The golden section as a harmonizing feature of human dimensions and workplace design

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to present a philosophical aspect of the ecology of human-machine systems by exploring the potential application of the basic pattern referred to as the golden section to workplace design and human body dimensions. Studies of stairway and industrial knife designs confirm that subjects prefer workplace and tool dimensions that are related to their human body segment lengths. In this paper, it is suggested that for each task or equipment there are different body segments which should be considered as a transitional element harmonizing a human body with its workplace. Hence, for a knife design - grip size circumference and blade length, for stairway design - length of foot and height of a riser. The psychophysical assessments affirm an existence of the golden section in workplace/tool design as a preferred design harmonizing an individual's body dimensions with work demands.