What does ergonomics focus on in engineering design?

Ergonomics is a critical aspect of engineering design that centers on maximizing user comfort, efficiency, and safety. This discipline involves understanding how people interact with products and systems to create designs that accommodate their physical and cognitive abilities. By focusing on user comfort, ergonomics helps reduce the risk of injury and enhances overall user satisfaction and productivity.

When engineers consider ergonomics, they examine factors such as the size and shape of products, the forces required to use them, and the layout of workspaces. This holistic approach ensures that products not only function well but also fit seamlessly into the lives of users, making them easier and safer to use.

The other aspects listed, such as minimizing costs, optimizing aesthetic appeal, and enhancing material selection, while important in engineering design, do not align with the primary focus of ergonomics. Instead, ergonomics prioritizes the human experience within the design process, ensuring that end-users are at the forefront of product development.