Ford Motor Company developed a special suit (here's a different story that doesn't require registration) so that young designers could simulate the physical effects of aging. When designers put on the suit and try to operate features in their cars, they learn a lot about what needs to be changed or made easier.
Laansoo can point to how he and Ford's 10 other trained ergonomic engineers have influenced products. There's the Explorer sport-utility with its rear glass that was positioned four inches lower to make it easier to put in groceries. There's the Windstar minivan with its flip-and-fold third-row seats that are now much easier than the original design. That vehicle also has a second rear-view mirror, a so-called conversation mirror, that allows parents (and grandparents) to see rearward without needing to turn their necks.
So um, why doesn't Ford just bring some actual elderly people to test their stuff?
I would think the real thing will bring up issues that a young person in a suit just won't have thought of.
Posted by: Ed | Thursday, February 17, 2005 at 03:05 AM