Improving the Design of Construction Equipment for Accessibility -Target User and Development Requirements-
摘要
This study addresses accessibility issues in the design of construction equipment, with the aim of improving its usability for people with physical disabilities. Although the construction industry places high priority on the usability of equipment, usability issues remain for certain groups. Preliminary research identified problems with getting on and off existing equipment, seat stability, and operation. The importance of experiential values and the possibility of enabling people with disabilities to participate in society through accessible construction equipment are also highlighted. This report presents an analysis based on target user characteristics, an online survey, and a field survey of construction equipment users. Persons with disabilities, such as those with type I spinal cord injuries (hemiplegia) and amputations, were identified as the main target users. In addition, the results of the online survey revealed the specific requirements of construction equipment for daily activities. The on-site user survey identified specific design requirements for this purpose, such as a low seat height for easy transfer, minimal external support, operation mechanisms for the upper limbs or fingers, and support features for physical stability. The target users and detailed design requirements for construction equipment that can be used by people with disabilities were clarified.