Module Code - Title:
PD4003
-
ERGONOMICS FOUNDATION
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
Upon completion of this module students will be able to;
Explain the ergonomics approach.
Compute basic statistical metrics to describe inter individual differences in physical and cognitive abilities.
Apply statistical data describing populations abilities in the design of products or work systems.
Explain the physiological basis of energy liberation in the cardiovascular system.
Understand the basis for human motor control and be able to explain and apply Fitts equation.
Derive an expression to explain information processing rates in humans and apply the theory in the design of displays and controls.
Syllabus:
History of Ergonomics
Domains of specialisation in ergonomics.
Human variability and user fit, anthropometry, conducting anthropometric surveys, fitting trials, the normal distribution and statistical aspect of variability, standards in anthropometry.
Minority groups, needs of older and younger people, user centred design, inclusive design, design for all.
Biomechanics of body forces, hand tool design, internal and external forces of the upper limb, muscle fatigue, endurance models, modelling fatigue. Psychophysical studies of user physical interaction, theories of comfort and discomfort, repetitive strain injuries, conducting studies, Ethics and user studies.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
Upon completion of this module students will be able to;
1. Explain the ergonomics approach
2. Compute basic statistical metrics to describe inter individual differences in physical and cognitive abilities
3. Apply statistical data describing populations abilities in the design of products or work systems
4. Explain the physiological basis of energy liberation in the cardiovascular system
5. Understand the basis for human motor control and be able to explain and apply Fitts equation
6. Derive an expression to explain information processing rates in humans and apply the theory in the design of displays and controls
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
N/A
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
Prime Texts:
Chaffin, D., Andersson, G.B.J. and Martin, B.J. (2027)
Occupational Biomechanics, 5th Ed.
, Wiley, NY.
Bridger, R. (2023)
Introduction to Ergonomics (4th Ed)
, Taylor and Francis, London.
Astrand, P, Rodahl, K., Dahl, H.A. and Stromme, S.B. (2003)
Textbook of Work Physiology, (4th Ed)
, Human Kinetics, IL.
Pheasant, S. and Haslegrave, C., (2005)
Bodyspace (4th Ed).
, Taylor and Francis, London.
Kroemer, K.H.E. (2006)
Fitting the Human
, CRC Press, London
Other Relevant Texts:
Frievalds, A. (2004)
Biomechanics of the Upper Limbs: Mechanics, Modeling and Musculoskeletal Injuries
, CRC Press, London.
Konz, S. and Johnson, S. (2008)
Work Design, Occupational Ergonomics,
, Halcom Hathaway, Arizona.
Kroemer, K.H.E. (2010)
Engineering Physiology: Bases of Human Factors/Ergonomics, 4th Ed.
, Springer, New York
McCauley, P. (2012)
Ergonomics: Foundational principles, applications and technologies
, CRC Press, London.
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING IN DESIGN AND MANUFACTURE
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PRODUCT DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Module Leader:
Leonard.OSullivan@ul.ie