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Biomechanical research into the physiological effects of reclinable seating with emphasis on lower back pain as part of the design process of a new recliner chair

Placement of sensors on the spine for posture analysis

Placement of motion tracking sensors on the spine

PhD research student: David Wickett
Supervisory team: Dr Rajshree Mootanah, Professor John Dowell, Mr Dan Gordon, Ms Beverley Wharton, Dr Howard Hillstrom, Dr Rob Walker
Funding bodies: The Department of Trade and Industry through the Knowledge Transfer Partnership - £101,000.
Industrial partner: Kirton Healthcare Group Ltd.

This research involves a series of investigations aimed at quantifying some of the effects of reclinable seating, with particular focus on lower back pain. A multi-adjustable test-rig was built for the investigations. The postures measured were a relaxed upright sitting posture, a standard recline posture, three different tilt-in-space postures and lying supine.
Interface pressure measurement of the seat and back rest

Collecting data of the interface pressures between the subject's body and the chair seat and back rest

This research uses a holistic approach by simultaneously embedding the following engineering principles into the design and development of a recliner chair, targeted to back-pain sufferers, for the retail market:
  • optimisation of pressure distribution for the back and seat interface for different postures, using an Xsensor pressure mapping system.
  • investigating posture of the spine in different seating postures, using the MotionStar magnetic tracking system;
  • investigation of pressure relief in spinal discs, through gain in height, following different seating postures, using a stadiometer;
  • investigating muscle activities for the different seating positions, using an electromyography (EMG) system.

Correlations between the collected data are investigated. The results are used to design and manufacture a scientifically proven back care chair for maximum comfort, good posture and disc pressure relief.
Beverley Wharton
Marketing Director at Kirton Healthcare Group Ltd

"Working closely with the University has given us access to knowledge and understanding of areas unfamiliar to the company... The integration of the new Back Care Chair's 'knowledge' into existing and future healthcare products will enhance the company's competitiveness and unique selling features within the existing market."

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