Development of a Usability and Functionality Assessment Tool for Riding Lawn Equipment

Abstract

Riding lawn equipment (RLE) is a common household appliance. Methods are needed for systematic evaluation of RLEs in order to promote usability and safety for users. Current RLE research and guidelines were used as a basis for developing a new tool for scoring modern RLEs in terms of a range of design features. In this paper, we outline the development and application of the riding lawn equipment evaluation tool (RLEval) for measuring and reporting RLE conformance with existing ISO and ANSI safety, usability, and functionality standards. Additionally, recommendations are made for RLE guideline enhancements and guideline literature limitations are identified. Preliminary evaluations of multiple RLE models were conducted to assess the utility and reliability of the RLEval and to compare tractors.