Effect of airplane passenger seat armrest height on human neck comfort when using a smartphone

Abstract

Objectives The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between seat armrest height and human neck comfort when using a smartphone while sitting on a passenger seat during the flight. Material and Methods The authors used a wireless angle-measuring instrument and subjective comfort scale to evaluate the changes of head flexion angle and neck comfort level of 24 young smartphone users in an aircraft simulated cabin. Results The study results indicated that using a smartphone while sitting on a passenger seat during the flight would pose a larger discomfort to the neck, and the discomfort would be higher for gaming than reading tasks. Seat armrest height is related to the comfort level of the neck when using a smartphone, increasing the height of the armrest can effectively alleviate discomfort in this state. Conclusions Considering the prevalence of passengers using smartphones in aircraft, a seat armrest that can be properly adjusted in height, which can effectively reduce the risk of passenger head flexion angle and neck discomfort. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2022;35(2):199–208

Keywords

• smartphone
• airplane
• armrest height
• head posture
• neck comfort
• flexion angle