Ergonomic design of refrigerated display units

This paper presents a methodological approach to evaluate ergonomic issues of refrigerated display units. It is based on the use and integration of virtual human models with virtual prototyping techniques in order to support and optimize the product development process. The methodology has been investigated simulating the behaviour of two users' categories (customers and operators), which have different roles, needs, and ways of interaction with the machinery. Regarding customers, aspects related to reach capability and visibility were analyzed and quantified. For the operators, two typical tasks were analyzed (loading a unit and serving a customer), evaluating postures and movements respect to requirements established by international standards to reduce health risks. Ergonomic simulations were carried out varying unit type and configuration (number and types of shelves, etc.), manikin size and packed food (sizes and weight). © 2010 Taylor & Francis.