Anatomical Geometry and Seating

Published and unpublished data on external body configuration and skeletal geometry, were interpreted with an understanding of functional anatomy to provide information on body positions for different size people in automotive seating. Body positions for erect, lumbar-supported postures are presented for small women, average men, and large men, and this posture is compared to the SAE seating design practice. Also, a reclined posture is described. This paper provides some information and insights which are of use in automotive seat design.