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Ergonomics and Design

Code 16455
Year 3
Semester S1
ECTS Credits 4
Workload TP(45H)
Scientific area Science and Technology
Entry requirements N.A.
Learning outcomes 1. Understand the contribution of Ergonomics in the design and product development process;
2. Understand the concepts and principles of Physical Ergonomics, specifically the biomechanical and anthropometric aspects applied to product design;
3. Be able to select appropriate ergonomic analysis and intervention methodologies for the project's type, and apply them at different stages of product development;
4. Understand the importance of designing products that support the users' mental capabilities;
5. Be able to identify essential requirements to improve user experience, specifically usability, comfort, and safety requirements.
Syllabus 1. Introduction to Ergonomics.
2. Physical Ergonomics: Biomechanics and Anthropometry.
3. Ergonomic Intervention. Ergonomics applied to workplace design.
4. Cognitive Ergonomics.
5. Interface. Human-Machine Interface.
6. Interface Evaluation Project. Usability, Accessibility, Emotion/Affectivity.
Main Bibliography Bridger, R.S. (2003) Introduction to Ergonomics. New York: Taylor and Francis, Inc.
Completo, A., Fonseca. F. (2011) Fundamentos de Biomecânica Músculo, Esquelética e Ortopédica. Publindústria.
Crandall, B., Klein, G., Hoffman, R. (2006) Working Minds: A Practicioner´s Guide to cognitive Task Analysis. Cambridge: The MIT Press.
Lowdermilk, T. (2013) User-Centred Design: A Developer’s Guide To Building User Friendly Applications. O’Reilly Media Inc.
Norman, D. (2013) The Design of Everyday Things Revised and Expanded Edition. New York: Basic Books.
Pheasant, S., Haslegrave, C.M. (2006) Bodyspace: Anthropometry, Ergonomics and the Design of Human Work, Third Edition. London: Taylor& Francis.
Rubin, J., Chisnell, D. (2008) Handbook of Usability Testing, Second Edition: How to Plan, Design, and Conduct Effective Tests, Second Edition. Indianapolis: Wiley Publishing, Inc.
Salvendy, G. (2012) Handbook of Human Factors and Ergonomics, 4th Edition. New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Teaching Methodologies and Assessment Criteria The methodology implemented is that of studentcentered learning. This course lasts one semester, involving 45 hours of contact with the teacher and 67 hours of autonomous work (total: 112 hours). Approval for this course unit gives the student 4 ECTS. The classes are organized in theoretical-practical component (TP), which includes the exposition of the syllabus and the resolution of practical exercises to apply the taught contents. The evaluation is performed through two individual written tests (80%) and individual practical exercises to be develop in class (20%).
Students must obtain a minimum grade of 6 values in each one of the evaluation criteria.
It is only possible to improve the grade through the realization of a final exam.
Language Portuguese. Tutorial support is available in English.
Last updated on: 2025-09-09

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