Seat, Clutch Lever & Ergonomic Assessment Designs
In August of 2016, I was selected by Cornell Racing to design and manufacture the clutch lever system for ARG17 race car - formula 3 style model.
In February of 2017, I found an opportunity to conduct ergonomic assessments and heuristics to improve the ergonomic system for competition in May.
My team placed 8th overall (1st place in ergonomics) at Michigan International Speedway in 2017.
For ARG18 (2018 car) I'm redesigning the seat, firewall, and driver placement. My goal for this year is to have optimal evidence-based design which will be measured by driver performance and comfort.
1. Clutch Lever Sketch
2. Clutch Lever CAD model
3. Usability Test via GoPro (w/o angled handle)
4. Manufacturing
Can angling the clutch lever handle to where it is aligned with the steering wheel improve comfort and productivity of the driver?
I used Autodesk Inventor Professional to sketch and CAD model the Clutch Lever system
I conducted a usability test that coded duration of operating the steering wheel, multiple levers and buttons.
After several Discomfort Questionnaires were conducted, the angle of the handle reduced discomfort in fingers and wrists.
(see below)
Ergonomic Assessments
I adapted Cornell's Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire to cater to our driver's biomechanics and anatomy when driving. The below image displays the level of discomfort reported in 4 driver's before and after iterations had been conducted within the ergonomic system of the car (formative testing was used to cater toward personal drivers).
Discomfort Survey before and after comfort iterations
Ergonomic Mockup
Defines driver dimensions and driving preference by using flexible components: steering, seat, and pedals. Holding the back, dash, and floor constant.