Obesity Effects on Preferred Driving Postures and Vehicle Interior Component Settings

Abstract

The effects of obesity were investigated with a highly adjustable vehicle mock-up. 44 participants (23 non-obese, 21 extremely obese individuals) were involved in the study. The extremely obese and non-obese group had similar gender compositions and stature characteristics. This study found obesity effects on interior component settings, twelve joint angles and hip joint center position. The significant results are as follows: extremely obese drivers needed more space from steering wheel to seat – extremely obese drivers had greater Seat displacement (Seat X), greater Steering wheel tilt angle and smaller steering wheel column displacement. Also, extremely obese people preferred a smaller Seat back angle. Hip joint center position and most of the joint angles except elbow angles were not significantly different between extremely obese and non-obese individuals. This study suggested new direction for future vehicle design, namely, that considering obesity effects for vehicle interior design is necessary.