Applied research using the NIOSH lifting equation to optimize the design of shopping trolley for the elderly

In the context of an aging society, products for the elderly typically need to meet the criteria of ease of use and reduction of physical fatigue. Focusing on elderly shopping scene, combined with the ergonomic principles and JACK simulation software analysis, a method of mapping NIOSH lifting equation to the product optimization design is proposed to optimize the dimensions and styling design of the elderly shopping trolley as a carrier, to optimize length, depth, and basket height from the ground. When the handle height of the elderly shopping cart is adjustable to three levels: 795 mm, 908 mm, and 1021 mm, it can effectively reduce the pressure on the lower limbs. With a basket size of 380 mm  \(\times\)  340 mm  \(\times\)  480 mm and a ground clearance of 470 mm, the risk of lower back pain for elderly users can be significantly mitigated, enhancing the user experience of the elderly shopping cart. The optimized design of the elderly shopping cart effectively alleviates the movement burden on elderly users and provides new insights for the ergonomic optimization of other similar products.