Designing micro-movement into automotive seating

A good driving experience depends on driver comfort and automotive seating is an important facilitator of this. In this context, the aim of this research is to develop a seat design concept using micro-movement while driving to promote driver comfort and wellbeing. Ultimately, the seat concept has a broader impact: in any environment in which static sitting is found, micro-movements can promote healthier sitting and lifestyle: both small and large posture changes can bring benefits to the sitting experience. The experimental work involved the development of two movement protocols: fore–aft movement (increments of 7 mm) and cushion backrest tilt movement (increments of 0.3° and 1° respectively). A series of small studies evidenced that the protocols worked well and that the user experience varied. [Continues.]