International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 13 Issue: 01 | Jan 2026
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
Pedal ergonomics through mathematical modelling Ashutosh Eknath Satpute1, Saikrishna Buddaram2, Ashish Deshpande3, Harshal Bhamare4 1Assistant Design engineer, Tata Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Pune. 2Design Engineer, Tata Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Pune. 3Manager, Tata Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Pune.
4Design Engineer, Tata Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Pune.
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Abstract - Clutch control/clutch actuation system plays
reports based on the complete vehicular ergonomics, and does not allow designer to further subjugate comfort factor for the improvement solely in the pedal position. So, a high discomfort value can also be caused by improper position of steering wheel or difficulty in accessibility of gear shifter or improper pedal positions or insufficient seat travel.
an important role in disengaging gearbox from engine while shifting gears in manual clutch transmission systems. In designing clutch actuation systems, it is necessary to consider vehicle type, route, and frequency of clutch actuation. Driver should not get a jerky feeling while engaging the clutch and it should not be a fatigue inducing job for the driver in case of frequent clutch operation. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain good pedal ergonomics and lower pedal effort for driving comfort. This in turn increases clutch life and eliminates gearbox failures. A unique mathematical model has been developed to arrive at good pedal ergonomics for a particular percentile population and for a given seat location. Based on this model and benchmark study, we arrive at alternative designs that can meet the requirements with their advantages and disadvantages. Based on comparative analysis, design is finalized. This paper discusses the arriving good ergonomic position of pedal using this model.
SAE paper (2017-26-0252) consists of mathematical model through which designer can run multiple iterations and finalize best possible pedal positions based upon packaging constraints.
2. TERMINOLOGY Hip Breadth-The measured distance between the two human hip centres, marked with abbreviations H1 and H2, in figure 2 Thigh Length-The length corresponding to the human thigh, in figure 3.
Key Words: Ergonomics, pedal, ergo, mathematical, driver, clutch, control, anthropometry
Lower Leg Length-The length corresponding to the lower leg of the leg, in figure 3.
1. INTRODUCTION
Foot Length-The length corresponding to human foot, in figure 3.
Ergonomics is broadly defined as, “How comfortable a system has been defined and / or created for a user to work with it.” In simple words, it is the science of designing ‘the job to fit’ for the worker, not forcing the worker to ‘fit the job’. Ergonomics demands the human machine interaction to be smooth i.e. free from ergonomic injuries. It is also described as ‘Human Factor Engineering’. It plays a major role for its acceptance within the user base and making the product successful.
Pedal Foot Length-The distance between heel point and BOF, in figure 3. Torso angle-The angle measured between the vertical line through H-point and the torso line, in figure 3. Thigh Angle-The angle measured between the thigh centreline and the horizontal line through H-point, in figure 3.
Accelerator, Brake and Clutch Pedal plays a vital role in automotive ergonomics, as driver remains in constant interaction with pedals while driving. Thus, pedal position, orientation and its associated effort have a profound effect on driving comfort of the driver. The major constraint in designing the pedals with design intended position is vehicle packaging. Packaging of other aggregates, especially in commercial vehicles in same space leads to deviation from ideal position of pedals. This deviation causes the deterioration of pedal ergonomics of the vehicle, and quantifying the amount of debilitation is a problem. Simulation software’s have been designed to give the
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Hip Angle-The angle measured between the torso centreline and the thigh centreline, in figure 3. Knee Angle-The angle measured between thigh centreline and the leg centreline, in figure 3. Ankle Angle-The angle measured between the lower leg centreline and the foot, in figure 3. Shoe Plane Angle-The angle measured between the floor of the vehicle (with carpet) and the foot base, in figure 3.
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