Application of ergonomic principles in designing of human powered vehicle - the "pedal car"

Abstract

Transportation is one of the key issues currently we face in Sri Lanka. Situation has become more complex with soaring fuel price. Further, petroleum fuel powered vehicles cause enormous environmental problems particularly in urban areas. A recent research has revealed that over 60% of all vehicles plying Sri Lankan roads are within the borders of the Colombo Metropolitan Region (CMR). Approximately 75% of the pollutants released to the air originate from the transport sector. On the other hand, being a poor nation having a per capita income of less than U$ 1200per annum, automobile is a luxury for the average person. Therefore use of Human Powered Vehicles (HPV) for day to day transportation becomes worth investigation and promotion.