Citation

Acar BS, Weekes A, Lopik DV. Int. J. Veh. Des. 2009; 51(3/4): 374-385.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Inderscience Publishers)

DOI

10.1504/IJVD.2009.027963

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study reports the research for a design tool related to pregnant women's safety during car travel. Anthropometric measurements are taken to generate an occupant model incorporating pregnancy related changes. These anthropometric changes mean that a pregnant occupant may be excluded by the designs, based upon non-pregnant female anthropometry. The paper explains the generation of a comprehensive parametric computer aided model of a pregnant occupant, 'Expecting'. The model can represent different size pregnant occupants as well as the size differences occurring in standing and seated postures. This model can be used as a design tool for automotive designers to help ensure that vehicle designs can accommodate the anthropometric needs of pregnant occupants.