Abstract

This research aimed to enhance the comfort and safety of tricycle riders by optimizing the ergonomic design of their seats. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, incorporating anthropometric measurements, questionnaire surveys, and seat pressure mapping for a comprehensive evaluation. Anthropometric measurements, including seated height, elbow to fingertip, buttock to knee length, hand dimensions, and others, were gathered to understand the diverse body sizes among riders. The collected data underwent analysis using SPSS software, revealing a mean sitting height of 81.53 cm, knee height of 50.24 cm, and hand length of 19.33 cm. Results indicated that 43.3% of riders found the seats convenient, while 56.7% considered them inconvenient. Similarly, 56.7% perceived the tricycle steering as too rigid, contrasting with 43.3% finding it flexible. Notably, all riders were comfortable with the side mirror positions. However, 53.3% found the distance between the knee and the tricycle body frame inconvenient. Regarding tyre replacement, 76.7% replaced tricycle tyres annually, while 23.3% did so every six months. The study identified a prevalent issue of inadequate lumbar support and cushioning in current seats, leading to reported discomfort and fatigue during prolonged rides. Insights from this research contributed to the development of tricycle seats prioritizing rider comfort, aiming for safer and more enjoyable tricycle experiences.