Seat pressure maps are often used to evaluate comfort of the users. In this study, we explored the relationships between pressure maps and comfort/discomfort of users in aircraft seats with a focus on a new 6-division method on the pressure maps collected at the bottom of the cushions. An experiment was designed where three cushions with identical shapes but different stiffnesses were prepared. 33 subjects joined the experiment and after sitting on each cushion in 4 postures, they completed comfort questionnaires. Pressure maps on the top as well as the bottom of cushions were collected and analysed. Results indicated that measures on the proposed 6 divisions, especially on the distal posterior thigh regions and regions close to ischial tuberosity of the bottom pressure maps, had larger correlation values to comfort scores compared to other division methods. Practitioner summary: The relations between comfort/discomfort and seat pressure maps collected from the top/bottom of three cushions were studied with 33 subjects in four postures. The distal posterior thigh and ischial tuberosity regions in the proposed 6-division of the bottom pressure maps had larger correlation values to comfort/discomfort compared to other methods.@en

In order to investigate differences in comfort and discomfort experiences amongst different regions of the world (America, Asia and Europe), a cross cultural study was performed. A questionnaire was sent to participants out in nine countries (Brazil, Canada, the USA, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands). In total 795 participants completed the questionnaires. All countries score the comfort of a luxurious bed higher than a simple bed, first-class seats higher than economy class and all countries rate the comfort lower when the duration of sitting increases. The study suggests that in the USA and Canada softer beds, hammocks, more luxurious seats and softer pillows are scored as more comfortable compared with the other countries. There are indications that China and Germany prefer a harder mattress than in the other countries. For pillows, the differences between countries are large, which might show that much is influenced by habitude or hesitation to use something new. The Asian countries score the comfort of a brace neck pillow higher, which might be because these participants better realise the benefits better or feel less concerned to wear something that might give the appearance of an orthotic device. Further studies are needed to confirm these suggestions. The study shows that obvious differences are seen in all countries, which makes the construct of comfort internationally comparable. Practitioner summary: In designing and manufacturing globally, it is important to know how different parts of the world experience (dis)comfort. This study did not show large cultural differences amongst nine countries. Some differences emerge regarding pillows, perhaps as differences in sleeping habits play a role. Abbreviations: MANOVA: multivariate analysis of variance; VDA: Vargha and Delaney’s A statistic; USA: United States of America.@en

BACKGROUND: The number of smartphone users is immense. People can do ever more with a smartphone. Smartphones are used everywhere, including in bed and on the sofa. The awkward postures taken in these situations affect comfort and discomfort. In designing a bed, it might be useful to know which position is comfortable for smartphone use on a bed. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to define the most comfortable trunk angle for smartphone use on a bed. METHODS: To study comfort and discomfort, 52 participants were asked to use the smartphone on a bed. The trunk angle of this bed was adjusted to 6 positions from flat to upright and for each angle the comfort and discomfort was recorded. RESULTS: The results showed that the participants prefer a trunk angle range around 120 and 142 degrees. At the best trunk angle 29% of the participants felt comfort in the legs, 25% in the upper back and 16% in the shoulders. However, in this position 36% also mentioned discomfort in the lower back and 24 % in the neck. CONCLUSIONS: For smartphone use a bed is preferable which enables a trunk angle of around 120-140 degrees. For the legs this is comfortable. However, for the neck and upper back the problem of discomfort still needs attention.@en

This study investigates the impact of smartphone use on passengers' comfort during travel, focusing on train trips. The literature review reveals that smartphones have become the primary activity for train passengers, leading to discomfort and potential musculoskeletal issues, particularly in the neck, shoulders, arms, and back. The study aims to enhance the vehicle seat environment to alleviate these issues. A questionnaire was administered to passengers, revealing that the main smartphone activities include listening to music, watching videos, reading, and texting. Most passengers prefer using smartphones with arm support, although a high discomfort score related to armrest use was noted. The study suggests exploring smartphone holders for watching videos and improving armrests for texting. Passenger needs for the seating environment were collected through context mapping and co-creation techniques. Different age groups showed varied preferences in smartphone activities, with younger passengers and employees primarily using smartphones for entertainment, while older individuals engaged in diverse activities. The study emphasizes the importance of arm support, charging facilities, Wi-Fi, and considerations for special passenger groups like the disabled in future interior designs. Chapters 5, 6, and 7 discuss design aspects to enhance smartphone comfort. An adjustable armrest is recommended, and experiments suggest an optimal trunk angle for smartphone use. A specially designed armrest reduced neck discomfort but increased discomfort in the upper arms, emphasizing the need for adjustable height. Chapter 8 provides specific recommendations for armrest height levels during various smartphone activities and proposes the use of smartphone holders. In conclusion, the study suggests implementing adjustable armrests, smartphone holders, and considering the duration of smartphone use in future vehicle interior designs. These improvements aim to enhance body posture and reduce discomfort for passengers during smartphone usage. Further testing with end-users is recommended to validate these proposed solutions.@en

This study aims to collect data on the activities, postures, dis(comfort), and needs of train passengers. Observations in the trains and questionnaires completed by train passengers were used. The online questionnaire was completed using the smartphone of the passengers during the train trip. The most often observed activity of the passengers was using a smartphone while travelling. They used a smartphone to listen to music, chat or type, look at a video or picture, and to read. Most passengers reported that they hold a smartphone with both hands and used a smartphone with the right hand also. The thigh support and the armrests of the seat showed the lowest comfort and certainly have room for improvement. Future research could be considered to design the seat to increase passenger comfort while using a smartphone.@en