Sustainable Hygiene Solutions: Developing a Foot-Operated Door Mechanism for Communal Spaces Using TRIZ and Universal Design Principles

Kai-Chao Yao, Chun-Nu Cheng, Kuo-Yi Li, Jing-Ran Xu, Wei-Lun Huang, Wei-Sho Ho (), Chin-Wen Liao (), Shu-Chen Yang, Hui-Ling Hsiao, Yin-Chi Lin and Ching-Yi Lai
Additional contact information
Kai-Chao Yao: Department of Industrial Education and Technology, National Changhua University of Education Bao-Shan Campus, No. 2, Shi-Da Rd., Changhua City 500208, Taiwan
Chun-Nu Cheng: Department of Industrial Education and Technology, National Changhua University of Education Bao-Shan Campus, No. 2, Shi-Da Rd., Changhua City 500208, Taiwan
Kuo-Yi Li: Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, National Chin-Yi University of Technology, No. 57, Sec. 2, Zhongshan Rd., Taiping Dist., Taichung City 411030, Taiwan
Jing-Ran Xu: Department of Industrial Education and Technology, National Changhua University of Education Bao-Shan Campus, No. 2, Shi-Da Rd., Changhua City 500208, Taiwan
Wei-Lun Huang: Department of Industrial Education and Technology, National Changhua University of Education Bao-Shan Campus, No. 2, Shi-Da Rd., Changhua City 500208, Taiwan
Wei-Sho Ho: Department of Industrial Education and Technology, National Changhua University of Education Bao-Shan Campus, No. 2, Shi-Da Rd., Changhua City 500208, Taiwan
Chin-Wen Liao: Department of Industrial Education and Technology, National Changhua University of Education Bao-Shan Campus, No. 2, Shi-Da Rd., Changhua City 500208, Taiwan
Shu-Chen Yang: Department of Nursing, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, No. 666, Buzi Rd., Beitun Dist., Taichung City 406053, Taiwan
Hui-Ling Hsiao: Department of Nursing, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, No. 666, Buzi Rd., Beitun Dist., Taichung City 406053, Taiwan
Yin-Chi Lin: Department of Nursing, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, No. 666, Buzi Rd., Beitun Dist., Taichung City 406053, Taiwan
Ching-Yi Lai: Department of Nursing, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, No. 666, Buzi Rd., Beitun Dist., Taichung City 406053, Taiwan

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 19, 1-20

Abstract: Traditional door mechanisms in public spaces, such as knob locks and standard handles, require manual contact, making them prone to contamination and posing significant health risks. To address the critical need for a safer and more hygienic solution, this study aimed to develop an innovative foot-operated door mechanism that is accessible and intuitive for all users. The study applies the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ), ergonomic principles, and universal design to develop the foot-operated mechanism, while using Importance–Performance Analysis (IPA) and the Kano model to evaluate user satisfaction and identify design improvements. The foot-operated mechanism developed in this study features internal and external pedals for seamless door operation, a secure locking system, and color-coded indicators for clear occupancy status communication, ensuring both ease of use and privacy. The design significantly enhances hygiene by minimizing manual contact and improves user convenience, as confirmed through the IPA-Kano analysis. This mechanism not only provides a practical and effective solution to contamination risks but also demonstrates versatility, making it suitable for various public spaces and accessible to a wide range of users. This study represents a significant contribution to public infrastructure by providing a safer, more hygienic, and sustainable solution for door operation in public spaces.

Keywords: foot-operated door mechanism; TRIZ; ergonomics; universal design; IPA; Kano model (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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