Quantification of cognitive ergonomic factors and task performance for the use of passive upper limb exoskeleton while performing overhead tasks.

Abstract

Exoskeleton has been proposed as a solution for musculoskeletal problems. Designed for physical attributes, it is crucial to determine the effect of its usage on cognitive aspects during task execution. This study aims to quantify cognitive ergonomic factors and task performance for the use of passive upper limb exoskeleton while performing overhead tasks. Ten male participants (mean age of 23.2 years (SD= 0.6)) took part in single and dual-task experiments. Subjective ratings using NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) and Situation awareness rating technique (SART), physiological measure using Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and task performance (number of error) were measured. The dual-task setup reveals that there were strong positive correlations between the overall workload and number of errors percentage, which was statistically significant (r = 0.822, n = 10, p = 0.004). This finding is crucial as a reference for designers, developers, and policymakers in optimizing and sustaining task performance.