ISO 15536-1:2005

Overview

ISO 15536-1:2005 - Ergonomics - Computer manikins and body templates - Part 1: General requirements defines general requirements for the design, development and documentation of computer manikins, body templates and manikin systems used in ergonomic and workspace design. The standard focuses on ensuring appropriate anthropometric and biomechanical fidelity, describes factors that affect analysis accuracy, and guides selection and evaluation of manikins for specific design tasks. It sets requirements on the static accuracy of manikins and gives recommendations for usability, documentation and factors that influence analysis results. Practical verification with real test persons is advised.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Static accuracy: Manikin shape and measurements must conform to human anthropometry and be verifiable (measurements comparable to population data per ISO 7250).
• Anthropometric issues: Addresses slump (upright vs natural posture - slump factor typically 10–60 mm), soft tissue deformation, and joint movement (e.g., shoulder rotation and reach).
• Usability requirements: Software and systems must be clear, consistent, effective and versatile; follow general usability guidance in ISO 9241-11.
• Anthropometry control: Ability to change manikin measurements readily (select percentiles or set measurements directly), with adjustable ranges between the 1st and 99th percentile of the intended population.
• Posture control: Easy adjustment of posture and fine postural settings to reflect realistic positions for standing and sitting.
• Documentation: Specification of manikin characteristics, intended use and limitations to guide users and ensure traceability.
• Scope limitation: Standard sets requirements only on static accuracy but lists other factors (Annex A) that affect overall analysis accuracy and provides recommendations for them.

Applications

• Workspace and machinery layout design (clearance, access, reach envelopes)
• Vehicle and cockpit ergonomics (seating, controls reach, visibility)
• Furniture and product design (fit, comfort, posture)
• Early-stage design review using CAD-integrated manikin systems to reduce physical prototyping and human testing
• Biomechanical and reach analyses used in safety assessments and human factors studies

Who should use ISO 15536-1:2005

• Ergonomists and human factors professionals
• Product, industrial and transport designers
• Safety and machinery engineers
• CAD and simulation software developers (manikin system vendors)
• Standards committees and procurement teams evaluating manikin systems

Related standards

• ISO 7250 - Basic human body measurements for technological design
• ISO 9241-11 - Usability guidance for VDTs/software
• ISO 12100-1 - Basic concepts and terminology for machinery safety
• EN 614-1 - Ergonomic design principles

Keywords: ISO 15536-1, computer manikins, body templates, ergonomics, anthropometric accuracy, biomechanical properties, manikin systems, static accuracy, usability, ergonomic design.