A detailed account is given of the use of models, both anthropomorphic and computer-based, to determine the 'occupant envelope' or space inside a vehicle. A distinction is made between conventional static anthropometric measurements and functional task oriented measurements and sources of data are discussed. A comparison is made between task oriented percentile models and manikin oriented models. The use of Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) functional task oriented accommodation design tools in conjunction with human body landmarks to design packages that can accommodate up to 99% of the population is outlined and the development of a seating package described. Future trends in research and packaging tools are considered. SAE occupant packaging practices are described in an Appendix. The relevant anthropometric measurements are given in some detail.
Abstract