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Recently, we proposed a unified data based approach which aimed at predicting both reach envelopes and reach discomfort for a digital human model [1]. In this approach, four reach surfaces, from half-flexed arm distance to maximum reach with torso participation, need to be defined. The discomfort associated with a point on each surface is defined at first. Then, the discomfort of an intermediate distance between two reach distances is interpolated. The proposed approach was demonstrated on a reaching task corresponding to push a toggle switch from a seated posture without seat back. As data were collected in an environment which is different from the driving situation, these data can not be directly applied to driver's reach capacity and discomfort. In this study, we will apply this approach for in-car driver's reach for predicting different reach envelopes and discomfort.

Realistic simulation of human posture and movement is one of key requirements for digital human models for workplace design. In a recent European research project REAL MAN (IST 2000-29357), we have suggested a data-based motion simulation approach, which includes motion capture, model-based motion reconstruction, motion analysis and data structuration, motion simulation and discomfort estimation. After the REAL MAN project, we have decided to apply this approach and to create a complete in-vehicle reach motion database for car interior design. The objective of this paper is to show our in-vehicle reach motion database. Two female and four male subjects participated in motion data collection. Each subject carried out 64 reach movements which covered 17 common driver’s control command reaches. Motion data were analyzed in order to identify key kinematic characteristics of each motion and then structured according to subject’s anthropometric information; task and command location.

The constraints applied to the design of cars and of other transportation systems imply space-restricted environments for their customers and/or manufacturing or maintenance workers. Consequently, some actions such as getting in and out of a car, or reaching the safety-belt, or loading/unloading the luggage compartment, can be difficult for some customers. For that reason, the designers need CAD-tools to be able to simulate not only the probable postures but the behaviour and movements of these persons, and to assess their discomfort in these situations, taking into account the suppleness- and force-capabilities of the real people, including senior citizens. Considering these needs, and not satisfied by the existing software and available databases, Renault built a proposal for a European Project called REAL MAN. This project started in the last quarter of 2001 and ended by mid-2004.