There is not a place in the world that you can go without encountering a seat, but still seats and chairs are ubiquitous enough that we still take them for granted. There are the types of objects that are severely missed when they are not present, but often overlooked when they are there.

Seating manufacturers come in different sizes shapes and functions. They may cover one or several aspects of making seats. However the technology and engineering is not always applicable to different areas.

Although human bodies may be identical, seating manufacturers around the world are still faced with various challenges, as seats made for one region, may be unsuitable in other regions. As the world becomes more closely connected, it would be normal to expect habits, and customs to become more closely assimilated. We would also expect that since seats are used everywhere, that seating manufacturers will have a much easier time in developing or innovating seating products.

The problem may lie in the fact the products in the seating industry are wide and varied and the lack of opportunism for uniformity may in fact be a blessing in disguise. Each industry may have its own specific seating specialist, and although the basic function of the seat remains the same, there are individual requirements for seating in various industries.

There is much research that goes into the field of manufacturing seats for the automotive industry. Automotive seats may be seen as a fixed type of seating, and acknowledging that a lot of time is spent in vehicles; manufacturers dedicate a lot of time and resources to creating products that comfortable, safe and ergonomically correct. The research involves several areas that include biomechanics, ergonomics, artificial intelligence, simulation and modeling, and even mechanics. Studies include examining how the human body behaves during simulated crashes, and there are some extensive studies in the thermal and mechanical reaction of certain materials and fabrics.

The research that is being conducted by office seating manufacturers may not be as intense, perhaps because the stakes may not be as large, but they may also be focused on different factors. Research has focused on the best sitting positions, along with functions that keep other parts of the body active. One of the most expensive office chairs is a radically designed chair that promises to keep workers happy and creative. Office chairs must also be aesthetically attractive, as they must be often compliment office decor. Office workers also sit for long periods each day, so some time must be spent in chairs that are comfortable. Research also continues in durable construction as well as suitable fabrics.

Another area that attracts some attention for manufacturers is in airline seats. Some airlines go extravagant lengths, to ensure that customers get the most comfortable seats possible, but the challenge to manufacturers, is to develop comfortable seating systems that are used in restricted spaces. Design elements now include seats that lie flat, with telescoping parts that can be extended, or they may include padded head rests for extra comfort.

Seating manufacturers are faced with challenges. The challenges are dictated by changing consumer tastes, but the technology is available for seating manufacturers to quickly adapt. You can find out more here.