The objective of this study is to investigate affective preference of the automotive tactile switch which influences package controllability and user satisfaction. In order to accomplish this objective, the independent variables for this experiment were package location (door trim, crash pad, steering wheel (L), steering wheel (R), center fascia, center console and overhead console) and operating force (1.5N, 2.0N, 2.5N, 3.0N and 5.0N). Furthermore, we constructed an automotive seating buck based on actual location data for switch assemblies that consisted of similar tactile switches. Then we measured affective preference on the operating force for each switch in each package location on a 7 point Likert scale. The ANOVA results for affective preference on the whole package location categorized the package locations into three groups for driver behavior: tapping zone, reaching zone and grasping zone. SNK posthoc-analysis revealed that the tapping zone showed that the operating force preferred by the users was 2.0N and 2.5N. The results for the reaching zone showed that users preferred the 3.0N operating force while the results for the grasping zone showed preference for the 3.0N and 5.0N operating forces. We expect the results of this study to be utilized to improve the affective quality of the automotive tactile switch.

This study aims to systematically develop a usability evaluation model using the Structural Equation Model (SEM) from experiment of usability on using vehicle. Vehicle developers have been adding many functions for enhance the user satisfaction. But it will be made the trade-off problem of usability and design elements of vehicle interior from attempt to make best usability satisfaction in a restricted space. To solve the trade-off problem, we set a new solution criterion from usability evaluation model. The usability experiment is based on major activity pool from derived user's acts pattern in vehicle for make more accurate usability evaluation model. And this model was built with twenty-nine measurement variables for the evaluation of usability of vehicle user. As a result, the proposed SEM model showed statistical significance as well as a high level of R Square (0.7144). This model shows the relationships of detailed usability and design elements. According to the result, this study introduces the criterion to secure the best satisfaction of usability and design elements.

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Objective: The purpose of this study was to suggest appropriate human model for ergonomic evaluation considering working postures on 3D space. Background: Traditionally extreme design rules have been widely utilized at the stage of designing products. Body size of 5th percentile and 95th percentile in stature has been generally selected for controllability and clearance evaluation, respectively. However, these rules had limitations in reflecting working posture in ergonomic evaluation. Method: In order to define working posture on 3D space, not only sagittal plane but also lateral plane was considered. Kinematic linkage body model was utilized for representation of working posture. By utilizing the anthropometric data of 2,836 South Korean male populations, the point cloud for end points of linkage models was derived. The individuals who were lacking in certain controllability were selected as human models for the evaluation. Result: In case of standing posture it was found that conventional approach is proper for all controllability evaluations. Contrary to standing posture, tall people had less controllability on control location below shoulder point in sitting posture. Conclusion: From the derived proper range on controllability, ergonomic evaluation rule was suggested according to working posture especially in standing and sitting. Application: The results of the study are expected to aid in selection of appropriate human model for ergonomic evaluation and to improve the usability of products and work space.