RESEARCH
Design for Human Modeling
Modeling and simulating humans, with their complex physiological and cognitive attributes, presents one of the most challenging tasks compared to many mechanistic computational design approaches.
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With the rapid advancement of computer, sensor, and visualization technologies, Digital Human Modeling (DHM) has emerged as a computerized design support methodology. DHM enables the modeling and simulation of humans within computer-aided design (CAD) or virtual environments (VE).
DHM manikin represents a realistic musculoskeletal human model.
Representing Humans Computationally
Proactive Human Factors
Digital Human Modeling (DHM) introduces advanced visualization, simulation, and analysis techniques, integrating technology through manikins to embed human factors throughout the design process. Implementing DHM with physical or digital mockups allows for the early exploration of various "what-if" design scenarios, enhancing concept generation by filtering out infeasible ideas and identifying better alternatives. This approach can also help reduce overall costs and time in the long run, making it a valuable component of modern product development.
Designing with DHM establishes a proactive human factors design approach by offering:
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3D human models to represent physical attributes with varying anthropometry
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Vision analysis tools for identifying peripheral, coverage, and obscuration zones
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Predefined postures and posture prediction models to generate realistic postures
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Toolkits to assess comfort and risk of injury
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Performance measurement tools for calculating comfort, fatigue, energy expenditure, and strength
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Models to represent cognitive aspects of humans (with limitations).
DHM enables designers to inject human factors into early phase design and make transdiciplinary connections.
Effective Early-Stage Design
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Designing with DHM allows designers to proactively visualize, evaluate, and optimize designs within a computer or virtual environment.
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Incorporating human factors early in the design process through DHM reduces the need for later design changes and corrections, positively impacting overall development costs.
Potential cost savings associated with designing with DHM.
Making Transdiciplinary Connections
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​DHM, as a research domain, offers a comprehensive integration of domain expertise and technology, enabling a more systematic approach to human-centered design.
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Rooted in engineering design, systems engineering, and human factors engineering (HFE), DHM also incorporates theory, tools, principles, and best practices from non-engineering disciplines, including industrial design, medical sciences, and management.
DHM taxonomy based on the model development and applications.