VISVESVARAYA TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY

Jnana Sangama, Belagavi - 590018

A project report on
“Ergonomic Smart Chair”
Carried out by
Anandu K Sanil 1KS17ME007
Mohsin Shaikh 1KS17ME042
Arjun M Sindhya 1KS15ME011
Kiran Nagesh 1KS15ME034

Submitted in partial fulfilment for the award of

BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING
IN
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Under the Guidance Of

Dr. Umashankar M
Head Of Department
Department of Mechanical Engineering

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

K S INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Bengaluru - 560109
2020-2021
 K S INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Bengaluru - 560109
DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the project work entitled “Ergonomic Smart Chair” is a bonafide work
carried out by
Anandu K Sanil 1KS17ME007
Mohsin Shaikh 1KS17ME042
Arjun M Sindhya 1KS15ME011
Kiran Nagesh 1KS15ME034

In partial fulfillment for the award of Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

from Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi during the academic year 2020-
2021. It is certified that all the corrections/suggestions indicated for the internal assessment
have been incorporated in the report deposited in the department. The project has been ap-
proved as it satisfies the academic requirements.

Signature of guide Signature of HOD Signature of Principal

(Dr. Umashankar M) (Dr. Umashankar M) (Dr. Dilip Kumar. K)

EXTERNAL VIVA
Name of Examiners Signature with date
1.
2.

ii
 K S INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Bengaluru - 560109
DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

DECLARATION

We, Anandu K Sanil, Mohsin Shaikh, Arjun M Sindhya, and Kiran Nagesh, students of 8 th
semester B.E, Mechanical Engineering, K.S. Institute of Technology, Bengaluru hereby de-
clare that the project report entitled “Ergonomic Smart Chair” embodies the record of the
project work carried out by us, for the fulfillment of the course requirement for the award of
Degree in Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering, Visvesvaraya Technology
University, Belagavi during the academic year 2020-2021. Further, the matter embodied in
dissertation has not been submitted previously by anybody for the award of any Degree or
Diploma to any other University.

Signature of the candidates

1.

2.

3.

4.
Place: Bengaluru
Date: 27/07/2021

iii
 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The sense of completion and elation that accompanies the successful completion of
this work would be incomplete without mentioning the people who helped us in accomplish-
ment of this project to its culmination point, people whose constant guidance, support and
encouragement resulted in realization.

We take this opportunity to thank Dr. Dilip Kumar K, Principal / Director, K S Insti-
tute of Technology for providing the guidance and healthy environment in college which
helped in concentrating on the project

We sincerely thank with utmost gratitude to Dr. Umashankar M, HOD, Department

of Mechanical Engineering for providing us a handful of support, and also guiding us through
the entire course of the project.

Last but not the least, we would like to thank all the teaching and non-teaching staff of
K S Institute of Technology, Bangalore, our parents, friends and all those who stood by us
in the hour of greatest need in helping us directly or indirectly during the completion of the
project.

Thank You,
Anandu K Sanil
Mohsin Shaikh
Arjun M Sindhya
Kiran Nagesh

iv
 ABSTRACT

An office chair is the most common type of chair used by professionals who work on
computers, as well as other demographics such as clerks, cashiers, shop-keepers, etc. Office
chairs come in a variety of designs, but the fundamental structure has remained largely un-
changed - a swiveling and rolling base, a seat, a back-rest, and in some cases, arm-rests.

The Ergonomic Smart Chair is a special chair that aims to eliminate the shortcomings
of a standard office chair by providing the user with proper support and cushioning.
The Ergonomic Smart Chair automatically adjusts to the body type of the user, moving its
cushioning and support structures to encourage proper posture. It can also be manually ad-
justed to suit personal preferences.

This chair has been designed from the ground up to be an ergonomic device, which
means very few aspects get carried over from a traditional chair. Thus, it is not meant to be a
competitor for such an office chair, rather a completely separate, specialized piece of furniture
that improves quality of life for the end user.

v
 CONTENTS

Chapter Particulars Page no.

Certificate ii
Declaration iii
Acknowledgement iv
Abstract v
Chapter 1 Introduction 1
1.1 Traditional office chairs 2
1.2 Ergonomics 3
1.3 Ergonomics in chair design 4
Chapter 2 Literature Review 5
2.1 Literature Paper 1 6
2.2 Literature Paper 2 8
2.3 Literature Paper 3 9
2.4 Literature Paper 4 10
2.5 Literature Paper 5 11
2.6 Literature Paper 6 12
2.7 Literature Paper 7 13
2.8 Literature Paper 8 14
Chapter 3 Problem definition and Objectives 15
3.1 Problem definition 16
3.2 Need for ergonomics 17
3.3 Objectives 20
Chapter 4 Methodology 21
4.1 Elevating screw 23
4.2 Stepper motor 24
4.3 Memory foam 25
4.4 Arduino 26
Chapter 5 Modelling 27
5.1 Base 28
5.2 Heavy duty motor 30
5.3 Stepper motor 31
 5.4 Seat 32
5.5 Armrest 34
5.6 Backrest 36
5.7 Assembly 38
Chapter 6 Analysis 40
6.1 Procedure for analysis 41
6.2 Analysis of base 42
6.3 Analysis of armrest 43
6.4 Analysis of lever 44
6.5 Analysis of backrest 45
Chapter 7 Results and Conclusion 46
7.1 Results 47
7.2 Comparison with traditional chair 47
7.3 Conclusion 48
7.4 Future Scope 49
References 50
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Traditional chair 2

Figure 2: Chartered Institute of Ergonomics logo 3
Figure 3: Expensive ergonomic chair 4
Figure 4: Harmful effects of prolonged sitting 17
Figure 5: Problem areas during sitting 18
Figure 6: Flow of work done 22
Figure 7: Screw mechanism in glue stick 23
Figure 8: Stepper motor armature 24
Figure 9: Memory foam 25
Figure 10: Arduino module 26
Figure 11: Base model 28
Figure 12: Elevating motor model 30
Figure 13: Stepper motor model 31
Figure 14: Seat model underside 32
Figure 15: Seat model side view 33
Figure 16: Armrest model 34
Figure 17: Roller mechanism for armrest 35
Figure 18: Backrest model 36
Figure 19: Backrest rear view with motor visible 37
Figure 20: Assembled chair side view 38
Figure 21: Chair isometric view 39
Figure 22: Stress in base 42
Figure 23: Base deformation 42
Figure 24: Armrest deformation 43
Figure 25: Stress in armrest 43
Figure 26: Lever pivot deformation 44
Figure 27: Stress in lever 44
Figure 28: Backrest deformation 45
Figure 29: Stress in backrest 45
Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021

CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 1

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021

Chapter 1
Introduction

1.1 Traditional office chairs

Office chairs are usually a generic design, made to be efficient in manufacturing pro-
cesses and cheap to produce. Thus, they do not take into account ergonomics of the user in the
final product. The office chairs only have a seat, backrest, and armrests to keep the user in a
roughly upright posture, with no regard for support for muscle groups. The only ergonomic
feature of such a chair is a hydraulic height adjust mechanism. Thus, although it may fulfill
the objective of being a chair, it is harmful to the end user, in the long run.

There are many types of office chairs available, but most offices use the cheapest mod-
els for employees. There are multiple kinds of office chairs designed to suit different needs.
The most basic is the task chair, which typically does not offer lumbar support or a headrest.
These chairs generally cannot be sat in for more than a couple hours at a time without becom-
ing uncomfortable, though they often offer more free movement than higher-end chairs.

Figure 1: Traditional chair

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 2

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
1.2 Ergonomics

“Ergonomics is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of interac-

tions among humans and other elements of a system, and the profession that applies theory,
principles, data and methods to design in order to optimise human well-being and overall sys-
tem performance.” - International Ergonomics Association.

Ergonomics is defined as an applied science concerned with designing and arranging

things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely. In engi-
neering, it signifies the design characteristics of an object resulting especially from the appli-
cation of the science of ergonomics.

The Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors is a United Kingdom-based

professional society for ergonomists, human factors specialists, and those involved in user-
centered design. It is the premier society for study of ergonomics around the world.

Figure 2: Chartered Institute of Ergonomics logo

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 3

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
1.3 Ergonomics in chair design

In the 1970s, ergonomics became an important design consideration in chairs. Today,

office chairs often have adjustable seats, armrests, backs, back supports, and heights to prevent
repetitive stress injury and back pain associated with sitting for long periods. However, it often
takes a second preference to cost cutting and ease of manufacturing.

Mid-back chairs offer fuller back support, and with the right ergonomic design, can be
sat in for four hours at a time or longer. High-end chairs in this category, such as the Herman
Miller Aeron, are comfortable for long periods.

Executive or full-back chairs offer full back and head support. Many executive chairs
are designed to be sat in for eight or more hours at a time. These are typically the most expen-
sive office chairs.

Despite the prevalence of ergonomics in office chair design, the majority of office
workers do not have access to this expensive furniture. The Herman Miller Aeron for example,
costs around 1 lakh rupees in India.

Figure 3: Expensive ergonomic chair

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 4

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021

CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW

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Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021

Chapter 2
Literature review

2.1 Adverse Effects of Prolonged Sitting Behavior on the General Health of

Office Workers

Background:
Excessive sitting behavior is a risk factor for many adverse health outcomes. This study
aimed to survey the prevalence of sitting behavior and its adverse effects among Iranian office
workers.

Methods:
This cross-sectional study included 447 Iranian office workers. A two-part question-
naire was used as the data collection tool. The first part surveyed the demographic character-
istics and general health of the respondents, while the second part contained the Nordic Mus-
culoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) to assess symptoms. Statistical analyses were performed
using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software using Mann-Whitney U and Chi-
square tests and multiple logistic regression analysis.

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Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
Results:
The respondents spent an average of 6.29 hours of an 8-hour working shift in a sitting
position. The results showed that 48.8% of the participants did not feel comfortable with their
workstations and 73.6% felt exhausted during the workday. Additionally, 6.3% suffered from
hypertension, and 11.2% of them reported hyperlipidemia. The results of the NMQ showed
that neck (53.5%), lower back (53.2%) and shoulder (51.6%) symptoms were the most prev-
alent problem among office workers. Based upon a multiple logistic regression, only sex had
a significant association with prolonged sitting behavior (odds ratio = 3.084). Our results in-
dicated that long sitting times were associated with exhaustion during the working day, de-
creased job satisfaction, hypertension, and musculoskeletal disorder symptoms in the shoul-
ders, lower back, thighs, and knees of office workers.

Conclusion:
Sitting behavior had adverse effects on office workers. Active workstations are there-
fore recommended to improve working conditions.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 7

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
2.2 Occupational sitting behavior and its relationship with back pain: A pi-
lot study

Nowadays, working in an office environment is ubiquitous. At the same time, progres-

sively more people suffer from occupational musculoskeletal disorders. Therefore, the aim of
this pilot study was to analyse the influence of back pain on sitting behaviour in the office
environment. A textile pressure mat (64-sensor-matrix) placed on the seat pan was used to
identify the adopted sitting positions of 20 office workers by means of random forest classifi-
cation. Additionally, two standardized questionnaires (Korff, BPI) were used to assess short
and long-term back pain in order to divide the subjects into two groups (with and without back
pain). Independent t-test indicated that subjects who registered back pain within the last 24 h
showed a clear trend towards a more static sitting behaviour. Therefore, the developed sensor
system has successfully been introduced to characterise and compare sitting behaviour of sub-
jects with and without back pain.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 8

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
2.3 The Short Term Musculoskeletal and Cognitive Effects of Prolonged
Sitting During Office Computer Work.

Office workers are exposed to high levels of sedentary time. In addition to cardio-
vascular and metabolic health risks, this sedentary time may have musculoskeletal and/or cog-
nitive impacts on office workers. Participants (n = 20) undertook two hours of laboratory-
based sitting computer work to investigate changes in discomfort and cognitive function (sus-
tained attention and problem solving), along with muscle fatigue, movement and mental state.
Over time, discomfort increased in all body areas (total body IRR [95% confidence interval]:
1.43 [1.33⁻1.53]) reaching clinically meaningful levels in the low back and hip/thigh/buttock
areas. Creative problem solving errors increased (β = 0.25 [0.03⁻1.47]) while sustained atten-
tion did not change. There was no change in erector spinae, trapezius, rectus femoris, biceps
femoris and external oblique median frequency or amplitude; low back angle changed towards
less lordosis, pelvis movement increased, and mental state deteriorated. There were no sub-
stantial correlations between discomfort and cognitive function. The observed changes suggest
prolonged sitting may have consequences for musculoskeletal discomfort and cognitive func-
tion and breaks to interrupt prolonged sitting are recommended.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 9

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
2.4 Awareness of Sitting Posture in Patients Having Chronic Low Back
Pain

This cross-sectional survey was conducted to find out the level of awareness about
correct sitting posture & association between the poor posture and chronic low back pain. A
sample of 93 patients was taken from February 15, 2011 to April 30, 2011.The history of
posture during job & work was taken through a structured questionnaire. VAS (visual analog
scale) for pain intensity & pain duration were two dependent variables in study Out of 93
participants, 63% were males. Pain intensities were found associated with poor habit of sitting
during their job hours. 82% of participants were not involved in exercise habit. Only 23.7%
use Adjustable back support. High proportion of patients had poor knowledge of correct sitting
posture and used to adapt poor posture. They ignored their pain which lead to recurrent micro
trauma pain & disability. It is recommended that posture awareness program & workshop
should be conducted in community centers.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 10

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
2.5 Design of an ergonomic chair with headrest and armrest using anthro-
pometric data.

The application of anthropometry and ergonomics in chair design contributes in im-

proving human efficiency in performance, minimize hazards, lower back pain and musculo-
skeletal disorders. Improper use of anthropometric data application can result to chronic back
pain, injuries and illness due to occupational health related problems. This paper focused on
the design of chair, using anthropometric data of students taken in relax state of standing and
sitting posture. Data were collected from subsample of students in the University Putra Ma-
laysia. The body size of each student was assessed using standard anthropometric measure-
ment tools. All anthropometric measurement where done in a relaxed and erect posture and
without shoes, the dimensions were estimated. The anthropometric data was analyzed using
average, minimum, maximum, standard deviation, 5th percentile, 50th percentile and 95th
percentile. The seat height was 47.3cm, the 5th percentile of the buttock-popliteal and thus the
seat depth was 44.2cm. The 95th percentile of biacromial breadth of 37.7 cm was used with
an allowance of 15 percent of the value (5.65 cm) which translates to a seat width of 43.3 cm.
In the design of the armrest height the sitting elbow rest height was the deciding factor, which
was taken as 19.8cm. Shoulder Height dimension was averaged 42.3cm, the backrest width
was the 50th percentile of biacromial breadth with an average of 44.0 cm.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 11

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
2.6 The effect of sitting posture on the loads at cervico-thoracic and lum-
bosacral joints

Background:
The sitting in an awkward posture for a prolonged time may lead to spinal or muscu-
loskeletal disease. It is important to investigate the joint loads at spine while sitting.
Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the joint moment and antero-posterior
(AP) reaction force at cervico-thoracic and lumbosacral joint for various sitting postures.
Methods: Twenty healthy males participated in this study. Six sitting postures were defined
from three spinal curvatures (slump, flat, and lordosis) and two arm postures (arms-on-chest
and arms-forward). Kinematic and kinetic data were measured in six sitting postures from
which joint moment and AP reaction force were calculated by inverse dynamics.
Results: In the cervico-thoracic joint, joint moment and AP reaction force were greater in
slump than the flat and lordosis postures (p< 0.001) and also in arms-forward posture com-
pared to arms-on-chest posture. In the lumbosacral joint, joint moment and AP reaction force
were greater in slump than flat and lordotic posture (p< 0.001) but there was no difference
between different arm postures. The joint loads (moment and AP reaction force) at the cervico-
thoriacic joint were closely related to the head flexion angle (r> 0.86) while those at the lum-
bosacral joint were correlated to the trunk flexion angle (r> 0.77). In slump posture, the joint
moments were close to or over the extreme of the daily life such as sit-to-stand and walking.
Consequently, if the slump is continued for a long time, it may cause pain and diseases at the
cervico-thoracic and lumbosacral joints.

Conclusion:
The results of the study indicated that the lordosis or flat would be better spinal pos-
tures. Also, keeping arms close to body would be desirable to reduce joint loads.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 12

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
2.7 Analysis of body imbalance in various writing sitting postures using sit-
ting pressure measurement

Background:
This study set out to substantiate the importance of the right sitting posture by meas-
uring the sitting pressure. It also described the influence of an imbalanced sitting posture on
the body.
Subjects and Methods:
The subjects included 30 healthy adults. A pressure mapping system was used to meas-
ure the sitting pressure in the right, one side prone, chin propped, and slumped sitting posi-
tions.
Results:
The WDI showed a statistically significant difference between the 3 incorrect postures
(one side prone, chin propped, and slumped sitting) and the right sitting posture. With regard
to the WDI, there was a statistically significant difference between the right sitting posture
and the one side prone sitting posture only.

Conclusion:
One side prone sitting was found to affect the body balance most adversely. This im-
balanced posture may have an indirect effect on chronic diseases. The results prove that it is
important to assume a proper posture to maintain body balance.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 13

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
2.8 Smart chair for monitoring of sitting behavior

Sitting is a common behavior of human body in daily life. It is found that poor sitting
postures can link to pains and other complications for people in literature. In order to avoid
the adverse effects of poor sitting behavior, we have developed a highly practical design of
smart chair system in this paper, which is able to monitor the sitting behavior of human body
accurately and non-invasively. The pressure patterns of eight standardized sitting postures of
human subjects were acquired and transmitted to the computer for the automatic sitting posture
recognition with the application of artificial neural network classifier. The experimental re-
sults showed that it can recognize eight sitting postures of human subjects with high accuracy.
The sitting posture monitoring in the developed smart chair system can help or promote people
to achieve and maintain healthy sitting behavior, and prevent or reduce the chronic disease
caused by poor sitting behavior. These promising results suggested that the presented system
is feasible for sitting behavior monitoring, which can find applications in many areas including
healthcare services, human-computer interactions and intelligent environment.

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CHAPTER 3
PROBLEM DEFINITION AND
OBJECTIVES

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Chapter 3

Problem Definition and Objectives

3.1 Problem definition

Many people in Western industrial nations suffer from back pain, with a prevalence of
up to 90% within their lifetime. Chronic low back pain (LBP) has an international prevalence
of 23% and is thereby the most common form of chronic pain. Numerous psychosocial and
physical aspects may be responsible for its development, as well as its progression into a
chronic condition. However, literature clearly linking causation to any specific factor is lack-
ing. In combination with these aspects, static loading, physical and psychological stress, are
additional pressures present in the office environment. It therefore comes as no surprise that
prolonged static sitting is also thought to be associated with an increased risk of developing
musculoskeletal disorders in the back, neck, shoulders, arms and legs. Nowadays, working in
an office environment is ubiquitous. At the same time, progressively more people suffer from
occupational musculoskeletal disorders. Most of the offices are based on the concept of non-
territorial or free address offices in which a given desk, office or workstation is intended to be
used by different people at different times. Ergonomics in the office environment ranges from
business process analysis to workplace design including furniture, equipment, computer sys-
tems and environmental factors.

Therefore, “The aim of this project was to analyse the influence of back pain on
sitting behaviour in the office environment and design an appropriate ergonomic chair
based on the ergonomic parameters.”

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Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
3.2 Need for ergonomics

Ergonomics is the application of information about human abilities, limitations, and

behaviour toward creating jobs, tasks, tools, and machines that facilitate a comfortable, effec-
tive, safe, and productive work environment. In other words, ergonomics is the relationship
between the job or task and the worker. It includes studying aspects of the workplace, such as
work environment, physical environment, psychosocial environment, and technology.

Figure 4: Harmful effects of prolonged sitting

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Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
Staff across many industries and occupations are exposed to various health risk factors
in the workplace. These factors include issues such as:

 Prolonged sitting

 Improper seating position

 Improper desk height

 Improper seat height

 Lack of muscle support from the chair

 Lack of adjustments based in individual needs and comfort

When done incorrectly, these activities affect the nervous and muscular system, caus-
ing Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs). Work-related MSDs are among the most-common
reported causes of loss of work and absenteeism. However, rotator cuff injuries, tendinitis,
muscle strains, and back injuries can be prevented thanks to ergonomics in the workplace.

Figure 5: Problem areas during sitting

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Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021

Ergonomics uses anthropometrical data to determine the optimum size, shape and form
of a product, and make it easier for people to use. Ergonomists can help you to identify
which user characteristics you should take into account during your design process. This is
important when you consider how much individuals vary in terms of:

 Body Size

 Body Shape

 Strength

 Mobility

 Sensory Sensitivity

 Mental Ability

 Experience

 Training

 Culture

 Emotions

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 19

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
3.3 Objectives

The Ergonomic Smart Chair aims to achieve the following objectives:

 Posture Support: With the full-length design and the support for natural pos-
ture, the user is sure that the chair will help enhance their posture.

 Enhanced Productivity: ergonomically designed and comfortable working

environment can have a major impact on employee happiness, as well as their productiv-
ity.

 Reduced Pain: sing the ergonomic chair promises better relaxation and re-
duced body pains because those important pain points are properly supported.

 Reduces Hips Pressure: ergonomic chair helps to reduce hip pressure by

providing suitable seat depth to support the hips.

 Increased Blood Circulation: any movement that raises our metabolic rate
above the normal stationary resting rate (sitting) can have profound long-term health ben-
efits and decrease our chance of those rather scary diseases and illnesses.

 Fewer Worker Compensation Claims: Employees are more comfortable

when sitting on a chair with a headrest and spine support, they wouldn’t have much to
bother about their health. Their health will instead be improved the more because they are
relaxed and happy.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 20

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021

CHAPTER 4
METHODOLOGY

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Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021

Chapter 4
Methodology

The conceptual design is based on the problem definition. The modelling is done based
on the literature review and information from various other websites. The 3D model is con-
structed in Solidworks 2018. Each part is made with measurements for the average user in
mind. Thus, each part is custom made, other than the cater wheels. The final assembly is done
by using the relevant mating procedures.

Analysis is performed using ANSYS Workbench Student Version. The loading is static
structural, as expected on a chair. Various loads are applied to account for different weights of
users. The results are noted down and documented.

Literature Design 3D
Analysis
review planning modelling

Figure 6: Flow of work done

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Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
4.1 Elevating screw mechanism

The elevation of the Ergonomic Smart Chair is dictated by a low speed, high torque
electric motor mounted under the base of the chair. This motor can be connected to a DC
battery, or connected to main via a DC inverter.

The shaft of the motor is threaded, with an identical thread present on the nut of the
seating base. When coupled, the rotation of the shaft moves the seat up or down, much like a
glue stick mechanism.

However, because the rotation of the shaft will turn the chair itself, 4 studs have been
provided on the base which pass through the seating lever. This ensures a rotation lock, as well
as provides for a smoother vertical motion.

Figure 7: Screw mechanism in glue stick

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 23

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
4.2 Stepper motor

A stepper motor is an electromechanical device it converts electrical power into me-

chanical power. Also, it is a brushless, synchronous electric motor that can divide a full rota-
tion into an expansive number of steps. The stepper motor working principle is Electro-
Magnetism. It includes a rotor which is made with a permanent magnet whereas a stator is
with electromagnets. Once the supply is provided to the winding of the stator then the magnetic
field will be developed within the stator. Now rotor in the motor will start to move with the
rotating magnetic field of the stator.
There are three main types of stepper motors, they are:

 Permanent magnet stepper

 Hybrid synchronous stepper
 Variable reluctance stepper

Figure 8: Stepper motor armature

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 24

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
4.3 Memory foam

Memory foam consists mainly of polyurethane as well as additional chemicals increas-

ing its viscosity and density. It is often referred to as "viscoelastic" polyurethane foam, or low-
resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu). The foam bubbles or ‘cells’ are open, effectively creat-
ing a matrix through which air can move. Higher-density memory foam softens in reaction to
body heat, allowing it to mould to a warm body in a few minutes.
The network effect is the force working to restore the structure of the foam when it is de-
formed. This effect is generated by the deformed porous material pushing outwards to restore
its structure against an applied pressure. There are three effects which work against the net-
work effect: the pneumatic effect, the adhesive effect, and the relaxation effect. These, com-
bined, effectively slow the regeneration of the original structure of the foam, and allow for
applications like memory foam mattresses. The pneumatic effect is caused by the time it takes
for air to flow into the porous structure of the foam. The adhesive effect, or adhesion, is caused
by the stickiness of the surfaces within the memory foam, which work against decompression,
as the internal pores within the memory foam are pressed together by an applied pressure. The
relaxation effect is the largest magnitude of the three forces working against expansion, and is
caused by the memory foam’s material being near its glass transition temperature.

Figure 9: Memory foam

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 25

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021

4.4 Arduino

Arduino is open-source hardware. The hardware reference designs are distributed un-
der a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike 2.5 license and are available on the Arduino
website. Layout and production files for some versions of the hardware are also available.
Arduino microcontrollers are pre-programmed with a boot loader that simplifies uploading of
programs to the on-chip flash memory. The default bootloader of the Arduino Uno is the Opti-
boot bootloader. Boards are loaded with program code via a serial connection to another com-
puter. Some serial Arduino boards contain a level shifter circuit to convert between RS-
232 logic levels and transistor–transistor logic (TTL) level signals. Current Arduino boards
are programmed via Universal Serial Bus (USB), implemented using USB-to-serial adapter
chips such as the FTDI FT232. The Arduino board exposes most of the microcontroller's I/O
pins for use by other circuits. Many Arduino-compatible and Arduino-derived boards exist.
Some are functionally equivalent to an Arduino and can be used interchangeably. Many en-
hance the basic Arduino by adding output drivers, often for use in school-level education, to
simplify making buggies and small robots. Others are electrically equivalent, but change the
form factor, sometimes retaining compatibility with shields, sometimes not. Some variants use
different processors, of varying compatibility.

Figure 10: Arduino module

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CHAPTER 5
MODELLING

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Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021

Chapter 5

Modelling

The various parts of the Ergonomic Smart Chair have been modelled in Solidworks,
and illustrated as below.

5.1 Base:

Figure 11: Base model

The base is made up of Cast Steel. The model above shows the general figure of how
the base will be made to support the entire chair. The base is in a truncated conical shape for
better distribution of weight. The base will also house 5 generic polymer wheels for easy
movement across a surface. Due to this design, the motor that elevates the seat can be mounted
on the underside of the base.

The base holds two supporting posts for the armrest. These will house the armrest as-
sembly and allow for up and down movement of the armrest. The posts are hollow, through
which the armrest poles move freely. With the manual adjustment each of the armrest can be
adjusted to different heights according to user needs.

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The centre of the base has 4 studs to mount the seating base. The long studs prevent
the seating assembly from turning independently, as well as provide linear motion vertically.
The seating assembly also has 4 holes through which the studs pass.

The bottom and conical part of the base will also house the motor, that is use to drive
the height adjustment of the seating assembly; the battery, which will power the entire chair;
and also, the arduino logic board will also be housed here. The wiring of the entire chair will
go through the base for efficient control of cable management.

Also attached to the base is a hard mounted foot rest so the user can adjust the height
of the chair to his/her needs relative to the footrest. The turning of the entire chair takes place
with the help of the wheels, therefore the respective positions of the armrest and the footrest
to the seating assembly will always be fixed.

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5.2 Elevation Motor

Figure 12: Elevating motor model

The elevation motor is a high torque and low speed motor. The motor is mounted to
the underside of the base, directly below the seating assembly post.

The motor shaft is a threaded to the seating assembly. The threading action of a nut
attached to the seating assembly will allow for the raising and the lowering of the chair. The
long studs that were attached to the seating assembly will also prevent the motor from turning
the entire seating assembly independently.

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5.3 Stepper Motors

Figure 13: Stepper motor model

A stepper motor, also known as step motor or stepping motor, is a brushless DC electric
motor that divides a full rotation into a number of equal steps. The motor's position can be
commanded to move and hold at one of these steps without any position sensor for feedback
(an open-loop controller), as long as the motor is correctly sized to the application in respect
to torque and speed.
This motor will be used in the adjustment of the backrest and the arm rest positions of
the chair.

 In the back rest, it will be used to adjust the lumbar support to varying degrees for finer
position for the user.
 In the arm rest, it will be used for adjustment of the armrest height for users needs. Both
the armrests can be individually adjusted or adjusted simultaneously.

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5.4 Seat

Figure 14: Seat model underside

The seat assembly is the most important part of the chair and has the most amount of
parts involved in it. The seat comprises of two parts connected by a lever under the chair. The
lever is also supported by a loaded spring for comfort.

The lever acts as a balancing mechanism for the seat, when the user is seated on the
edge of the seat the main seat cushion rises up to support the lower back of the user; and when
the user leans back to sit while resting the edge of the seat rises to support the thighs and the
knee of the user, thus reducing fatigue. Since it is triggered by the weight of the user, it does
not require power.

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Figure 15: Seat model side view

The entire seat assembly is supported by the loaded spring and the pivot point of the
lever. The cushions on the seat are made up of breathable memory foam. The foam has perfo-
rations so as to reduce perspiration arising from lack of breathability.

The upholstery of the covering material used for the cushions are nylon and cotton
blend material. The cotton in the material allows for breathability of the cushions and the nylon
is for durability of the seat covers.

The memory foam cushion is also moulded to fit the outer thighs and support them
during the prolonged sitting hours of the user. The quality of the memory foam allows for long
sitting hours without getting uncomfortable.

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5.5 Arm Rest

Figure 16: Armrest model

The armrest of the chair is mounted direct onto the base to allow for independent move-
ment. Its attached to the base by a pole and is equipped with a stepper motor to raise it up and
lower it down.

The underside of the armrest is equipped with sturdy rollers to move it TO and FRO
from the user. This is necessary as the sometimes the distance between the chair and the desk
surface is very far; and the hanging of free mass from the wrist and forearms may lead to
fatigue in hands and long term risks include carpel tunnel syndrome.

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The surface of the arm rest also has the memory foam but in a smaller layer as the mass
of an arm is relatively less to the mass of the body. The memory foam also covers the outer
parts of the arm rest, so when hit by sudden movement by the user the arm rest will not cause
and harm in the collision.

On one of the armrest, the housing for the controls of the entire chair will be put in.
The buttons and the frame of the controller are embedded inside the foam so as to not cause
any kind of discomfort to the user.

The controller will have controls for the backrest, the lumbar support; the arm rest,
height adjustment of the armrest; The seat assembly, to move the seating assembly up and
down. All these controls will be done by the arduino unit in the base. The controls on the
armrest is provided for the user customization according to their preference.

Figure 17: Roller mechanism for armrest

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5.6 Back Rest

Figure 18: Backrest model

The back rest of the chair is made of two parts. The first part is the frame of the back
rest made of steel and the cushion for comfort. The frame is made with supports for the cush-
ions and the housing for the stepper motor behind the cushions.

The cushions are again made of memory foam and the it will be sculpted to the back
shape of a general user. The upholstery of the cushions will be the same as the seat with nylon
and cotton blend material.

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Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021

Figure 19: Backrest rear view with motor visible

The bar in the center is for mounting a stepper motor. Similar to the elevating motor,
it moves the lower back cushion linearly. This gives an even pressure against the lower back,
aiding in good posture. The stepper motor is used for the movement of the lumbar supports of
the back rest.

The lower back support is necessary if and when the user is sitting for long duration.
Without this support the long sitting hours will hurt the lower back for supporting the entire
upper body. The stepper motor helps in adjusting the lower back support of the backrest
providing varying steps of adjustment.

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5.7 Assembled Chair

Figure 20: Assembled chair side view

The above image shows the entire assembly of the parts. The assembly shows our view
of the how the ERGONOMIC SMART CHAIR is, as a finished product.

 The base holding the two arm rests posts, and has mounted under it, the motor, and the
caster wheels.
 The studs facilitate up and down motion of the seating mechanism, but do not allow it to
rotate, by providing locking.
 The seat is a split design which provides under thigh support relative to the weight of the
user.
 Arm-rests are mounted on the seat posts, they can move up and down, swivel, and move
to and fro.

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Figure 21: Chair isometric view

 The lower back support is controlled by the motor. It moves until it rests firmly against the
back of the user. This prevents slouching.
 The top cushion is a sculpted design to accommodate the natural curve of the spine, this
prevents a head-forward posture, common among desk workers.
 The entire chair is thus designed keeping ergonomics in mind, thus it has very little in
common with commercially available chairs.
 It is important to note that the chair is designed with the number one priority being long
term health, not comfort. Thus, it may be slightly uncomfortable for first time users, but it
guarantees better posture in the long run.

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CHAPTER 6
ANALYSIS

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Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021

Chapter 6
Analysis

Analysis of each load bearing component of the Ergonomic Smart Chair is performed
using Ansys Workbench. The components are tested for three different loads, and the middle
option is illustrated as follows. The results are noted and documented. The parts are tested by
applying static stress loads. The results are total deformation and maximum stress.

6.1 Analysis procedure

 The part is converted into STEP format.
 The part (now called as geometry) is loaded into Ansys workbench.
 Meshing is done, using in built tool.
 Fixed support condition is applied to the face of the part that is usually fixed when
used in the chair.
 Appropriate load is applied to the part in the direction as needed.
 Loads are applied in terms of component, but in cases where the part is not parallel to
primary axes, vector loads are specified.
 The results needed are Total Deformation and Equivalent Von Mises stress, this is ap-
plied to the geometry.
 The analysis is initiated, and we get the result in terms of mm deformation and MPa
Von Mises stress.
 The procedure is repeated for varying loads as forces, and the result is obtained and
tabulated.

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6.2 Analysis of base

Figure 23: Base deformation

Figure 22: Stress in base

Force 1 – 1000N Force 2 – 1250N Force 3 – 1500N

Max Deformation
5.6 8.2 9.91
(mm)
Max Von Mises
152 224 269
Stress (MPa)
Fixed at point - Base -
Point of max defor-
- Footrest welds -
mation
Point of max stress - Footrest welds -

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 42

Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
6.3 Analysis of armrest

Figure 24: Armrest deformation

Figure 25: Stress in armrest

Force 1 – 40N Force 2 – 80N Force 3 – 120N

Max Deformation
2.9x10^-4 5.8x10^-4 8.83x10^-4
(mm)
Max Von Mises
0.274 0.548 0.822
Stress (MPa)
Fixed at point - Armrest post -
Point of max defor-
- Armrest cushioning -
mation
Point of max stress - Centre of cusioning -

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, KSIT 43

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6.4 Analysis of support lever

Figure 26: Lever pivot deformation

Figure 27: Stress in lever

Force 1 – 850N Force 2 – 1000N Force 3 – 1250N

Max Deformation
0.9 1.3 1.9
(mm)
Max Von Mises
385.2 539.6 770.3
Stress (MPa)
Fixed at point - Pivot point -
Point of max defor- Farthest sector from
- -
mation pivot
Point of max stress - Thinnest section -

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Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021
6.5 Analysis of backrest frame

Figure 28: Backrest deformation

Figure 29: Stress in backrest

Force 1 – 250N Force 2 – 300N Force 3 – 350N

Max Deformation
3.4 4.03 4.77
(mm)
Max Von Mises
64.5 77.4 90.36
Stress (MPa)
Fixed at point - Screw holes -
Point of max defor-
- Top of frame -
mation
Junction of vertical
Point of max stress - and horizontal sec- -
tions

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CHAPTER 7
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

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Chapter 7
Results and Conclusion

7.1 Results:

 The Ergonomic Smart Chair is found to be suitable for daily usage as it passes all the
parameters of an office chair in stress testing and deformation under load.
 The maximum deformation seen is near the top of the backrest, which is normal for all
chairs and within the expected range.
 The life of the chair is expected to be around 7 years. The parts expected to see the
most wear and tear are the caster wheels and armrest motors.

7.2 Comparison with traditional chair:

 Compared to a normal chair, the stresses and deformation are found to be similar, thus
the life expectancy of the structure is similar.
 The use of memory foam in the Ergonomic Smart Chair means that the cushioning
does not sag after a few months of use. This guarantees longer lifespan as well as better
comfort for a longer period of time.
 All load-bearing parts are mounted on structural components like the base and
backrest, thus there is very little chance of breakage.
 The health benefits are much greater, as it is built from the ground up with principles
of ergonomics.
 There is no pneumatic cylinder for height adjust, therefore it does not lose potency and
become bouncy like a normal chair.
 The fixed backrest is less comfortable for relaxing but provides better support when
working. The fixed nature also ensures less parts that may require repair in the long
run.

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7.3 Conclusion

The Ergonomic Smart Chair has been conceptualized, designed, modelled, and ana-
lyzed with real world conditions in mind. It incorporates the principles of ergonomics into the
smallest aspects of its design. It is not based on the design of any existing chair, so it is free to
take on any form that the principles of ergonomics dictate. Thus, it is an ideal model of an
ergonomic chair.

The results from stress testing the model in Ansys Workbench shows that the defor-
mation and stresses induced in each part is well within the expected range for an office chair
in real world usage. Thus, we can consider it a valid design and suitable for production.

Due to the Ergonomic Smart Chair being an ideal concept, there are challenges to be
faced in manufacturing. For instance, the costs of the motors can be reduced or even eliminated
by replacing it with mechanical alternatives like pneumatic cylinders, which are cheap and
easily available. The Arduino unit, used for usage tracking and control of the motors, can be
eliminated to further reduce costs. The weight of the chair can be drastically reduced by using
ABS plastic in place of cast steel and other metals, which can also cut costs.

Despite the shortcomings, the Ergonomic Smart Chair is a concept that can be studied
and implemented, by using aspects of its design in the manufacture of ergonomic chairs of the
future.

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Future scope

 It can be used as a replacement for a traditional chair in offices and educational insti-
tutions.
 It is a direct replacement for expensive ergonomic chairs from reputable manufactur-
ers.
 It can be modified and parts such as the motors can be replaced with mechanical alter-
natives to save costs.
 The ergonomic principles used in this chair can be applied to chair design in the future.
 The split cushion design can be adopted by large scale manufacturers to add as an
option to existing chairs.
 The armrest mechanism can be adopted in chairs as well as design of desks to minimize
fatigue and prevent carpal tunnel syndrome.
 The design of the chair can be incorporated into other seating aspects like benches, car
seats, etc.

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Ergonomic Smart Chair 2020-2021

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9. “Backrest Shape Affects Head–Neck Alignment and Seated Pressure” by Atsuki Ukita,
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