Percentile Ranges in Anthropometrics
Definition
Percentile
A percentile is a value that shows how a data point compares to the rest of the data, dividing the set into 100 equal parts.
Definition
Percentile Range
A percentile range represents the proportion of a population whose body dimensions fall at or below a certain value.
- Anthropometric data is typically presented in tables or charts that show a range of body measurements for a specific population.
- Each measurement is listed alongside key percentiles, commonly the 5th, 50th, and 95th.
5th Percentile
- The value below which 5% of the data falls.
- Consideration for smaller individuals.
- A consideration when involving reach and accessibility.
- Door handle height: Allows shorter users and children to open doors independently
- Emergency stop buttons: Positioned so even the shortest user can reach quickly
50th Percentile
- The middle value (median), divides the data into two halves.
- Average individuals.
- Used for general use products with low safety risk.
- Bathtub depth: Designed to allow the average adult to enter and exit comfortably, while providing sufficient water coverage for bathing.
- Kitchen counter height: Based on average standing elbow height for comfortable working
- Designing exclusively for the 50th percentile can exclude a significant portion of the population.
- Always consider the broader range of users.
