Neck posture and muscle activity with and without head support in a reclined sitting posture when watching IFE

M. Smulders, Alessandro Naddeo, N. Cappetti, Elmer van Grondelle, U. Schultheis, Peter Vink

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedings/Edited volumeConference contributionScientific

Abstract

In designing a headrest it is important to define the ideal head position and neck angle. There is literature on the ideal head position, but not in the context of watching IFE in a business class aircraft seat. In this study (n=21) the neck muscle activity (EMG), expected long-term comfort and head/neck inclination were studied in a reclined position (as is possible in business class) when watching IFE in the condition of with and without head/neck support.
It appeared that there were no significant differences in EMG between both conditions. However, the posture was significantly different; without head support by a headrest the head was found to be more upright. Expected
long-term comfort was rated highest in the condition with a headrest.
The fact that no difference was found in EMG indicates that humans tend to look for a head position that is neutral, in the sense of minimal (muscle) effort. Head support in a reclined position may have a positive psychological
effect on the user.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of 1st International Comfort Congress
EditorsAlessandra Naddeo, Nicola Cappetti, Mariarosaria Vallone
Place of PublicationSalerno, Italy
Pages1-10
Number of pages10
Publication statusPublished - 2017
Event1st International Comfort Congress - Salerno, Italy
Duration: 7 Jun 20178 Jun 2017

Conference

Conference1st International Comfort Congress
Country/TerritoryItaly
CitySalerno
Period7/06/178/06/17

Keywords

  • EMG
  • posture
  • neck angle
  • aircraft seat
  • neutral head position
  • headrest

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