1Kelappaji College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Kerala Agriculture Unicersity, Tavanur-679 573, Kerala, India.
2Farming Systems Research Station, Kerala Agriculture Unicersity, Sadanandapuram, Kottarakkara-691 506, Kerala, India.
3School of Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, Mohan Babu University, Tirupati-517 102, Andhra Pradesh, India.
4Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, College of Technology, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantangar-263 145, Uttarakhand, India.
Corresponding Author: G. Gayathri, Kelappaji College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Kerala Agriculture Unicersity, Tavanur-679 573, Kerala, India. Email: gorlagayathri004@gmail.com
Modern self-propelled devices consider human factors such as space constraints, control placement, line of sight, comfort and ease of operation. These factors are linked to the operator’s anthropometric and biomechanical parameters. Effective human-machine interface design can enhance productivity, comfort and safety.
An anthropometric survey was conducted among 450 female agricultural workers across three zones of Kerala. The dimensions and clearances of the operator workplace for a selected transplanter were measured based on the seat index and reference points. The data were compared with the anthropometric dimensions to assess the suitability of the transplanters for women operators.
Based on the anthropometric data and spatial requirements, seat designs were proposed for Yanji and Redlands transplanters. Recommendations for the operator’s seat include a 39 cm backrest height, 38 cm bottom width, 18 cm open area, 40±3.4 cm length, 43 cm top width, 10 cm seat cushion height and 8 cm backrest cushion height. A 35 cm diameter circular seat is recommended for the helper.
Anthropometry, Empowerment, Human factors, Rice-transplanters, Seat-design
