Türgriffmodell

Türgriffmodell, often translated as "door handle model" or "door lever model," is a conceptual framework used in various fields, particularly in design, psychology, and ergonomics, to understand user interaction with door handles and similar interfaces. The core idea is that the design and form of a door handle can convey information about how it should be operated, reducing the need for explicit instructions or cognitive effort from the user.

This model suggests that a door handle's shape, material, texture, and placement can intuitively signal whether it should be pushed, pulled, twisted, or slid. For instance, a lever handle with a downward curve might suggest pulling, while a knob might imply twisting. A flat plate might suggest pushing. This principle is rooted in affordances, a concept introduced by psychologist James J. Gibson and further developed by design theorist Don Norman, which posits that the perceived and actual properties of an object offer clues to how it can be used.

Applying the Türgriffmodell aims to create more user-friendly and accessible designs. By aligning the physical characteristics of a door handle with its intended function, designers can improve usability, reduce errors, and enhance the overall user experience. This is especially important in public spaces where a diverse range of users with varying physical abilities and cognitive loads interact with doors daily. The concept extends beyond doors to other interactive elements like buttons, switches, and even digital interfaces.