To supplement subjective appraisal to determine the degree of comfort provided by an automobile seat, there was an increasing need for an instrument capable of quantitatively measuring pressures between the occupant and the seat. The method used to determine, initially, the optimum pressure distribution by subjective road tests on a specially constructed seat is described. The S.A.E. manikin, being adjustable and possessing its own measuring devices in addition to simulating the human being for size, weight, and proportions, was the obvious choice for use as a basis for the new tool. Mechanical load cells fitted with strain gauges were used successfully for measuring pressures between the occupant and the seat and, therefore, proved acceptable for attachment to the relevant area of the manikin. The display of the results was initially achieved by the construction of isograms, but although visually effective it was too time-consuming. By using results obtained in this manner from nearly thirty complete seat tests, it was possible to compile a computer programme, the output sheets of which conveyed to the seating engineer full information which enabled him to decide whether a seat was acceptable or not and, if not, in which particular areas to consider modifications.
Car Seat Comfort by Measuring Interface Pressure and Using Subjective Evaluation System in Road Trials / Yol Denemelerinde Arayüz Basınç Ölçümü ve Öznel Değerlendirme Sistemi Kullanarak Oto Koltuğu Konforu