Use of soft tissue properties for ergonomic product design

Abstract

In order to achieve better comfort and fit for designed products it is important to understand the product and user interface and to analyze the interaction at the region of contact. Study of biomechanical properties of soft tissue can provide a good insight of this interface between user and the product. Biomechanical properties can help the designers in material selection which can improve the comfort and fit and help in serving the purpose of the designed product. A sample study of soft tissue thickness of human head and face was conducted using an ultrasound indentation device at selected locations. Results showed the variation in soft tissue thickness levels, which was further used to discuss the role of soft tissue properties in the field of ergonomic product design.