Abstract
(1) Background: Cognitive aspects and complexity in modern manual mixed model assembly are increasing. To reduce mental workload (MWL), informational assistance systems are introduced. The influence of complexity and used assistance system on MWL should be investigated to further improve the implementation of such assistance systems. (2) Methods: Using a simulated close to real-life assembly task a 2 × 3 design was chosen, with two levels of assembly complexity (within subjects) and three different assistance systems (paper, Augmented Reality (AR)-glasses, tablet–between subjects). MWL was measured using either physiological response (electrocardiogram (ECG) and eye-tracking) or performance indicators. (3) Results: An influence of task complexity on MWL can be shown. Additionally, usability based differences between the used assistance systems become more evident with reference to the results of area of interest analysis. (4) Conclusions: Using a multi-modal measurement approach, it is possible to detect complexity-based differences in MWL. Additional research on validity and alignment is needed to further use these for (neuro-) ergonomic considerations and recommendations.
Highlights
IntroductionThe overall complexity of a specific assembly work process results from the sum of choices to be made over all steps across the variants in a limited time
The main aim of this study was to show the connection between the complexity of different manual assembly tasks and mental workload (MWL) under time pressure in a natural setting
It was intended to demonstrate that the usage of the same instructional material on different informational assistance systems will create equal mental workload
Summary
The overall complexity of a specific assembly work process results from the sum of choices to be made over all steps across the variants in a limited time. Operator choice complexity is defined as the mean uncertainty or randomness (of the product) in a series of different product variants that require changing choice processes and behavioral adaptations over a certain period of time, leading to higher mental workload [1]. It is the aim of the present study to show that higher operator choice complexity in concrete manual assembly tasks leads to increased mental workload. The relationship of different informational assistance systems on mental workload will be shown
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