Implementing spring-foam technology to design a lightweight and comfortable aircraft seat-pan. (February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dangal, S.; Smulders, M.; Vink, P.
• Is Part Of: Applied ergonomics. Volume 91(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-02
• Subjects: Pressure distribution -- Comfort -- Aircraft seat -- Ideal seat contour; Human engineering -- Periodicals; 620.82
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2020.103174
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-6870

Abstract

Abstract: This paper investigates whether spring-foam technology in an aircraft seat-pan can reduce weight and at the same time provide equal or better comfort. Firstly, through literature studies and using an iterative design process a prototype seat-pan was designed and developed using spring-foam technology. The (dis)comfort of this seat was compared with a standard aircraft seat-pan. Twenty two participants were asked to sit in each seat for 90 min, completing a questionnaire every 15 min. At the end of each seating session pressure map recordings were made of the seat-pans. The results showed that the prototype seat-pan has on average a significantly higher comfort for the first 30 min and at a 60 min recording than the standard seat-pan. The discomfort and long term comfort were not significantly influenced. The pressure distribution on the prototype seat-pan was significantly closer to an ideal pressure distribution than a conventional seat-pan. In addition, the prototype seat-pan had a significantly larger contact area and lower average pressure. The seat-cushion weighs 20% less than the conventional seat-cushion. The study indicates that a seat-pan design using spring-foam technology can be lighter and more comfortable than conventional foam cushion materials. It is recommended to optimize the prototype seat further and conduct long term (dis)comfort studies with a broader variation in subjects' age. Highlights: Indication of more comfortable and using spring-foam cushion is observed. Lighter seat could be produced by using human body shaped contour seat-pan. Indication of higher comfort with higher contact area and is observed. Indication of higher comfort with lower average pressure and is observed. Higher comfort is observed when seat is closer to ideal pressure distribution.