Accommodation models for truck driver knee clearance, abdomen clearance, and shifter location

Abstract

New interior design models for trucks are presented. The models are based on statistical analysis of driver posture and body contour using data from a laboratory study of truck and bus driver posture. The knee clearance model represents the distribution of drivers’ knees for normal rest positions and during clutch operation. The abdomen profile model is intended for assessment of steering wheel interference. Two three-dimensional volumes developed from the data provide design guidance for shift pattern size and location. All of the models can be adjusted to account for population anthropometric distributions and gender mix. The placement of the models within the vehicle package is accomplished using a previously developed seating accommodation model that takes into account the effects of vehicle interior geometry and adjustment ranges on the distributions of driver-selected seat positions.