Laboratory furniture design plays a very important role in the design of the laboratory interior environment. In particular, the design of laboratory workbench and laboratory chair directly affects the effectiveness of this core environment. Ergonomics takes human-machine-environment as the research object, and realizes the optimization of human-machine system performance by revealing the law of interrelationship between human-machine-environment, so as to improve the living and working environment.
This paper discusses the design of laboratory furniture from the perspective of ergonomics, that is, the full use of ergonomics in the design of furniture, try to meet the ergonomic needs of users, so that experimenters feel convenient and comfortable to operate the experiment, gently and pleasantly, so as to improve productivity.
Why ergonomics in the laboratory is critical?
Imagine: the experimenter, precision instruments, laboratory tables, chairs, cabinets and the entire laboratory environment, together constitute a complex “man-machine-environment” system. Ergonomics uses anthropometric, physiological and psychological data to analyze the physical structure, psychological state and mechanical needs of laboratory personnel during operation. Its core is to make the laboratory furniture design fit the human body and mind characteristics, and ultimately enhance operational efficiency, health and safety, and bring comfort.
Current pain points of laboratory furniture
Unfortunately, many laboratory furniture designs are not human-centered. This directly leads to operational inconvenience, and even health hazards:
- Inappropriate height of the laboratory table: too high to lead to shrugging, neck and shoulder pain; too low to make people hunch over, back pressure.
- Desktop space is limited: arm extension is limited, shoulder and elbow muscles continue to tension, easy fatigue and pain.
- Lab Layout confusion: instruments and materials are not clearly partitioned and stacked haphazardly. This not only visual fatigue, more likely to lead to misuse!
- Laboratory chairs are not up to standard: the style is simple and too hard. Sitting for a long time in the experiment, back pain is almost a foregone conclusion.
These problems not only torment the body of the experimenter, but also seriously drag down the efficiency and accuracy of the experiment.
Ergonomic lab benches: the cornerstone of comfort and efficiency
The design of an outstanding lab bench must incorporate the principles of ergonomics, interior design and operator interface design. The goal is clear: to create a comfortable, visually friendly and smooth platform for the user. It must be perfectly adapted to the needs of the user while fulfilling the function of the experiment.
- The golden rule of space design:
- Ideal Height: The table height is usually around 70cm (to be adjusted according to the user group). This helps to maintain correct sitting posture. The key principle is: the table top should be slightly higher than the user’s elbow height when sitting.
- Adequate width: The width of the table must be greater than the width of the user’s elbows to ensure free arm movement.
- Leg room: the lower part of the must leave enough space, easy to move the seat, legs stretch freely. Avoid prolonged curling up, resulting in fatigue.
- Dynamic considerations: Experiments are often time consuming. A good design encourages the user to change positions to avoid the strain of a single position. Space to move around is key.
- Operator panels: simplified, precise and efficient
- Conventional panels are often irritating and risky. Ergonomic design focuses on “human-machine interaction”.
- Core principle: Prioritize accuracy and speed of operation. Control buttons, knobs and other components must be well laid out and within easy reach.
- Visual friendliness: Instrument panels should be non-reflective and dark in color. The layout is clear, logical, easy to remember and quick to locate.
- Sensory synergy: Ensure that the main operating objects are within optimal view. Haptic feedback is clear, combined with auditory cues where necessary.
- Aesthetics and intuition: The panel design should be simple and generous, easy to understand the logo. The operation process is clearly guided, so that the experimental process is smooth and unobstructed. Aesthetics enhance the sense of pleasure and indirectly improve efficiency.
Laboratory chairs: “behind the scenes” to support efficient research
The lab chair is by no means dispensable. A bad chair can quickly destroy comfort and concentration. Ergonomic lab chair design must be based on rigorous anthropometric data, sitting physiology and body pressure distribution studies.
- Core elements of comfort support:
- Fit the curve: The shape of the cushion and backrest should fit the natural physiological curve of the human body (especially the S-shape of the spine) to maintain the normal physiological position and reduce the pressure on the lumbar spine.
- Adjustable height: The height of the seat and backrest must be adjustable! Different heights and different experimental tasks require flexible adjustment.
- Strength of lumbar support: The lumbar support should provide sufficient support. Normally, it is required to withstand a horizontal force of 250N with a tilt angle of no more than 115 degrees. Flexibility and rigidity need to be balanced.
- Material: The seat cushion should be soft and firm. All exposed parts must be smooth and burr-free to avoid scratching or discomfort. Sitting feeling directly affects the working mood and staying power.
- Work scene: must ensure that the maximum freedom of movement of laboratory chair, leaving enough space for operation.
Laboratory cabinets: Ergonomic integration of safety and order
Laboratory cabinets store a variety of instruments and objects, which can easily become cluttered and pose safety risks. Ergonomic design can effectively improve.
- Zoning design principle:
- Consider the cabinet as consisting of components such as doors, door frames, internal structures, top panels, handles, and so on. Each part has its own function and visual requirements.
- Scientific division: According to the functional requirements of the main interface division design. Commonly used methods include equal division, mathematical level, multiple division, but free division (integration of aesthetic laws such as symmetry, balance, rhythm) is more flexible and commonly used.
- Segmentation considerations: Functionality, visual presentation (shape correlation, area balance), material constraints and user aesthetics must be met.
- Interior Optimization: The division of space should be based on human accessibility and comfort. Items must be convenient and easy to access and organize.
- Safety details: The exterior should be curved to maintain smoothness and stability and to prevent accidental knocks.
Color: the silent regulator of the laboratory atmosphere
The science of color is crucial to creating a comfortable and efficient laboratory environment. Color design is the finishing touch to furniture styling.
- Laboratory color strategy:
- Overall tone: usually choose light, comfortable, fresh, atmospheric color scheme. Focus on the purity of the unity and coordination with the overall laboratory environment.
- Commonly used techniques:
- Main and auxiliary color: the main body (such as cabinets, countertops) choose a large area of low purity color (such as light gray, beige). Control panels, seat decorative lines, cabinet handles and other small elements can be used to high-purity bright colors (such as blue, safety yellow) embellishment, to enhance the vitality and recognition.
- Complementary/monochromatic colors: Sometimes used to create specific effects.
- Psychological Impact: Color needs to be subtle and warm. It should reflect the professionalism of the laboratory while making the operator feel calm, happy and focused.
Conclusion: Invest in ergonomics and reap the benefits!
The design of laboratory furniture must firmly implement the “human-centered” concept. A deep understanding and application of ergonomic principles is the greatest respect for the physiological and psychological needs of laboratory operators.
Well-designed ergonomic lab benches, chairs and supporting furniture are more than just a guarantee of comfort. They are the core of building a scientific, convenient and pleasant laboratory environment. Such an environment significantly reduces operational fatigue and errors, and improves lab personnel’s concentration and satisfaction.
What is the end result? An increase in experimental accuracy and a burst of creative energy! This translates directly into higher quality teaching results and more groundbreaking research outputs. Equipping your lab with ergonomic furniture is a smart investment in efficiency, health and innovation.
