An analysis of biomechanical and anthropometric parameters on classroom furniture design

In this study, the necessary anthropometric measurements of classroom furniture used in Turkish higher education were carried out. The static anthropometric measurements of 13 dimensions from 1049 students were obtained while they are standing and sitting. The data obtained was analyzed to determine the limit values to be used in classroom and laboratory design. The dimensions of school desks and chairs were compared with the student’s anthropometric measurements. For male students, the average weight was found as 69.50 kg, stature as 1749 mm, and popliteal height as 433 mm. For female students, the average weight was found as 56.02 kg, stature as 1618 mm, and popliteal height as 421 mm values. According to these anthropometric measurements, it was observed that there was a mismatch between popliteal height and seat height, knee height and desk clearance, buttock to popliteal length and seat depth. The percentile values concerning the ergonomic design of school desks and chairs in our classrooms were presented. The results show that there are significant differences between the anthropometric measures of Turkish students and other nations compared.

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