The Human Buttocks in Sitting: Pressures, Patterns, and Palliatives

After a brief description of relevant buttock structure, the author presents summary data on buttock size, tuberosity locations, and other dimensions needed for improved seat design, as measured from a sample of 35 young males chosen to approximate the range of USAF flying personnel. Summary load patterns for two angles of seat back (pelvic inclination) are shown, and suggestions to reduce the discomfort of long-continued sitting are made. Curves and data for successful USAF seat surfaces are presented. Citing recent increases in American body size, the author calls for an anthropometric survey on a national sample in which numerous data needed for automotive and other industrial design would be acquired.