Ergonomics 1 - Introduction

11B1215

Bachelor

German

5.0

only summer term

1 semester

The aim of product creation through design is not only to achieve aesthetically high quality but also to develop products (work equipment) that are suitable for use. Ergonomics makes a decisive contribution to this.

The aim of ergonomics is to contribute to the development of products that are manageable and comfortable to use. Another goal is ergonomic work design (working environment), where the aim is to ensure that work is carried out efficiently and without errors, and to protect the user from damage to his or her health, even if the work is carried out over a long period of time. This refers not only to classical work, but also to activities in leisure time.

Ergonomics is always relevant where people come into contact with machines, tools or other objects of interaction as a result of their activities. Ergonomics is therefore directly related to industrial product design and engineering sciences.

1 Introduction to the subject of ergonomics, basic terms, specialist fields/demarcations

2. general guidelines, standards, legal regulations

3. special user groups: Age-appropriate design, applications for the disabled, child-friendly design, barrier-free products, gender & diversity

4. research methodologies, tools, applications

5. ergonomics and design - corrective and constructive influences in the creative environment

6. applicability of methodologies in practice

The total workload for the module is 150 hours (see also "ECTS credit points and grading").

• Written examination and Homework / Assignment

2-hour exam, 30–50-page term paper

Students who have successfully studied this module gain a basic competence in ergonomic reflection in product development, taking into account the competences and needs in the context of use.

Excursions to companies, museums or exhibitions are planned as part of the course and can be taken by the students on a voluntary basis.

• Hofmann, Thomas

• Hofmann, Thomas