Ergonomic assessment and evaluation of driver seat in public transport vehicles: a case study in Indian scenario
摘要
This study addresses the pressing requirement to enhance the ergonomic quality of bus driver seats in India by combining traditional engineering evaluation methods with ergonomic assessment techniques to inform design improvements. A comprehensive methodology is adopted, integrating Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), finite element analysis (FEA), and a customized questionnaire to document the real-world experiences and expectations of drivers, many of whom report lower back discomfort and general dissatisfaction with existing seating systems. The findings reveal notable discrepancies between current seat configurations and recommended Indian anthropometric benchmarks. To overcome these limitations, the research introduces a comprehensive seat development strategy that balances structural integrity, ergonomic performance, and driver-centered input. The primary objective is to create seating solutions that meet safety requirements while simultaneously improving comfort and minimizing the risk of musculoskeletal issues. What distinguishes this work is its integrated analytical framework, which combines biomechanical evaluation with ergonomic insights to guide design refinement. This adaptable approach has the potential to be implemented across different regions, contributing to improved occupational health standards within public transportation environments.