An Anthropometrically Adjustable Seat for Low Seam Mining Applications

Abstract

Low seam underground coal mines require use of heavy machinery having interior cab heights that may be lower than 33 inches. Current mining machines typically provide operators with non-adjustable seats consisting of heavy metal slabs or, in many cases, provide no seat at all. However, the limited workspace height forces the operator to control his machine from a reclined or supine position that requires special support. The problem may be exacerbated by the presence of a canopy that may further reduce the workspace height by several inches or more. While some Air Force research has examined low-profile seating anthropometry, the special ruggedness and low-level technology of the mining environment imposes unique design requirements not addressed by the Air Force research. This paper describes the development of a special anthropometrically adjustable seat that can provide comfortable body and head support in mining machines having very low workspace heights. Anthropometric analyses using published data and 1/4 inch scale drawing board manikins were used to establish design parameters for a medium fidelity adjustable seat mockup. Formal evaluation of the mockup confirmed, and in some cases altered, seat design parameters. The final seat design integrates refinements from the evaluation results and solutions to the adjustment problems.