The Foundation of an Ergonomic Cab

A machine is only as good as it’s cab design. Aside from the predominant aspect of safety, every detail is consequential in the operator’s overall efficiency and productivity. The first, and likely most complex, components of that design are the seat and armrests. There are, of course, the obvious decisions, including seatbelt options and seat material. But every design detail plays a big role in the operator’s overall experience.

Operator Comfort

Aside from being necessary for proper machine application, maintaining clear sight lines is also a determining factor in the operator’s overall comfort. In order to maintain optimal ergonomics, the operator’s seated, functional position must allow him to see the entire application area without straining the neck or holding an unnatural position for any length of time. Prolonged neck or eye strain, while easy to brush off in the short term, will ultimately lead to high levels of fatigue and a higher likelihood for operator incidents.

Another important aspect of operator comfort is the actual seat material. While it may sound simple, material is actually a critical aspect of operator experience as it’s their primary touchpoint to the machine. While leather is the most luxurious and durable, it’s also consequently the costliest option, both in initial installation and upkeep. It requires more maintenance than cloth or vinyl and is not cost effective if exposed to environmental factors. If your machine performs in very harsh environments, heating and cooling options for the seat might also be a desired function to offer the operator maximum comfort. Still, that also comes with its own set of determining factors, including loading and electric components. An OEM must keep all factors in mind when determining seat material, not just cost and feel.

Your application may also have need for protective features like a mechanical or air ride suspension system. While able to significantly improve operator comfort by absorbing jarring machine shocks, cost and installation can be a big factor when determining types of suspension for your seat assembly. Air ride systems require an air compressor and a particular current draw to run. Additionally, the entire functioning assembly weight must be considered, including armrests and the operator, as there are two different levels of maximum weight for air ride seats.

Aside from their impact on other features, armrest assemblies also play a huge role on overall cab ergonomics, as they can contain a majority of the operator’s primary controls. In instances where an armrest is simply for support, some decisions must still be made, like adjustability, extension/retraction capabilities, and put/stay options. However, the addition of custom joystick pods presents an abundance of other decisions, as well. First, pod weight, and therefore the number of controls included, has an impact on how the armrest is mounted to the seat base. But in respect to ergonomics, the more efficiently controls can be organized on an armrest has a direct effect on the operator’s resting hand position and how much exertion is needed to perform the machine’s basic functions.

Operator Efficiency

Aside from just designing the armrest and attached control station for optimal ergonomics, efficient placement of the controls also impacts operator productivity and how long it takes to complete a task. For example, the instinct of an OEM to keep a large number of controls together on the armrest assembly may seem like a good idea in theory. However, many functions are likely not regularly used and would be just as easily accessed through an additional post pillar or added display.

Think about the types of controls incorporated into an operator cab. There are many other ways to give operators easy access to any desired function. But when determining control layout, it’s important to keep in mind which are the top 5% of controls critical for machine usage. For example, HVAC controls should be easy for an operator to adjust, but since they aren’t used for the primary machine application, they can be kept on a separate display as opposed to the armrest assembly. Keeping only those controls most used to perform basic functions of the machine at the operator’s fingertips makes it much more convenient for the operator and ultimately boosts productivity.

Operator Experience

Essentially all of the above factors have a direct impact on overall operator experience. But still, if you are looking to create a luxurious environment, or at least a control station that also fundamentally functions as a comfortable office for the operator’s sometimes lengthy shift, there are additional amenities to consider.

Again, since a cab functions as the operator’s daily office, you must think about what you bring into the office every day. Smartphone, papers, beverages, outerwear. Amenities that are almost essential today include phone storage and convenient USB charging ports. Adding a cupholder, sometimes designed with special features like leveling or shock absorbing functions, are also sure to be appreciated. Document storage, conveniently built into the armrest, could also be beneficial for an operator with work orders or other paperwork necessary for the day. Or even larger storage compartments for work gear or outerwear to get them from the cab to their personal vehicle in cold climates helps keep things out of the way while they operate the machine. All of these features can make a surprisingly big impact not only the operator’s experience, but in turn on their overall efficiency.

It may be possible to choose each of these individual features and functions one-by-one, designing one cohesive unit that integrates easily into your cab significantly simplifies the assembly process and any adjustments or troubleshooting you wish to do down the road.