Neck posture and muscle activity with and without head support in a reclined sitting posture when watching IFE
M. Smulders (TU Delft - Mechatronic Design, ZODIAC Seats US Division)
A. Naddeo (University of Salerno)
N. Cappetti (University of Salerno)
ED Van Grondelle (TU Delft - Form and Experience)
U. Schultheis (ZODIAC Seats US Division)
P. Vink (TU Delft - Emerging Materials)
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Abstract
In designing a headrest it is important to define the ideal head position and neck angle. There is literature on the ideal head position, but not in the context of watching IFE in a business class aircraft seat. In this study (n=21) the neck muscle activity (EMG), expected long-term comfort and head/neck inclination were studied in a reclined position (as is possible in business class) when watching IFE in the condition of with and without head/neck support.
It appeared that there were no significant differences in EMG between both conditions. However, the posture was significantly different; without head support by a headrest the head was found to be more upright. Expected long-term comfort was rated highest in the condition with a headrest.
The fact that no difference was found in EMG indicates that humans tend to look for a head position that is neutral, in the sense of minimal (muscle) effort. Head support in a reclined position may have a positive psychological effect on the user.