Getting the most out of advanced manufacturing technology (AMT)-based systems. Part I: recognising and managing technology limitations

Abstract

In Part 1 of this two-part paper, we examined several technological issues pertaining to automated AMT systems. We concluded that human presence in such systems is essential to compensate technological limitations, and the anthropocentric approach to designing AMT systems is the most appropriate manner in which we can obtain the most out of AMT systems in terms of productivity, reliability, economy and flexibility. In Part II, we focus on the limitations of the human component of an anthropocentric AMT system (human-centred manufacturing system). Specifically, we discuss the following issues that limit the effectiveness of human contributions to an automated AMT system: 1) stress management, 2) training issues, 3) sources and causes of errors, 4) information processing limitations, and 5) interface design issues.