univerge site banner
Original Article | Open Access | Br. J. Arts Humanit., 6(1), 49-63 | doi: 10.34104/bjah.024049063

A Design of the Digital Bag for Pilgrims Safety

Nermeen Abdel Basset Mohamed* Mail Img ,
Fatimah Ahmed Al-Shamrani Mail Img

Abstract

The study aimed to design digital bags that comply with the functional requirements of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims in the light of ergonomics and then to identify the differences between specialists in achieving design patterns of bags made for pilgrims safety. It also aimed to measure the extent to which Hajj and Umrah pilgrims are satisfied with the proposed designs. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, with a study sample of (301) individuals who had participated in Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. The studys findings indicated statistically significant variations, at a significance level of (0.01) among the six suggested designs for smart bags, based on the feedback from Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. When testing the direction of significance, the two researchers found that design no. 1 was the best among all designs, followed by design no. 3, then design no. 6. Results also showed statistically significant differences at the level of (0.01) among the six suggested designs for smart bags based on the experts assessments. When testing the direction of significance, the researchers found that design no. 1 stood out as the optimal choice, followed by design no. 6, then design no. 2. The study concluded that the ergonomic standards should be applied in the smart design, taking into consideration the safety factor, as the two researchers followed the ergonomic standards within the framework of designing smart bags through several elements, namely locating the bag, combating thefts, and enabling bags with RFID technology to identify the users identity. The study provided an overview of recent trends in the ergonomic field to improve human performance and achieve product development. It resulted in a practical guide to understanding the ergonomic guidelines in smart design. The two researchers recommended considering the ergonomic aspects of fashion design and its supplements, especially the smart ones. They also recommended conducting several studies dealing with the impact of ergonomic considerations on fashion design and its supplements.

INTRODUCTION

Mecca holds a prominent religious significance preda-ting the emergence of Islam, as the Holy Mosque con-tains the Kaaba within its premises. Mecca has long been a destination for pilgrims undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage (Al-Matrafi, 2021). Hajj is a religious duty that must be fulfilled once in a lifetime by every men-tally sound adult Muslim who can afford it. At the same time, Umrah is a religious practice associated with Hajj. It is frequently referred to as the minor pilgrimage. However, Hajj and Umrah must be perfor-med at the Holy Mosque (Muneeza and Mustapha, 2021). It is one of the most substantial yearly religious congregations globally, from the eighth to the twelfth month of Dhul-Hijjah of the Islamic calendar. Con-versely, Umrah is open for performance at any time throughout the year. Umrah contributes significantly to the genuine and all-encompassing economic advan-cement of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as it has become one of the most important drives of the overall influx of private financial resources. Among the benefits of Umrah are interaction with cultures world-wide, active involvement in promoting economic activity, and serving as one of the focal points of the Kingdoms Vision 2030 to facilitate approximately (30) million Umrah pilgrims by 2030. Besides, accor-ding to the statistical metrics of the Umrah sector in the Kingdom, Madinah receives annual visits by (11) million visitors from inside and outside the Kingdom (Seasonal Bulletin of the Chamber of Commerce, Madinah, 1439 AH) (Al-Harbi, 2021).

The Hajj encompasses numerous rituals that must be conducted in a specific sequential order at different locations. It starts with the intention to perform Hajj, then wearing Ihram clothing, and concludes with the final circumambulation around the Kaaba as a farewell (Tawaf al-wadaa) and the departure from Mecca. During this sacred journey (Khan & Shambour, 2021) and taking into account the reality that Hajj represents the densest gathering of Muslims, and due to its distin-ctive characteristics about the individuals participating in it (i.e., Hajj pilgrims), the place where they meet, and the rituals they perform, these characteristics present a series of difficulties for authorities in man-aging the crowd and verifying the identities of the pilgrims. The situation is further complicated because pilgrims dress alike and collectively engage in the same rituals (Muneeza & Mustapha, 2021). So efforts are made to fulfill the objectives outlined in the Kingdoms Vision 2030, in line with the “Guests of Rahman (pilgrims)” program, which is a part of the Kingdoms programs to bring about a substantial improvement in the service provided to pilgrims, aiming to enrich the religious and cultural experience of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims (Mlibari, 2021).

Assisting Hajj and Umrah pilgrims is a national duty and everyones responsibility. God has honored us in this country by serving His Sacred House and the Mosque of His Noble Prophet (PBUH). Technology should be crucial in enhancing the pilgrimage experi-ence and facilitating the fastest use of services. This includes creating the appropriate environment, off-ering pilgrims advantages, and offering them some facilities (Mlibari, 2021). In this environment, the designers are looking for an opportunity to integrate computers and sensors with the human body to facili-tate the communication between humans and the computer components they wear, as they are integrated into clothes, shoes (Ali, 2021), and bags. The study conducted by Al-Sharif, (2021) touched on the neces-sary services provided to pilgrims who lost their official documents because of road congestion or in their places of residence. 

This matter has become an urgent necessity by the competent government agencies, as the document of the "Serving the Guests of Rahman" Program, which was launched by HH the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in Ramadan 1440 AH, is considered one of the most important initiatives of Vision 2030 that aims to achieve a significant improvement in serving the pilgrims. The Ministry of Hajj calls that document "the service document for the rights of the pilgrims partici-pating in Hajj and Umrah,” which allows the pilgrim to become familiar with the rights granted to him (Al-Harbi, 2021).  As highlighted in the study by Khan and Shambour, (2021) many governments, companies, and individuals offer various services and amenities to address the challenges that pilgrims might encounter. Moreover, according to the suggestions provided by Al-Sharif, (2021) utilizing contemporary technology is essential to ease the pilgrims experience throughout the various rituals, especially when losing their official documents. Consequently, the two researchers were dedicated to examining studies and research relevant to the current study to build bases aimed at enhancing the experience of the pilgrims on their spiritual journey. Therefore, with the aim of advancing the Hajj and Umrah industry led by the government of HH, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques towards serving the pilgrims and proceeding from the Kingdoms vision 2030 to prepare to serve the pilgrims, and the national transformation initiatives 2020, the two rese-archers are carried out this study. Therefore, the two researchers aspire to cater to the needs of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims by creating an innovative product (smart bag) that performs a utilitarian function by using the science of ergonomics. Due to a lack of smart bags designed specifically for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims during their rituals, and considering that many available bags in the market do not address the unique requirements of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, the two researchers recognize the importance of exam-ining the incorporation of safety aspects in the design of Hajj and Umrah bags. On the other hand, the find-ings from the research conducted by Shambour & Khan, (2021) revealed a relative deficiency in research studies and quotes related to the Two Holy Mosques and the Holy Sites compared to other branches of science. Accordingly, the study problem can be identi-fied in the following questions:

What statistically significant distinctions exist among the designs of smart bags aimed at ensuring safety, according to the assessments of specialists?

What statistically significant distinctions exist among the designs of smart bags aimed at ensuring safety, according to the opinions of the pilgrims participating in Hajj and Umrah?

Objectives of the Study

Design of digital bags that adhere to the safety stand-ards for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. 

Determination of the differences between specialists in designing smart bag patterns prioritizing safety.

Determination of the differences between Hajj and Umrah pilgrims in their acceptance of the suggested designs for smart bags.

Importance of the Study

They were enhancing the care for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, in line with the vision of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 2030, by providing top-notch services to Hajj pilgrims, starting from their arrival in the King-dom until their departure to their country after God blessed them to perform their rituals with ease and tranquillity.

Design of the Study

The two researchers embraced a pragmatic philosophy due to its alignment with the research objectives. They employed a mixed research methodology to attain a more profound comprehension of the study popula-tion. This data will assist the two researchers in for-mulating questions related to the research tools. In this methodology, the two researchers employed the simul-taneous embedded design to enhance their comprehen-sion of the research questions, objectives, and theories guiding the study. The methodologies employed in this study encompass the data collection tools utilized by the researchers and the data analysis and processing techniques. Additionally, the study suggests specific methods for concluding.

Population and Sample of the Study

The study population comprises Hajj and Umrah pilgrims participating in the Hajj season, (1442 AH). The determination of this population is aligned with the studys objective, which focuses on designing bags that meet the safety requirements of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. The current studys sample comprises a deli-berate selection of (301) Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. The sample size was determined using a statistical equation to calculate the sample size with a confidence interval of 5.6% and a confidence level of 95%. The electronic questionnaire was distributed through cam-paigns targeting the assisting of domestic pilgrims.

Limitations of the Study

Temporal limitations: The temporal boundaries in this study are restricted to the Hajj season of the year 1442 AH. (2021 AD), which is the period of performing the Hajj rituals for 1442 AH (2021 AD).

Spatial limitations: The Holy Sites and their facilities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Objective limitations: While designing the bags, the two researchers built their "Reduction Theory," which depends on the utmost simplicity in design and the ergonomics theory in design. In this study, it was limited to the "safety factor."

Human limitations: The human limitations are set to include the pilgrims involved in the rituals of both Hajj and Umrah only, considering what was decided by the Ministry dedicated to the coordination of Hajj and Umrah, affairs for the season (1442 AH) of controls and mechanisms followed in the Kingdom for precautionary measures.

Terminology of the study

1. Safety: It is an internal feeling that results from security achieved, and it is represented in peoples sense of comfort and tranquility, which creates an appropriate atmosphere for them to carry out all forms of daily life activities without fear, anxiety, or tension (Ibrahim & Abu Al-Saud, 2021).

2. Wearable technology: a subset of interactive devices worn on the body (Dierk, 2020).

3. Digital Hajj bags: Hajj is to go to Makkah Al-Mokarramah (Mecca) during the months appointed to complete the rituals prescribed for Hajj to draw closer to God (Al-Husni, 2020). Umrah is devotion to God Almighty by circumambulating the House (Tawaf), Sai between As-Safa and Al-Marwah, and decom-position of Ihram by shaving or trimming hair (Al-Sarhan, 2020). The researchers defined digital Hajj bags procedurally as innovative bags designed based on adaptive features, with an interactive design linked with smart technology and security features appro-priate for the target group.

Review of Literature

According to a review of previous literature related to Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, the research acquires its importance from the scarcity of studies and research that dealt with the bags used in the Hajj season. Previous studies dealt with other topics, such as the study conducted by Al-Hasanis study on the forbidden womens clothing (2020), Al-Sarhans study on the production of womens clothing proposed for Hajj and Umrah with good performance (2020), and many other studies that dealt with Ihram clothing (for men or women). This is along with the study conducted by Balamash and Salem, (2020) in which they took multiple approaches, all of which were striving for the same goal related to fabric, whether in Ihram or rugs or in masks or scarves. Therefore, the two researchers decided to study this problem to develop a scientific conception of the bags intended for use during the Hajj and Umrah rituals. There is no doubt that these desired results acquire great importance at present in light of the Kingdoms Vision 2030. As far as the two resear-chers know, none of the previous studies dealt with the pilgrims bags. The two researchers framed the current study with the framework of the Ergonomics Theory, which is the theoretical and basic understanding of human behavior and applying this understanding to design, that is, the practice of understanding people and their characteristics (human factors) about design. Ergonomics Theory is considered a suitable entry point for this study. Procedurally, the researchers define ergonomics as the science that applies design data and theories related to human features to the design of tools, machines, systems, and products made for safer and more comfortable functional and aesth-etic use. From a review of the previous fields, the two researchers believe that physical ergonomics is the most appropriate field related to the subject of the study, as it supports the study of the pilgrim by under-standing the physical characteristics, capabilities, fun-ctions, and tasks to achieve compatibility between the proposed Hajj smart bags and their places of wearing. 

There are several factors a designer takes into con-sideration in terms of human kinetic performance. Most technologies needed to alleviate these health concerns related to the carriage of bags have already been invented and only need to be implemented. The general ergonomic principle here is to avoid over-exerting the muscles. For instance, the Daffin et al. (2020) study found that backpack users must consider not only the overall weight of their pack but also the arrangement of specific things within the pockets. They are placing heavy objects closest to the backpack carriers center (Faravarde and Anboohi, 2023).

Safety

Since ergonomics aims to improve the link between humans, the product, and the environment, it becomes necessary to study everything that affects the effici-ency and safety of performance between humans and the product (Ibrahim & Al-Saud, 2021). Therefore, the designer must avoid possible harm to the human body or others from using the product, so he/she should avoid shapes with pointed ends and serrated edges so as not to cause injury to the users body; the bag must also be free from any stinging or roughness when rub-bing so as not to give a feeling of discomfort (Harby, 2020). The safety factor is often achieved in smart bags, as in the study of Ali et al. (2021), they designed a bag with the latest modern technology that is equip-ped with a camera connected to the bag to take a shot of the attacker and send a message via GSM network to the victims family. Kumar et al. (2020) used the electromagnetic zipper from the fingerprint sensor that allows only the authorized user to open the bag with the help of electromagnets placed on each of the com-pressed slides. The bag designed by Jadhav et al. (2020) features an anti-theft design that provides safety for the bag contents placed for security purposes and the capability of tracking the location of the bag, which will be useful in case it is stolen or lost. This is consistent with the study conducted by Jokić et al. (2019), which presented a USB smart digital wallet made for cryptocurrency. This wallet provides safety. The choice to secure it with a PIN code and make a backup copy of the information is also available. It also has a small screen on the front side to manage it easily. Many functions are also available, such as cryptocurrency exchange and money transfer from one account to another. The research conducted by Abda-lrdha and Mohammmed, (2020) also complies with the current study in its main purpose: designing and implementing an anti-theft smart bag. Smart bag appli-cation simulation is an essential platform for the next generation of assistive devices. It provides a low-cost, reliable, portable, and low-energy solution to protect peoples property with a short response time. This includes a method for global positioning to determine a bags location using GSM and GPS modules, which link the bags location to a nearby location.

Wearable technology

Wearable technology creates a new kind of self-identity that involves functional and aesthetic elements and self-expression. For the product to have a wear-able technology advantage, it must transmit informa-tion from smart sensors to the smartphone by connec-ting it via Bluetooth or a wireless network (Erkilic & Yalcin, 2020). Designers are looking for an oppor-tunity to integrate computers and sensors with the human body to facilitate communication between humans and the computer components worn, as they are integrated into clothes, shoes, jewelry, and bags (Ali, 2021). "Wearable devices" are an example of the importance of technology for a renewed focus on physicality as an Abdalrdha & Mohammmed, (2020) bag. Advances in smart clothing have been insignifi-cant so far due to many factors, such as the imperme-able components, the high cost of manufacturing such clothing, and the inability to wash it. Besides, some of them are uncomfortable to wear as they are based on electronic textiles (i.e., textiles with electrical conduc-tivity) (Joler et al., 2019). As such, it is considered impractical for everyday wear, which forces us to study the combination of modern optical and technical characteristics. Smart clothing has multiple benefits that meet the different clothing needs of modern designers (e.g., safety and protection). The same was explained by Chauhan and Nigam, (2021) in their study, which developed a smart bag that uses an RFID sensor and an HX711 sensor for load cells. Items can be identified using an RFID tag, then several items will be stored in the bags memory, and the items will be matched according to the schedule set. The communication circuit consists of the NodeMCU and RFID receiver, where alerts are passed when items are placed inside the bag; then, the RFID receiver reads the RFID tag and sends the data of items to the NodeMCU to compare it to the schedule list. If any item is missing, NodeMCU will alert the user.  Tech-nology can improve the speed of designing the elements of products offered to Pilgrims undertaking Hajj and Umrah, especially with the numbers targeted to achieve Vision 2030 to reach (5) million Hajj pilgrims and (30) million pilgrims performing Umrah by the year (1452 AH), provided that the highest standards of security and safety are observed. The study by Lee, (2020) entitled "smart-fashion Product" outlined attempts to bring fashion and technology together to provide digital benefits to users. This study aimed to explore the optimal way to develop smart fashion patterns that provide multiple user-oriented functions to increase the potential features of fashion. Market Analytics forecasts steady growth in this segment of the smart design market at an annual rate of 12%, up to 25%, and up to the year 2222 (Jolar et al., 2019). Wearable technology has become one of the important applications rapidly developing in the global market and provides innovative products in line with advancements in information and communication technology (Erkilic and Yalcin, 2020). Research areas of flexible and wearable electronics are now covered from applied physics, chemistry, mechanical engine-ering, materials science, biomedicine, and apparel technology. Researchers and the public are now paying increasing attention to flexible electronic wear (Wang & Wang, 2020). Recent reports indicate that the global wearable technology market will exceed 62.82 billion US dollars by 2025 (Dierk, 2020). The development of digital and mobile technologies has changed many aspects of our lives, and these techno-logical advances have led to the emergence of wear-able technologies that lay the foundation for the next stage of the digital revolution, where technology is not only usable but also wearable (Erkilic & Yalcin, 2020). It paves the way for the introduction of smart clothes that perform their functions according to the needs and requirements of the body so that it adapts to its surroundings. The starting point of wearable tech-nology goes back to the 13th century when the first wearable computer, a shoe device, was created in 1961 (Erkilic & Yalcin, 2020; Hossain et al., 2023).

Designing bags

The current study attempts to provide a clothing com-modity for the category of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims that is compatible with the appropriate functionality of this ritual and opens the door to research in the field of ergonomic bag design. Therefore, we have to study the set of modern visual and technical characteristics of shape, color, and interactive effects, which can be used in a new way that depends on innovative thought and breaking out of the ordinary in order to achieve crea-tive thought and thus capture the interest of the target audience (Jalil et al., 2019). As has been inferred from the inductive review of the previous literature, there has been some research that has discussed smart bags, which has led to the emergence of some products on the market, such as the bag in Yang et al. (2021) study that comes with trackers and bags that have a safety button. There is a lack of solutions that can address all these issues and include some smart features that can provide smart analytics and services to the user, along with the bags that track their owner using human detection technology using ultrasound sensors. Building the Study Tools. The two researchers pre-pared two questionnaires, each containing a cover with an introduction to pave the questionnaires content. It included welcoming the target group, introducing the two researchers and the studys title, clarifying its most important objectives, and determining what is required of the arbitrators. It also contained the primary data of the intended group. In order to verify the validity of the questionnaires, they were presented in their initial form to a group of 10 arbitrators from the faculty members of the Department of the Fashion Design, College of Designs and Arts, University of Jeddah, and the Department of Fashion and Textiles, College of Art and Design, King Abdul Aziz University. 

This was done to get to know the views of arbitrators on the research tool, the extent to which it achieved the goal for which it was set, and the availability of the following items in the tool (phrasing, clarity of the phrase, sequence, and organization, number of phrases and inclusion of the questionnaire for the objectives of the research). Thus, the search tool became ready for application in its final form. Cronbachs alpha coeffi-cient also verified stability.

The first tool: a questionnaire to evaluate the pro-posed smart bag designs (for specialists)

It is a questionnaire for specialists to evaluate the pro-posed smart bag designs. The questionnaire included four axes, namely (the axis of achieving aesthetic values, achieving functional values, the axis of safety, and the axis of ease of use). The first axis contained 14 phrases; the second axis contained 14 phrases; the third axis contained 6 phrases; and the fourth axis contained 8 phrases. The questionnaire included a triple assessment scale for the answer (agree, agree to some extent, and disagree).

The Second Tool: A Questionnaire to Evaluate the Proposed Smart Bags (for Pilgrims Performing Hajj and Umrah)

It is a questionnaire for the research sample of pilg-rims performing Hajj and Umrah that aims to evaluate the proposed smart bags, and it included a triple assessment scale for the answer, which is (agree, agree to some extent, and disagree).

Preparing the proposed designs of smart bags

The two researchers prepared the proposed designs as a result of what was studied in the previous literature related to the field of research and from the theoretical framework that dealt with all the variables and aspects of the research. Moreover, according to the studies conducted by (Hassan, 2019; Fatah et al., 2020), the procedural stages of designing the bags include the following: defining the problem, studying the liter-ature, gathering information and ideas from the source of inspiration, preparing an inspiration board, prepa-ring sketches, then preparing illustration designs and preparing a prototype for the sample. The two resear-chers prepared 6 smart bag designs due to what was studied in the previous chapters. The following is a detailed presentation of those designs and their analysis, in terms of a description of the design and its idea, with a presentation of the formal composition (design shape) and techniques of connecting parts, preparing the flat design, and then preparing the original pattern of the design in preparation for the 3D design of the bag:

Specifications of the first proposed bag

Color Grey Model Chest bag

Dimensions ‎31.2 x 24.6 x 5.8 cm Closure method Zipper

Design lines: The body is simple (reduction theory). It stabilizes the bags overall composition, creating visual comfort and symmetry. The design is lightweight and wraps well around the users body with a tight closure.

Technologies provided:

RFID - USB port

Specifications of the second proposed bag

Color Blue Model Bum bag

Dimensions ‎4.6 x 30.8 x 25 cm Closure method Zipper and Velcro

Design lines

The shape is regular and coherent while maintaining the proportions between the parts. The color of the supplements was standardized (black) to maintain harmony with the design style.

Technologies provided:

RFID- USB port

Specifications of the third proposed bag

Color Blue, grey, and black Model Backpack

Dimensions ‎ 45.6 x 32.6 x 8.6 cm Closure method Zipper

Design lines

The body is balanced and harmonious with an oval shape, with curved corners, using color diversity to eliminate the empty space, and with a few lines to create a formal diversity.

Technologies provided

GPS – RFID- USB port

Specifications of the fourth proposed bag

Color Green Model Backpack – Handbag

Dimensions ‎36.4 x 27 x 1.6 cm Closure method Zipper

Design lines

am making full use of the space of the two facades. The shape is wide cylindrical, with straight and curved perpendicular lines and visible seams to eliminate free space.

Technologies provided:

USB port- RFID

Specifications of the fifth proposed bag

Color Pale black Model Bum bag

Dimensions ‎28.7 x 17.8 x 4.8 cm Closure method Zipper

Design lines

The body has straight and regular lines, and the proportions have been considered in the distribution of the front pockets to get rid of the space. The body is static with a slight chromatic contrast.

Technologies provided:

RFID - USB

Specifications of the sixth proposed bag

Color Paige and grey Model Chest bag

Dimensions ‎31 x 19.9 x 3.7 cm Closure method Zipper

Design lines

The general composition of the front facade is the center of attention. There is a formal variety due to the varying sizes of the external pockets. At the same time, the back facade is devoid of any lines except for a horizontal line on the hidden pocket.

Technologies provided:

RFID - USB

There are many ways to classify smart designs based on their multiple fields and their use. The study com-pleted by Shambour and Kha, (2021) touched on many of the technologies used to serve pilgrims during the seasons of Hajj and Umrah. These various systems included GPS, ground tracking systems, RFID/NFC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, image-based scene analysis, and barcode systems to meet the needs of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. Technological progress and modern techno-logies in the digital environment were not limited to exchanging information and research but rather plan-ning to do so. Thus it has emerged as one of the most significant means of design, and due to its speed and modern techniques, it has been used in many design programs in general, particularly fashion (Ahmed, 2021). Given the importance of applying technologies and adapting them to cater to the needs of pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah, it is essential to list the techniques and the applications associated with them that the two researchers used in designing the bags in the following form:

Implementation of the proposed smart bag

After the two researchers developed the primary con-ceptualization of the design that fits the ergonomic requirements and underpins the initial steps of design-ing the smart bag, considering this, the two researchers implemented the bag that was highly praised by the research sample, according to the outcomes of the statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Results of the first hypothesis

The first hypothesis states, "Statistically significant variances exist among the six proposed smart bag designs concerning safety, as indicated by the specia-lists assessments." Moreover, to verify this hypo-thesis, the analysis of variance was calculated for the average scores of the six proposed designs for smart bags in safety, according to the assessments of specia-lists, as illustrated in the following tables:

From the Table 2, the value of (F) was (33,538), which represents a statistically significant value at the level of (0.01), signifying variations among the six suggested designs for smart bags in terms of safety, as per the evaluations of specialists, and to determine the direction of the significance.

Table 2: Anova test of the six proposed smart bag designs according to the specialists.

2

Significant (F) Degrees of freedom MS Sum of squares Safety

(0.01) 33.538 5 698،160 3490،798 Within

  60 20،817 1249،026 Between

65 4739،824 Total

The LSD test for multiple comparisons was applied as shown in the below Fig. 4. From Fig. 4, it is clear that there are statistically noteworthy variances between the six proposed designs for smart bags in safety; according to the assessments of specialists at a level of significance of 0.01, we observe that the “first” design proved to be the most effective in achieving safety, followed by the “fifth” design, then the "sixth" design, then the "fourth" design, then the "second" design, and finally the "third" design. There are also differences at the significance level of 0.05 between the "first" design and the "fifth" design in favor of the "first" design.

There are differences at a level of significance of 0.05 between the "second" design and the "third" design in favor of the "second" design. There are also differ-ences at a level of significance of 0.05 between design "5" and "sixth" design in favor of design "fifth." No distinctions were found between the "second" and "fourth" designs. To verify the fifth hypothesis, this study tried to highlight all the problems and issues that may face those who are interested in ergonomics in terms of providing human convenience and comfort, in addition to studying the methods that achieve safety for him, as mentioned by Muhammad & Ahmed, (2020). What supports the importance of the level of safety achieved by the proposed bag during use is the freedom to move around with identification papers during the Hajj and Umrah rituals using the GPS feature, as mentioned in the study done by Karmakar and Tapan, (2020) which aimed to design a smart bag that provides safety for women, where the smart case consists of a GSM module, sound sensor, emergency switch, Arduino board, and different motors. More-over, the study conducted by George and Saha, (2021) used the antenna (microstrip patch) and the radio frequency transmission system in the smart bag to send a message to the customers phone through cellular communication, which helps the user locate the bag when it is lost or stolen. Moreover, the study of Shukla et al. (2021) presented the concept of a smart bag package to protect and monitor the bag while on the move. The present study differs from prior literature regarding the designs target audience, specifically focusing on (pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah). In the same framework, it is clear from the proposed design of bags represented in the materials used and functional accessories. This result is con-sistent with many studies where the use of high-quality materials achieves a satisfactory level of safety, such as raw materials treated against wetness and dirt and hidden locking tools that protect against theft, as mentioned in the studies done by (Wang & Wang, 2020; Darwish, 2021; Harby, 2020). Moreover, the studies by (Ibrahim and Abdel-Khaleq, 2021; Samaan et al. 2019) employed various materials and tech-niques to produce bags, considering their size, shape, and the occasion they are worn. In contrast Joler et al. (2019) find in their study that the achievements in smart clothing have been insignificant so far due to many factors: the prohibitive cost of manufacturing such clothes and the inability to wash them. Besides, some are uncomfortable to wear because they are based on electronic textiles. As such, it is considered impractical or safe for daily wear, and this result differs from the current study because the techniques used in it are removable.

The pilgrimage itinerary follows several steps, spread over many days; this causes certain challenges due to the large crowds participating in all activities collec-tively simultaneously. Therefore, several studies have resulted in the importance of further evaluation of the functionality, safety, or usability of the products, such as the Tsaklis study, (2020) which confirms that among the most important basic parameters that affect the final consumer judgment on the product come "aesthetics, safety, and price." This is consistent with the current study in that "ergonomic design" means creating products suitable for safe use in proportion to the physical and mental characteristics of the user. To ensure the safety of the bags wearer, the study by Khalil and Fadel, (2019) recommends changing the wearing side of the bag from one side to the other to reduce shoulder and neck pains. Choosing the appro-priate bag shape to distribute the load is also prefer-able, as it maintains the spines integrity. The study recommended filling the bags with the necessary needs only because filling them increases their weight, which affects the health of the body. The researchers attribute the first designs highest safety rating to the method of carrying the bag. The study conducted by Kim et al. (2021) confirmed that carrying a heavy bag to one side may lead to abnormal stress on the body and problems in the musculoskeletal system. It was confirmed by Chen et al. (2021) that carrying the bag cross-body is among the frequently used methods. Moreover, the study of Sturdy et al. (2021) confirmed that the abdominal muscles enjoyed greater activity during loading, standing, and walking. This result is consistent with the results of the study by Ali et al. (2021), the study by Dierk, (2020) and the study by Ibrahim & Al-Saud, (2021) which argued for the importance of the ergonomics of design and its influence on safety. The study examined the situation in the fashion and textile sector today, which makes it necessary to keep pace with the rapid developments in the field of pilgrim services to invest in the develop-ment and development of this sector and to update the knowledge frameworks and the structural aspects on which it is based.

In this context, the study of Abdalrdha et al. (2020) entitled (Smart Anti-Theft Bag) to Protect Users from Theft emphasized that emulation of the smart bag application is an essential platform for the next gene-ration of assistive devices to help people keep docu-ments safely inside and outside, which leads to good results in detecting attempts to open the bag through the first (20) seconds, in order to detect the identity of the thief. The system works based on the Raspberry (Pi3) board by implementing the technology that determines the speed of approaching obstacles. This was confirmed by a study by (Jokić et al., 2019; Jadhav et al., 2020).

The Results of the Second Hypothesis

The second hypothesis states, "There are statistically noteworthy variances among the six proposed smart bag designs based on the feedback from Hajj and Umrah pilgrims." To verify this hypothesis, the ana-lysis of variance was calculated for the average scores of the six proposed designs for smart bags, according to the feedback of pilgrims, as illustrated in the following tables:

significant (F) Degrees of freedom MS Sum of squares Source

(0.01) 53.960 5 13803.514 69017.568 Within

  1794 255.812 458926.605 Between

1799 527944.173 Total

It is clear from the Table 3 that the value of (D) was (53.960), which is a statistically significant value at the level of (0.01), signifying distinctions among the six proposed designs of smart bags, according to feed-back from pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah. To identify the direction of significance, the LSD test for multiple comparisons was applied, as illustrated in the Fig. 5. 

From the Fig. 5, there are statistically noteworthy vari-ations among the six proposed designs for smart bags, according to feedback from pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah at a significance level of 0.01. We find that the "first" design was the best design, followed by the "third" design, then the "sixth" design, then the "fourth" design, then the "second" design, and finally the "fifth" design. There are also differences at a significance level of 0.05 between the "third" design and the "sixth" design in favor of the "third" design. There are no distinctions between the "second" and "fifth" designs. From the above, the statistical results indicate the validity of the second hypothesis due to the use of technology in the offered designs for Hajj bags, which provide good solutions to many problems and contribute to overcoming many difficulties. The two researchers attribute that the 1st design obtained the highest ergonomic evaluation, according to the opinions of the research sample of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, of the availability of safety causes represen-ted in the freedom to roam with their identification papers throughout the diverse rituals, and the avail-ability of the location tracking feature when wearing the bag. Moreover, that was confirmed by the study of Shambour & Khan, (2021) as pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah have access to the electronic services provided by many governmental and private sectors within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The first and third designs conformed to the personal taste of the study sample. The bags were also in line with modern technology. Besides, the sample confirmed the suit-ability of the bag design with the local environmental and climatic factors. This result aligns with the find-ings of the study of Daoud, (2021) where the designer of bags for Hajj and Umrah must apply ergonomic considerations so that the pilgrims perform the tasks required during the Hajj and Umrah efficiently with satisfaction and with the least effort.

Summary of results

From the conducted study and analysis, the key findings can be summarized as follows:

The results revealed that there are differences between the six proposed designs for the smart bags in safety, according to the assessments of specialists, as the value of (D) was (33.538), which is a statistically significant value at the level of (0.01). So, we find that the "first" design was the most effective in ensuring safety. Thus, the fifth hypothesis is true. The results revealed statistically significant differences between the six proposed designs for the smart bags at a significance level of (0.01). So, we find that the "first" design received the most positive feedback from Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, affirming the validity of the eighth hypothesis.

Answers to the questions of the study

To answer the first question: "What are the statistically significant differences between the patterns of smart bags designed to achieve safety, according to the ass-essments of specialists?" The two researchers presen-ted the six proposed smart bag designs to a group of fashion and textile design specialists through the study tool (the questionnaire); then, the questionnaire data was statistically processed and graphically tabulated and represented. To answer the second question: "What are the statistically significant differences bet-ween the patterns of smart bags designed to achieve safety, according to the feedback of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims?" The designs of the six proposed smart bag designs were presented through the study tool (the questionnaire) to a group of (301) Hajj and Umrah pilgrims in the Hajj season of the year (1442 AH). The questionnaire data was collected and statistically pro-cessed and then graphically tabulated and represented.

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The study reached several scientific conclusions in the light of the discussion of the results, which are:

This study constitutes a first step in designing bags for Hajj and Umrah, as it highlighted the ergonomic mea-sures that increase the effectiveness of performance and design. Considering the safety aspect during designing for visitors to the Holy Mosque improves the psychological state of the pilgrim and makes him feel reassured. The study sample highly accepted the proposed design of bags, which indicates that the ergonomic considerations considered when designing the proposed patterns are consistent with the purpose of the design. In light of the findings of the research, the two researchers included in this framework several recommendations, which they direct to all designers and decision-makers in colleges and institutes and service providers in Hajj and Umrah, as follows:

Using smart technologies to facilitate services provi-ded to pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah to service providers from the governmental, private, and charit-able sectors. I am conducting a quasi-experimental study to test the thermal comfort of the bag imple-mented on pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah. Pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah must know the specifications when choosing bags while performing the various rituals. It is developing a detailed and comprehensive reference that gathers design criteria for bags regarding ergonomic considerations.

Proposals of the Study

The following is an explanation of future research trends that the two researchers proposed to comple-ment the aspects of ergonomic design and intelligent design:

Effectiveness of engaging smart IOT devices to assist decision-makers responsible for Hajj and Umrah pro-cedures. Designing functional bags for pilgrims with special needs performing Hajj and Umrah. Urging to repeat the scientific experiment of the ergo-nomic design of smart bags on other samples, such as chil-dren with special needs or KG students.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

This study and paper would not have been possible without the invaluable contributions and support of my colleague, Prof. Dr. Nermeen Abdel Basset Mohamed. Her profound knowledge and meticulous attention were crucial in steering this research in the right direction, forever holding the grateful and gratitude.

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

The authors assert that no apparent financial conflicts of interest or the personal relationships could have influenced the work described in this research.

Article References:

  1. Abdalrdha, Z. K., Ridha, A. K., and Moham-mmed, A. Q. (2020). Smart Anti-Theft Bag for Businessmen Depending on the Raspberry-Pi3 Environment Copyright © 2020, IEEE.
  2. Ahmed, H. H.  (2021). Digital environment app-lications (Paint 3D) as a source for fashion design inspired by the Egyptian heritage. J. of Architecture, Arts, and Humanities, 6(29), 308-334.
  3. Ali, M. T., Islam, N. S., and Kaicher, M. H. (2021). We are designing A Handbag for Womens Safety. In 2021, the 2nd International Conference on Robotics, Electrical and Signal Processing Techniques (ICREST) (pp. 274-277). IEEE.
  4. Ali, A. P., and Amani Salah. (2019). A proposed conception to include the dimensions of ergono-mics in the content of the industrial safety and occupational health curriculum in industrial technical education. J. of the College of Edu-cation, 16 (P. 16. P. 85. C. 1 (April 2019)), 229-267.
  5. Balamash, F.A. and Salem, S.S. (2020). Produ-cing sustainable designs that fulfill the functional requirements of womens forbidden clothing. Inter Design Magazine, 10, p. 3, p. 203-210.
  6. Chauhan, A. S., & Nigam, D. (2021). Smart Bag based on RFID and the Internet of Things. AIJR Proceedings, 102-105. ‏
  7. Daoud, M. (2021). Robot ergonomics: Giving Behavioral Objects a Dynamic Presence, Inter Design J., 11(5).
  8. Darwish, B. (2021). Producing innovative de-signs of womens bags by combining crochet and Sinai embroidery to empower breadwinners and integrate them into the labor market. J. of Res-earch in Specific Education, 7(33).
  9. Dierk, C. (2020). Heirloom Wearables: A Hybrid Approach to the Design of Embodied Wearable Technologies. University of California, Berkeley.
  10. Erkiliç, C. E., & Yalcin, A. (2020). Evaluation of the wearable technology market within the scope of digital health technologies. Gazi J. of Econo-mics and Business, 6(3). 
  11. https://doi.org/10.30855/gjeb.2020.6.3.006 
  12. Faravarde H, and Anboohi SZ. (2023). A supe-rior emotional UX in product design by struc-tural colours, Br. J. Arts Humanit., 5(1), 33-42. https://doi.org/10.34104/bjah.023033042 
  13. Fatah, M. F., Oftariano, M. A., and Haryanto, E. S. (2020). A Combination Design of Bags, Chairs, Chargers, and Tables Made with Hazar-dous Waste Raw Materials in Tackling Environ-mental Pollution in the 4.0 Revolution Era. ‏
  14. Harby, S. (2020). Ergonomic considerations for a working womans handbag and its impact on job performance. Inter Design J., 10(4), 393-413
  15. Al-Harbi, M. (2021). The experience of Al-Madinah Al-Munawara Research and Studies, the Custodian of the holy mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research, umm al-Qura Univer-sity.
  16. Al-Hassani, O. (2020). Designing a costume for women to perform Hajj and Umrah. Inter J. of Humanities and Social Sciences, 13, 236-259.
  17. Hasan, S. S. M. (2019). A comparative study on the role of fashion drawings in designing womens clothing using CAD technology. Inter Design J., 9(4), 375-390.
  18. Hossain MA, Ali MR, and Haque MA. (2023). Hermetic bag: a farmers friendly paddy storage technology in Bangladesh, Int. J. Mat. Math. Sci., 5(6), 52-59. 
  19. https://doi.org/10.34104/ijmms.023.052059  
  20. Ibrahim, R. & Abdel Khaleq, A. May. (2021). Employing some hand embroidery techniques to produce handbags with a national character, J. of Architecture, Arts and Humanities, 6(28).
  21. Ibrahim A., and Al-Saud I. A. (2021). The ergo-nomics of the medical mask design and its impact on comfort, use, and safety. J. of Rese-arch in Specific Education, 7(32), 1029-1100.
  22. Jadhav, S. P. and Patil, Jugalkishor, (2020). Smart Backpack, Inter Research J. of Engine-ering and Technology (IRJET), 07(05).
  23. Joler, M., Berkarić, A., and Klen, V. (2019). Testing an Arduino-Based Approach for Full-Duplex Voice Communication and Body-Para-meter Sensing Electronics for Use with Smart Clothing. Inter J. of Antennas and Propagation, 2019. Computers, Networks, Systems, and Indu-strial Engineering (pp. 269-270). IEEE. ‏
  24. https://doi.org/10.1155/2019/8598912 
  25. Jokić, S., Cvetković, A. S. and Spalević, P., (2019). Comparative analysis of cryptocurrency wallets vs traditional wallets. Ekonomika. 65. 
  26. https://doi.org/10.5937/ekonomika1903065J 
  27. Karmakar, S. & Tapan, K. R. (2020) Smart Bag for Women Safety. Conference Proceedings: 4th Inter Conference on Electronics, Materials Engi-neering & Nanotechnology (IEMENTech). IEEE pp. 1-4, 
  28. https://doi.org/10.1109/IEMENTech51367.2020.9270046 
  29. Khalil, S., and Fadel, B. (2019). The effect of the womens bag on womens health, Fashion and Jewelry Conference, Skill, Technology, Creati-vity, College of Education for Girls, Department of Home Economics, University of Baghdad.
  30. Kim, G. M., Lee, S. H., & Yu, J. H. (2021). The Comparison Between Before and After Cross Bag Walking Intervention on Gait Parameter and Center of Pressure. Annals of the Romanian Society for Cell Biology, 911-917. ‏
  31. Kumar, M. G., Suma, M., and Ajitha, D. (2020). Smart Bag Using Electromagnet Zipper. In Advances in Computational and Bioengineering: Proceeding of the International Conference on Computational and BioEngineering, 2019, 2(16), p. 13. Springer Nature. ‏
  32. Lee, H. (2020). A study on the development of a user-focused multi-functional convergence-smart -fashion product. Heliyon. e03130. 
  33. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.E03130 
  34. Malibari, Weddings, (2021) Guests of the Most Merciful in the King Abdullah University Libr-ary, the Honor of Knowledge and the Reward of Service, The Twentieth Scientific Forum for Hajj and Umrah Research and Visitation for the year 1442, the Custodian of the two holy mosques institute for hajj and umrah research, umm al-Qura university.
  35. Al-Matrafi, H. (2021). Towards a Virtual Reality Model to Improve the Hajj Experience as an Application to the Holy Sites, Twentieth Scien-tific Forum for Hajj and Umrah Research and Visitation for the year 1442, the Custodian of the two holy mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah research, umm al-Qura university.
  36. Muneeza, A., & Mustapha, Z. (2021). COVID-19: It impacts Hajj and Umrah and a future direction - J. of Islamic Accounting and Business Research. ‏
  37. Procedures for domestic pilgrims, (2021). The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on the website. 
  38. Al-Sarhan, T. (2020). Producing womens clo-thing proposed for Hajj and Umrah that has the quality of functionality and aesthetics. Inter J. of the Humanities and Social Sciences, 14, 380-411 
  39. https://doi.org/10.33193/IJoHSS.14.2020.124 
  40. Semaan, J. A., Muhammad, O. India. (2020). The development of decorative metallic hand-bags is based on modern artistic trends. J. of Architecture, Arts and Humanities, 5(19), 207-221.
  41. Shambour, M. K., & Gutub, A. (2021). Progress of IoT Research Technologies and Applications Serving Hajj and Umrah. Arabian J.  for Science and Engineering, 1-21.
  42. Shukla, R., Jadhav, R., and Veerya, M. (2021). Smart Bag Pack IRJET Journal. Inter Research J. of Engineering and Technology (IRJET), 08, p. 05.
  43. Sharif, K. (2021). The role of volunteers and stakeholders in providing services to pilgrims at mass transit stations in the Grand Mosque, the 20th Scientific Forum for Hajj and Umrah Research and Visitation for the year 1442, the Custodian of the two holy mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah research, Umm Al-Qura Uni-versity.
  44. Tsaklis, P. V. (2020). Our Neuroaesthetic App-roach to Ergonomics, Design, and Product Selec-tion. IETI Transactions on Ergonomics and Safety, 4(2), 26-28.
  45. Varshney, V., Jha, P., & Gupta, D. (2017). Solar-powered smart bag. Proceeding of the 12th INDIA Com.‏
  46. "What is Safety and Security?" 
  47. www.coursera.org  accessed 12-6-2018. Edited.
  48. Wang, Y.-H., & Pan, Y.-H. (2021). Research on the Practical Design Process of Lady Bags through Big Data. J. of the Korea Convergence Society, 12(4), 191-199. 
  49. https://doi.org/10.15207/JKCS.2021.12.4.191 

Article Info:

Academic Editor

Dr. Sonjoy Bishwas, Executive, Universe Publishing Group (UniversePG), California, USA.

Received

September 2, 2024

Accepted

November 17, 2024

Published

November 27, 2024

Article DOI: 10.34104/bjah.024049063

Coresponding author

Nermeen Abdel Basset Mohamed*
Faculty of Human Sciences and Design, Dept. of Fashion & Textiles, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Cite this article

 Mohamed NAB., and Al-Shamrani FA. (2024). A design of the digital bag for Pilgrims safety, Br. J. Arts Humanit., 6(1), 49-63. https://doi.org/10.34104/bjah.024049063 

Views
57
Download
80
Citations
Badge Img
Share