A TRIZ approach to motorcycle passenger comfort in developing an ergonomic Backrest

Motorcycle ride-hailing services are increasingly popular among women in Indonesia, but concerns about comfort and safety, particularly regarding physical contact with drivers, remain significant. This study explores the application of the TRIZ method to design an ergonomic backrest specifically for female passengers, addressing these concerns through innovative solutions. The backrest design incorporates anthropometric data of Indonesian women to ensure compatibility with user body dimensions. Key dimensions include a height of 64.95 cm, shoulder width of 41.06 cm, and headrest width of 20 cm, with added allowances of 2–5 cm for height and 2–4 cm for width. Using aluminum alloy for the frame, polyurethane foam with synthetic leather for padding, and high-carbon steel for support legs, the backrest is equipped with adjustable height, quick-lock mechanisms, and anti-slip features. Testing demonstrated that the design effectively improves passenger comfort and creates a safe distance between passengers and drivers, particularly during long journeys. Despite its success, this study is limited by the exclusion of cost considerations and testing confined to specific conditions. Future research is recommended to explore cost analysis, broader field trials, additional features such as foldable designs, and material durability to enhance the backrest’s practicality and inclusivity.