Human Factors Engineering Inspired Chair Design

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The majority of North Americans work in occupations that require them to remain in a seated static position forprolonged periods of time. Prolonged sitting due to inactivity leads to high mortality rates, low back painproblems, weight gain and various other physiological and physical problems. Sitting discomfort can lead to areduction in concentration and work productivity. Lifeform Funriture Manufacturing Inc, a well-respectedCanadian seat manufacturing company that has acquired a new innovative piece of technology. This new'Core-Flex' technology could help address concerns associated with prolonged sitting. The Core-flextechnology allows for movement for the seated worker by engaging the legs and abdominals while remainingproductive at the workplace. The Core-Flex technology consists of a split seat pan that promotes back, pelvicand hip motion by alternating active ankle and hip motion similar to a walking action. To date, this "activesitting" approach has not has no empirical evidence to support its incussion in office seat design. The goal ofthis project is to assess and help better understand the human-factor outcomes of using an active office chair.The project will determine whether the Core-Flex technology: 1 promotes sitting pressure on the ischialtuberosities; 2 demonstrates an increased blood flow in the legs during prolonged sitting; and 3 promotesneutral postures and reduce sitting discomfort. Findings from this research will inform Core-Flex's developingprototype before it becomes available to market. The concerns related to sedentary behaviour, such as sitting atwork, requires a practical solution, which may be provided by active seat technology. This would translate intoreduced sitting discomfort, increased concentration during prolonged sitting and increased productivity.