Household Corkscrew

thingiverse

The Human Factors Lab's summer internship project involved applying ergonomic design principles to an office cubicle, specifically examining ways to optimize user productivity by minimizing physical and mental stressors associated with typical cubical layouts. Through a combination of literature reviews, participant observation, and interviews, my research aimed to understand the psychological impact of current cubicles on office workers and proposed alternative designs to promote a more conducive work environment. The internship's goals included analyzing various factors such as spatial constraints, furniture configuration, lighting levels, and social interactions within office spaces. In an attempt to maximize workspace comfort and effectiveness, different layout arrangements were tested using physical models and simulations, taking into consideration factors like ergonomics, visibility, noise reduction, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Consequently, the project sought to contribute meaningful insights on ways to design and improve workspaces, not only at universities but also in real-world corporate environments. By engaging actively in an interdisciplinary learning experience combining hands-on experimentation and critical thinking skills, my experience significantly enhanced both professional knowledge and practical problem-solving techniques, all while developing crucial soft skills necessary for teamwork and effective communication with diverse colleagues.