Mastering a robot workforce: review of single human multiple robots systems and their impact on occupational safety and health and system performance.

Journal: Ergonomics
Published Date:

Abstract

As highly autonomous mobile robots increasingly integrate into workplaces, they still require human oversight despite advances in artificial intelligence (AI). single human multiple robot (SHMR) systems enable one operator to monitor and control multiple robots simultaneously through a user interface, optimising resources and reducing human exposure to hazardous environments. While these systems offer advantages in effectiveness, efficiency and flexibility, they present challenges in managing attention and cognitive load. This study aims to systematically expand the understanding of SHMR system characteristics by addressing four key aspects: (1) robot composition, (2) roles of humans and robots, (3) interface design and (4) their impact on performance outcomes. Through an explorative search, 658 records were identified, with 44 studies selected for detailed analysis. The findings are consolidated into a practical checklist for designing and evaluating SHMR systems to facilitate efficient human-robot interaction (HRI).

Authors

  • Estefany Rey-Becerra
    Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA), Unit Human Factors, Ergonomics, Dortmund, Germany.
  • Sascha Wischniewski
    Federal Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Dortmund, Germany.

Keywords

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