Measuring and Modeling Humans for Improved Safety and Accommodation

Don B. Chaffin Collegiate Research Professor · UMTRI Biosciences

I lead research and develop models and tools that improve the safety and performance of a wide range of products and environments. My expertise is centered in biomechanics, anthropometry, and physical ergonomics. After more than 35 years of research and dozens of studies funded by both industry and government, I strive for tangible, near-term improvements in product design, usually by creating state-of-the-art design and assessment tools based on rich human data and novel modeling approaches. My research has grown from automotive safety and vehicle interior layout to encompass a wide range of application domains that benefit from advanced design tools based on human measurement. I'm fortunate to be part of a large, highly integrated team of faculty and staff in the Biosciences Group at the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute. I'm also a Research Professor in the Center for Ergonomics in Industrial and Operations Engineering.