ERGONOMIC EVALUATION OF CAR SEAT DESIGN USING RULA: A CASE STUDY OF THE UTEM SHELL ECO-MARATHON VEHICLE
Keywords:
Ergonomic, Human Posture, Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD), Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), CATIAAbstract
Ergonomic seat design is essential in automotive engineering to minimize musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and enhance driver comfort, particularly in compact vehicles such as Shell Eco-Marathon prototypes. This study applies the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) framework to evaluate the ergonomic risks associated with the Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM) Shell Eco-Marathon car seat. Using CATIA-based modelling and Malaysian anthropometric data, driver posture was analyzed before and after seat modifications. The initial reclined seating position imposed elevated risks on the upper limbs due to extended leg posture and forward arm reach, resulting in a moderate RULA score of 3. A revised upright seating design improved spinal alignment, reduced shoulder elevation, and redistributed ergonomic risks resulting in a lower final score of 2. These adjustments achieved qualitative improvements in posture neutrality and driver comfort. The findings confirm RULA as a reliable tool for guiding ergonomic refinements in seat design and emphasize the importance of integrating anthropometric data into automotive ergonomics.
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