Implementation of augmented reality (AR) devices in production floors is becoming increasingly popular for its creative potential in facilitating training and development. From a human factors perspective, there is thus a need to further examine the usability issues and design guidelines of these emerging augmented reality technologies especially with regard to various manufacturing industries. Such assessment efforts will serve to ensure that the fit between human and machine allows for user self-actualization and a safe and productive work environment. Despite the widespread interest in augmented reality, there is no clear set of principles yet established. Many usability models are based on traditional desktop-based computer applications which means unique augmented reality characters are overlooked including the physical ergonomics, expanded field of view, and device mobility features. Here, we review the fit of user-centered usability models to propose a set of criteria to serve as a guideline to implement augmented reality technologies efficiently in the production environment.
The effect of task switching on performance has been examined in many different fields and contexts. Sudden changes in task load can significantly impair performance, which can have detrimental consequences in dismounted military operations. As technology is advancing, robots are sought to take on the role of a teammate to the human soldier in the field. Robot-to-human communication modality may need to switch when mayhem occurs in military missions. Modality switching has been associated with performance decrements, although these effects are largely unknown in military human-robot teaming situations. The present study examined the cost associated with switching task demand and robot-to-human communication modality type on performance in a simulated cordon-and-search mission. The results showed that switches in task load affected threat detection performance. Auditory reporting increased performance more than visual reporting in low-after-high task load epochs. Performance with auditory reports was also higher in high-after-low demand blocks than low-after-high. The effect of switching needs to be taken into account for high-stakes human-robot interactions.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.