Lesson Plan

• Describe how anthropometric percentiles inform ergonomic dimensions.
• Calculate design limits and adjustment ranges using 5th and 95th percentile data.
• Apply aesthetic proportion principles (e.g., the golden ratio) to ergonomic designs.
• Develop a prototype that accommodates the 5th–95th percentile user group and evaluate its comfort.

• Projector and screen
• Printed anthropometric tables (5th, 50th, 95th percentiles)
• Design brief handout – portable laptop stand
• Graph paper, rulers, and scale bars
• CAD software (optional demonstration)
• Prototype materials (cardboard, balsa wood, fasteners)
• Evaluation checklist and Likert‑scale comfort rating sheets

Begin with a short video showing a poorly fitting product versus a well‑designed one to spark interest. Ask students what makes a product feel comfortable and attractive, linking to prior lessons on ergonomics and aesthetics. Explain that today they will learn how to use real anthropometric data to create inclusive, visually appealing designs, and that success will be measured by accurate calculations and a functional prototype.

1. Do‑Now (5') – Quick quiz on the difference between ergonomics and aesthetics.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Explain anthropometric percentiles, how to read tables, and introduce the golden ratio.
3. Guided calculation (15') – Using the provided elbow‑height data, students compute the required stand height range (350 mm) and set minimum/maximum dimensions.
4. Design challenge (20') – In groups, sketch a portable laptop stand that meets the calculated range and incorporates the golden ratio for visual balance.
5. Prototype build (15') – Construct a simple mock‑up with cardboard or balsa wood.
6. User testing (10') – Peer‑test each prototype, record comfort scores on a 1‑5 Likert scale.
7. Reflection & feedback (5') – Groups discuss how ergonomics and aesthetics were balanced and note improvements.

Recap the key steps: interpreting percentiles, setting ergonomic limits, and applying aesthetic ratios. Students complete an exit ticket stating one design decision they would change after testing. For homework, they refine their sketches in CAD and prepare a brief report linking each dimension to a specific percentile.