Pattern of pressure distribution on the car seat under static condition and its relationship with driving posture

Abstract

Assessment of sitting condition on the car seat is important as the driver requires to remain seated while maneuvering the car. The seating situation with relatively restricted position and posture can lead to discomfort and fatigue among drivers. When the driver is getting fatigue, it may reduce the performance, and hence increase the risk of road accident. Up to this date, numerous study were conducted to solve this issue. However, majority of these studies performed the study in the laboratory. Furthermore, majority of the experiment were not used the actual car and provide clear interaction between driving posture and pressure distribution pattern. Hence, this study aims to determine the onset level of driver’s condition in term of discomfort rating scale and pressure distribution on the car seat under static condition by using actual car. Forty-four participants involved in this study by integrating discomfort rating assessment for the subjective evaluation and Pressure Sensor for the objective assessment. There were two main sections for subjective assessment that required the participant to provide the feedback on general discomfort level and body part discomfort while seating. Meanwhile, objective assessment used pressure map by Tactilus with 32 x 32 sensor matrix. All participants were required to sit on the car seat for five minutes. Findings showed that the driver’s discomfort and pressure pattern increased with time. In addition, the peak pressure distribution was found at the right buttock of the participant. Driving posture also influence the pattern of pressure distribution. This study provides a guideline for the automotive manufacturer to provide the optimal design of the car seat by maximizing the seat materials in term of quantity and quality with the highest pressure distribution levels. This adjustment can help to minimize the load concentration by providing a good pressure distribution.