Lumbar support for drivers

Prolonged driving is one of the main causes for lower back pain in men, this is due to improper posture and poorly designed seats.

Introduction

Many of the conventional lumbar support systems for car seats available are either very rudimentary or are electronically and pneumatically adjustable, complex systems. We aim to solve the problem of providing adequate lumbar support by designing a cheap and effective retrofittable lumbar support mechanism that caters to the need of a wide range of people. While making it simple to use and manufacture, we also want to meticulously design it to accommodate all the vital bio-mechanical factors into consideration.

This project was undertaken as part of a course, Human Factors in Design. I worked in a team with Guru Koushik .

My Contribution

In the initial phase of the project, I was responsible for the research that went into finding the optimal spinal curvature in normal and driving conditions. I was also responsible for gauging the current state of the art and conducting a market analysis to explore the various similar products in the market.

In the second phase of the project, I contributed in the design of the CAD model which was to act as the proof of concept for the proposition.

In the final phase of the project, I was responsible for making the product renders and the slides of the presentation that we put up for the entire department at the end of the course.

Outcome

The project resulted in my gaining a deep understanding of the ergonomics of driving and the impact that the posture has on the body in the short and long term. Using this knowledge, my partner and I were able to design a cushion that would be able to attach onto most car seats using straps and which would improve the driver’s posture and provide comfort during long rides. However, we were unable to fabricate this model, due to the time-constraints involved.

Extras

• The Complete Project Report