One of the most important focuses in ergonomics for the team this year is the rider position. This pertains to the angle between the rider’s back and center tubing of the frame, the rider’s chest and center of the cranks, and the center of the cranks and center tubing of the frame. The maximum power output from the operator depends on these angles because different muscles are used at different angles. The angle between the rider’s back and center tubing of the frame will be determined first because it relates to the rider’s visibility. Eye level needs to be slightly higher than the top of the rider’s foot on the pedals. Currently the team is conducting a test using a trainer bike in the recumbent position that can be adjusted in multiple ways to determine what position allows for maximum power output.

Ergonomics for the human powered vehicle focuses on the type of seat, rider position, and seat adjustability. These design aspects are important because they allow the rider to get maximum efficiency with the vehicle. The design process is currently in the middle stages and certain tests will be done to determine the best design that presents strength, safety, and efficiency.

The seat will be a Kevlar reinforced carbon hard-shell recumbent style bicycle seat. This type of seat was chosen over a mesh seat because the carbon hard-shell stiffness will not absorb any of the driver’s power while cycling, like the mesh seat would. The seat will, however, have some form of cushion for comfort and possibly a headrest.

The senior design team varies in height from 5’4” to 6”4 and it is important that every member is able to operate the vehicle in comfort and for maximum efficiency. With this in mind, the seat design has to include an easy way to adjust the seat to fit the appropriate driver. The current design includes a pin and hole system similar to last year’s bike, The Axe, but with a pin lever connected to the bottom bracket. This lever will be easily accessible for the driver to allow the driver to adjust his/her position quickly while seated. The bottom bracket will be rectangular to fit the center of the frame. This also means that fewer supports are needed to minimize the seat from twisting. Within this bracket will be several cylindrical roller bearings to allow the seat to roll easily along the frame. The design to support the back of the seat is currently in the brainstorming stage and will be determined soon.