA1.1.3

   Percentiles

   Percentiles aid in the selection of appropriate anthropometric data to satisfy the majority of a user population.

4. DTA1.1.4

   Adjustability and range of sizes

   To ensure products are appropriate to a range of percentiles, designers can choose to design products to be adjustable and/or to be produced in a range of sizes.

5. DTA1.1.5

   Work envelopes, reach and clearance

   In design, consideration must be given to work envelopes, reach, clearance, adjustability and range of sizes.

6. DTA1.1.6

   Physiology

   Physiology is the study of systems and biomechanics within the human body, their responses, limitations and capabilities.

7. DTA1.1.7

   Psychology

   Psychology is concerned with the study of the human mind and involves the study of all the human senses that may be involved in sending information to the brain.