'Expecting': occupant model incorporating anthropometric details of pregnant women. (24th August 2009)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Acar, B. Serpil; Weekes, Alix; Van Lopik, David
• Is Part Of: International journal of vehicle design. Volume 51:Number 3/4(2009)
• Page Start: 374
• Page End: 385
• Publication Date: 2009-08-24
• Subjects: pregnant women -- occupants -- occupant modelling -- driver -- vehicle safety -- comfort -- female anthropometry -- vehicle design -- pregnancy; Motor vehicles -- Design and construction -- Periodicals; 629.231
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0143-3369

Abstract

This study reports the research for a design tool related to pregnant women's safety during car travel. Anthropometric measurements are taken to generate an occupant model incorporating pregnancy related changes. These anthropometric changes mean that a pregnant occupant may be excluded by the designs, based upon non-pregnant female anthropometry. The paper explains the generation of a comprehensive parametric computer aided model of a pregnant occupant, 'Expecting'. The model can represent different size pregnant occupants as well as the size differences occurring in standing and seated postures. This model can be used as a design tool for automotive designers to help ensure that vehicle designs can accommodate the anthropometric needs of pregnant occupants.