SamsungImaging

Since many years ago, “Ergonomics Design” has been a central theme in the architecture circle aimed at improving communication with the consumers. Although still unfamiliar to many, ergonomics is slowly spreading its presence.

So, what is this ergonomics design?

Ergonomics design is an architectural terminology that refers to human-oriented design that factors in not only the physical appearance of human beings but also the emotion and sentiments of human beings. The term has evolved to describe all products with a design that caters to the psychology and body of human beings. It is different from ‘human friendly design’ that only concerns physical comfort.

Then, let’s take a step back and see what kind of human friendly design products are out there. One of the first things that come to my mind is the keyboard and mouse. Although these products do actually provide way better comfort than traditional products, they fail to replace the existing products to become main stream. I think the root cause relates to the shortcomings of human friendly design, which seeks physical comfort but fails to cater to the psychological stability and pleasure of the users.

Touching on architecture mentioned just a while ago, ever since Bauhaus introduced the modern concept of kitchen in the early 20th century (storage room under the sink, wall cabinet, etc.), human friendly design such as ‘the most efficient traffic flow’ and ‘the most convenient height and angle for storage’ have made great strides.
However, that is no longer enough.
Kitchen evolving from a simple place to cook to an emotional space that creates happiness and bonding among the family members through delightful cooking and delicious food is one of the results of ergonomics design.

In that sense, ixi bicycles are an excellent example.
This bicycle has a removable basket, cup holder and a portable case that can hold a raincoat and simple tools. The bicycle does not use chains or lubricants, which makes it easier to manage and protect your hands from oil. You can even dissemble it and put it in a bag.
So, people-oriented design like this bicycle that not only is human body friendly but also provides satisfaction and comfort is what ergonomics design is all about.
A bicycle that not only promises a comfortable ride but a fun ride as well!

Samsung Camcorder models SMX-C14 and HMX-R10 are designed in a human body way as well, with a 25 degree active angle, but also fully lives the ergonomics design as it also caters to the psychological stability of the user as well.

When you first try using this camcorder, the user friendly design will come as a big benefit, but as you repeat using it over and over, you will find yourself at much more comfort than when using other camcorders. This is because your arms, lifted up to your eye level, do not block your view.

I heard that SMX-C14 won the French ‘Observeur du DesignAward’. The 25 degree active angle that enhances convenience, together with the emotional aspects such as the high glossy material and compact size, I believe, successfully reflect the ergonomics design trend.

Design is ultimately for human beings. You cannot fit people into design – the very reason why I look forward to further growth of ergonomic design.