Vehicle Ergonomics and the Winter Environment

The design of a vehicle for operation in a severe winter environment necessitates different ergonomic considerations than would be required for operation solely in a more moderate climate. The ergonomic requirements for such operation are neither well recognized nor well understood throughout the automotive industry.

This paper outlines the factors contributing to specific ergonomic needs for winter operation of vehicles, discusses the parameters which must be considered in defining those needs, and by example illustrates design criteria for satisfying them.

Typical examples of ‘desirable’ and ‘undesirable’ designs for various automotive systems and controls with respect to ergonomic needs for winter operation, are illustrated.