Evaluating a digital ship design tool prototype: Designers' perceptions of novel ergonomics software

Area of Science:

• Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering
• Human Factors Engineering
• Ergonomics in Design

Background:

• Computer-aided design (CAD) is crucial for ship design optimization.
• Existing design software often overlooks practical ergonomics integration.
• Ergonomics methodologies face challenges in widespread adoption in naval architecture.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore naval architecture students' perceptions of a new ergonomics technology.
• To assess the impact of ergonomics tools on the ship design process.
• To identify barriers to implementing ergonomics in academic and professional naval design.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods research framework was employed.
• Thirteen Masters students in Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering participated.
• Qualitative and quantitative data were collected on software perception and usability.

Main Results:

• Participants recognized the software's potential to enhance design empathy and user understanding.
• Students expressed concerns about the practical and efficient implementation of ergonomics under project constraints.
• A notable disconnect was observed regarding applied ergonomics in naval architecture.

Conclusions:

• The studied ergonomics technology shows promise for improving design considerations for end-users.
• Real-world project constraints and a lack of understanding pose significant challenges to ergonomics adoption.
• Further education and integration strategies are needed to bridge the gap in applied ergonomics for future naval architects.