Anthropometrics is the measurement of human dimensions, proportions, postures, and ranges of motion. It is useful for designing workplaces, tools, furniture, and clothing. Anthropometric data describes human limitations and biomechanical issues. Most body dimensions follow a normal distribution across populations, with standard deviations around mean values. Anthropometric measurements need to be standardized, reliable, and valid. Data comes from sources like Pheasant & Haslegrave (2005) and self-collected data. Anthropometry is applied by designing for average individuals, the largest/smallest percentiles, or the entire population including those with disabilities.

1. Anthropometrics
Loisa Sessman, Högskolan i Halmstad

2. Anthropometrics
Anthropometrics
- Anthropos = human
- Metons = measurement
Anthropometry observes human dimensions and proportions, bodypostures,
reach, space for movement etc.
Useful when designing workplaces and tools
Useful when designing furniture and clothes
The anthropometric data describes the human limitations and biomechanical
problems
Loisa Sessman, Högskolan i Halmstad

3. Anthropometrics
Dimensions are statistically and normal distributed across a population for
the majority of dimensions in the human body (mean value and standard
deviation).
Body weight and muscle strength are not included
Anthropometric measurement
– Standardization
– Reliability
– Validity
Data
– Pheasant & Haslegrave, 2005
– Self-collected data
Loisa Sessman, Högskolan i Halmstad

4. Anthropometrics
Apply anthropometry
– Designing for the largest individuals
– Designing for the smallest individuals
– Design for all
– Designing for the average individual
– Designing for disability and special populations.
Percentile
– A value that is used to specify a population regarding what to design
– Example : 95th percentile includes 95 % of the population.
Loisa Sessman, Högskolan i Halmstad

5. Anthropometrics
Example of an anthropometric curve
Loisa Sessman, Högskolan i Halmstad

6. Example of anthropometric curve - stature
20
18
16
14
12
10 Women
Men
8
6
4
2
0
150-155 156-160 161-165 166-170 171-175 176-180 181-185 186-190 191-195 195-200
Loisa Sessman, Högskolan i Halmstad