Unit-05 (Ergonomics and Aesthetic consideration in design)

by Prof. Rajiv Ranjan(G.P.Katihar)

Aesthetics is a branch of philosophy dealing with the nature of art, beauty, and taste, with the
creation and appreciation of beauty.
aesthetics includes factors such as balance, color, movement, pattern, scale, shape and visual weight.
Designers use aesthetics to complement their designs' usability, and so enhance functionality with
attractive layouts

Ergonomics is defined as “that branch of science that is concerned with the achievement of optimal
relationships between workers and their work environment”. It is also called as human
engineering or human factors.
Ergonomics is defined as the relationship between man and machine and the application ofanatomical,
physiological and psychological principles to solve the problems arising from man-machine relationship. The
word‘ergonomics’ is coined from two Greek words ‘ ergon’ , which means ‘work ’ and ‘ nomos’ , which
means‘natural laws’. Ergonomics means natural laws of work.
 The Scope of Ergonomics:
The scope of Ergonomics is tremendously wide and is not restricted to any particular industry or relevance.
Ergonomics move towards everything which engrosses people. Work systems, sports and leisure, health and
safety all symbolize ergonomics principles if well intended. The capability of people to do their job is influenced
by the person’s potential (physical and mental), the job demand (physical and mental) and the condition
(physical and organizational environment) under which the person is carrying out the job.

Objectives of the Ergonomics

It is to augment the efficacy with which work and other human activities are carried out and to preserve or
improve certain desirable human values in the process, health, safety, satisfaction etc.,

Aspects of Ergonomics:
There are five aspects of ergonomics:-
1) Safety
2) Comfort
3) Ease of use
4) Productivity/performance

Aesthetics Ergonomics is beneficially applied in subsequent three areas:

1.Design of Man-Machine Systems: A man-machine system is a system where one or more workmen/ human
beings work in relation with one or more machines, devices or equipment. Thus a worker drilling a hole in a job
or a person using a hammer to drive a nail in a wooden job (an article being manufactured is an example of a
man- machine system as far as ergonomics is concerned.

Such systems could be productive systems as well as service systems such as a post office or fire fighting
system or a dispensary etc. Ergonomics is applied to adapt such systems so as to provide maximum job
satisfaction and comfort and minimum physiological and mental load to the operator of the system.

2. Design of Consumer Goods and Service Systems: Ergonomics is applicable in the design of consumer
goods starting from design of tooth brush and other items such as dinning set; sofa set; kitchen ware, house hold
fittings table and shoes etc. Similarly protective equipment such as safety goggles, adverse weather and space
clothing, gloves, crash helmets, fire fighting and industrial hazard protection and appliances etc. should also be
economically sound.

3.Design of Working Environment: While designing a proper working environment for work force/workers
at work, the various factors related with ergonomics such as human endurance of illumination, pollution, noise
heating and ventilation should be taken into consideration. This aspect should be taken into consideration at each
stage right design up to real utilization or actual service.All factors concerned with environments such as design
of work benches, public transport, road systems, town and country planning, personnel, neighbourhood, as well
as airports etc. should be subjected to ergonomic analysis.

System can be improved by

From design considerations, the topics of ergonomic studies are as follows:-

1. Anatomical factors in design of drivers seat
2. Layout of instrumental dials and display panels for accurate perception by the operators.
3.Design of hand levers and hand wheels.
4. Energy expenditure in hand and foot operations.
5.Lighting, noise and climatic conditions in machine environment.

The aim of ergonomics is to reduce the operational difficulties present in man-machine joint system and thereby,
reduce the resulting physical and mental stress
Thus Aesthetics and ergonomics are two important aspects of product design. Aesthetics is concerned with
the beauty or appeal of a product, while ergonomics is concerned with the comfort and usability of a
product.

Aesthetics and ergonomics are often seen as competing priorities, but they can actually be complementary.
A well-designed product can be both aesthetically pleasing and ergonomically sound. In fact, studies have
shown that people are more likely to use a product if they find it aesthetically pleasing.

There are a number of ways to incorporate both aesthetics and ergonomics into product design. :-
1)One way is to use materials and colors that are pleasing to the eye.
2) Another way is to design products that are easy to use and comfortable to interact with.

By considering both aesthetics and ergonomics, designers can create products that are both beautiful and
functional. This can lead to increased user satisfaction and, ultimately, increased sales.

The factors that are considered, a product is more likely to be successful Ergonomics and aesthetics are:-

1)Shape and form: The shape and form of a product can affect its ergonomics and aesthetics. For example,
a product with a curved shape is more likely to be comfortable to hold than a product with a sharp edge.

2)Color: Color can also affect the ergonomics and aesthetics of a product. For example, bright colors can
be stimulating and energizing, while muted colors can be calming and relaxing.

3)Texture: Texture can also affect the ergonomics and aesthetics of a product. For example, a product
with a soft, smooth texture is more likely to be comfortable to touch than a product with a rough, hard
texture.

4)Weight: The weight of a product can also affect its ergonomics and aesthetics. For example, a
lightweight product is easier to carry and use than a heavy product.

5)Size: The size of a product can also affect its ergonomics and aesthetics. For example, a product that is
the right size for the user is more likely to be comfortable to use than a product that is too big or too small.

By considering all of these factors, designers can create products that are both functional and appealing.
This can lead to increased user satisfaction and, ultimately, increased sales.
Question:
Describe the importance of aesthetic considerations in design related to shape, colour and surface
finish.

Answer: Regarding shape:-

1) The shape should not be like blocks but various forms like sculpture, streamlined, aerodynamic,
taper should be used.

2) The component should be symmetrical at lean about one axis.

3) proper shape of a product help to make the product more attractive.

4) The shape of the product should be regular, even & proportionate

Regarding Colour: -1) The colour and shape of component should be such that in should attract
appeal and impress customer.

4) The colour should match with conventions, moods e.g. red for danger, gray for dull, yellow for
cautions, green for safe etc.

5) Too bright colour should be avoided.

4) The colour should be compatible with conventional ideas of the operator.

Regarding Surface finish :- 1) Products with better surface finish are always aesthetically pleasing’

2) The surface coating processes like spray painting, anodizing, electroplating etc greatly the aesthetic
appeal of product