Article,
A prototype of an adjustable table and an adjustable chair for schools
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 35 (10): 955-969 (October 2005)
Abstract
This study was conducted to develop a previous
termprototypenext term of an adjustable table and an
adjustable previous termchairnext term for educational
institutions, to evaluate its adoptability in
accordance with international standards, and to
validate the previous termprototype chairnext term by
conducting subjective trials. The development process
began with identifying the problems of existing
adjustable tables and previous termchairsnext term
currently available on the market. Minimizing the
production cost to lower the market retail price;
designing a stable and solid structure with minimum
adjustment controls for easy adjustability; providing a
flexible adjustment interval, adequate space for feet
and knees; and reducing weight for easier mobility were
the criteria for developing the previous termprototype.
The prototype'snext term fundamental height adjusting
mechanism, found on each leg, consists of a bar that
rotates up and down through a cylinder. There are
measurements on the bars so the height of all four legs
can be evenly or independently adjusted forward or
backward. In addition, the height of the backrest and
the depth of the seat can be adjusted at the same time
since the entire backrest can be moved forward or
backward, upward or downward. The previous
termprototype chairnext term was evaluated by comparing
it with dimensions suggested by the ISO 5970 (Standards
for tables and previous termchairsnext term for
educational institutions) in terms of flexible range
accommodations. Results of the comparison showed that
the previous termprototypenext term developed in this
study could be applied to these dimensions. Fitting
trials were also done to test the user's first
interaction with the previous termchair.next term
Results of these trials showed that the previous
termprototypenext term came within range of subjective
comfortable fitting dimensions. Relevance to industry
The average physical dimensions of students have
increased due to changes in living standards and
dietary habits. Moreover, students� anthropometric
measurements also vary widely across different age
groups, within the same age groups, and between genders
and different cultures. Thus, it is unlikely that
current previous termschoolnext term furniture with
fixed dimensions would be compatible with the majority
of students. In order to ensure proper posture and
comfortableness while students are learning, the
development and distribution of adjustable tables and
previous termchairsnext term are essential. The market
demand for such adjustable furniture is expected to
grow rapidly.
