Using the systems approach, the human factors engineer stands ready to assist the design engineer in providing the vehicle driver with an optimum workplace.
A human factors checklist has been devised for the design engineer to alert him to the major areas where troubles for the human operator generally develop. This preliminary checklist has been applied to the design of a pickup truck cab to illustrate its use.
The terms “average” and “percentile” are explained. Sources of human factors data are suggested where the design engineer may find specific information as to spatial requirements for U.S. adult men and women, automotive driver controls, driver seating, environmental considerations within the vehicle, including conditions of heat, cold, and high humidity, ventilation, noise, vibration, and vision capability. When a particular component or control is the subject of a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard, the pertinent standard is identified by number and title. Maintenance and maintainability considerations are emphasized, since all products must be repaired eventually.
The combination of good human factors engineering and vehicles that are easy to repair can greatly improve public acceptance of the automotive design engineer's product.