Cognitive Ergonomics Research Articles

A novel human-centered methodology for assessing manual-to-collaborative safe conversion of workstations

The Industry 5.0 paradigm places workers’ well-being and safety at the core of the production processes. Despite its objectives, the current industry still faces several challenges. Examples of these challenges include global market pressures for customized products, along with the significant occurrence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders and the ageing workforce. These challenges underscore the persistent need for human-centered solutions, allowing adaptations that align with humans’ physical and cognitive constraints. Collaborative robots offer a promising solution, with the potential to enhance workers’ well-being, while maintaining safety, productivity, and production process flexibility. This study introduces a novel methodology designed to assess the feasibility of converting manual tasks into collaborative ones. During the development of the methodology, a focus group approach was used, comprising 6 experts in the field of Ergonomics & Human Factors and Robotics. The proposed methodology is suitable for the identification of tasks appropriate for joint execution by humans and robots, thereby augmenting the effectiveness of the robotic solution. This methodology incorporates a set of indicators (physical and cognitive ergonomics, health and safety, and operational efficiency) and technical requirements. The results of the focus group allowed the improvement of the suggested methodology. For its testing, we applied across 13 manual workstations in 5 companies from different manufacturing sectors (civil construction, cutlery, furniture, and automotive fabric manufacturing). Results show that it is possible to comprehensively identify manual workstations/tasks with good and high potential to convert into collaborative systems. This methodology seems to constitute a relevant approach to support the conceptualization of collaborative workstations.

Advocating a rational use of self-confrontation micro-phenomenological interviews to improve performance in elite athletes.

Self-Confrontation Micro-Phenomenological Interviews (SCMPIs) aim to capture the fine-grained details of an athlete's experience, focusing on pre-reflective consciousness without resorting to post-hoc rationalizations. This specific type of self-confrontation interview was developed in the domain of work analysis in cognitive ergonomics. Despite its integration into numerous research studies in sport performance and training practices, the direct effects of the SCMPI on athletes remain underexplored. In this perspective article, we provide a brief overview of the theoretical foundations of SCMPI as well as a description of the paradox of the SCMPI situation. Throughout this paper, we highlight the unsolved questions around use of SCMPIs to improve athletes' performance by enhancing reflective thinking as well as pre-reflective awareness. Furthermore, we discuss the epistemological and practical considerations regarding the selection and use of activity traces in SCMPIs. The paper calls for further research to evaluate the SCMPI's impact on performance in elite athletes, emphasizing the need for a rational application of this method in both research and practical interventions.

Cognitive Ergonomics in Intelligent Systems: Screen Analysis and Design Proposal for Reducing Mental Load in the Design of User Interfaces of Autonomous Vehicles

Cognitive Ergonomics in Intelligent Systems: Screen Analysis and Design Proposal for Reducing Mental Load in the Design of User Interfaces of Autonomous Vehicles

Effect of human–machine interface infotainment systems and automated vehicles on driver distraction

AbstractDriver distraction is intricately linked to human behavior and cognitive ergonomics, as it explores how human engagement with various stimuli influences attention and decision‐making processes while driving. The main purpose of this study is to comprehensively explore whether using Human–Machine Interface infotainment systems in automated vehicles can affect driver distraction. To this end, driver distraction was measured by driving performance features (speed, lane position, and reaction time), behavioral features (fixation time and pupil dilation), physiological features (changes in oxyhemoglobin), and subjective assessment (NASA‐TLX workload). Twenty‐one participants equipped with an eye tracker and functional near‐infrared spectroscopy drove a driving simulator in the current investigation. The results revealed that interacting with the infotainment systems significantly affects the drivers' average speed (F2,40 = 13.60, p < .0001), reaction time (F2,40 = 4.74, p = .0142), fixation time (F2,40 = 88.61, p < .0001), pupil dilation (F2,28 = 3.63, p = .0356), and workload (F2,40 = 14.40, p < .0001). Moreover, driving mode significantly affects drivers' speed deviation (F2,40 = 6.12, p = .0048), standard deviation of lane position (F2,40 = 10.57, p = .0002), fixation time (F2,40 = 36.71, p < .0001), and workload (F2,40 = 28.08, p < .0001). Drawing from the findings of this article and emphasizing human‐centric design principles, researchers and engineers can craft automotive technologies that are intuitive, effective, and safer. This is vital for mitigating driver distraction and guaranteeing the beneficial influence of automated vehicles on both road safety and the overall driving experience.

Cognitive evaluation based on regression and eye-tracking for layout on human–computer multi-interface

ABSTRACT The human–computer cooperation process guided by natural interaction, intelligent interaction, and human–computer integration is gradually becoming a new trend in human–computer interaction. Cooperative scenarios of human–computer interaction systems often contain multi-interface and multi-device results in edges often interrupt the cognitive ergonomics of interface layout. This research takes typical areas as an example to establish a stepwise regression model to predict reaction time at an arbitrary position on the left interface. It uses a foveal region to position the starting point of attention and a parafoveal region to calculate the radius of each objective area, and design 10 similar tasks to analyze eye-tracking indexes through physiological assessment. Unlike fixed thinking such as spatial proximity on multi-interfaces, this research summarises cognitive features of layout based on the positive and negative effects of edge impact through eye-tracking analysis. It analyzes cognition including input, process, and output in human–computer cooperation from human intelligence and artificial intelligence respectively, and visualises the mapping relationship between these indexes and specific stages of cognition. Besides, the quantitative evaluation of the regression equation and qualitative analysis of the eye-tracking indexes provide a reference for other interfaces around the front interface.

Workplace Well-Being in Industry 5.0: A Worker-Centered Systematic Review.

The paradigm of Industry 5.0 pushes the transition from the traditional to a novel, smart, digital, and connected industry, where well-being is key to enhance productivity, optimize man-machine interaction and guarantee workers' safety. This work aims to conduct a systematic review of current methodologies for monitoring and analyzing physical and cognitive ergonomics. Three research questions are addressed: (1) which technologies are used to assess the physical and cognitive well-being of workers in the workplace, (2) how the acquired data are processed, and (3) what purpose this well-being is evaluated for. This way, individual factors within the holistic assessment of worker well-being are highlighted, and information is provided synthetically. The analysis was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 statement guidelines. From the sixty-five articles collected, the most adopted (1) technological solutions, (2) parameters, and (3) data analysis and processing were identified. Wearable inertial measurement units and RGB-D cameras are the most prevalent devices used for physical monitoring; in the cognitive ergonomics, and cardiac activity is the most adopted physiological parameter. Furthermore, insights on practical issues and future developments are provided. Future research should focus on developing multi-modal systems that combine these aspects with particular emphasis on their practical application in real industrial settings.

Examining the Relationship Between Innovative Product Design, Cognitive Ergonomics, and the Effectiveness of Entity Design-system: Focusing on the Environment of Big Data-driven Interface

The evolution of design systems has undergone a transformative shift towards entity-based frameworks. These systems represent a paradigmatic departure from traditional design approaches by structuring design elements around modular, reusable components known as entities. This study examines the elements that affect entity-based design system effectiveness and its effects on computer-related sectors. The study examines how creative product design, cognitive ergonomics, and big data-driven interfaces affect system efficacy. The study also examines how information processing efficiency mediates and technology infrastructure moderates the relationship between design elements and system results. Data was collected from 254 Chinese design system specialists and practitioners using quantitative methods. Participants' design, technology, and system efficacy perceptions were assessed using a standardized questionnaire. AMOS was used for mediation and moderation analyses to evaluate study hypotheses and examine variable correlations. This study found strong correlations between design elements, technology capabilities, and entity-based design system efficacy. Innovative product design, cognitive ergonomics, and big data-driven interfaces had an impact on system results, both individually and together. Information processing efficiency was a key mediator, while technology infrastructure moderated system efficacy. This study adds to the literature by revealing the complex elements that affect entity-based design systems in computer-related sectors. The study improves our theoretical understanding of design systems by investigating the relationship between design factors, technology capabilities, and system results. It also offers practical advice for organizations looking to improve their design processes and user experiences.

Cognitive and behavioral markers for human detection error in AI-assisted bridge inspection

Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and drone technology into bridge inspections offers numerous advantages, including increased efficiency and enhanced safety. However, it is essential to recognize that this integration changes the cognitive ergonomics of the inspection task. Gaining a deeper understanding of how humans process information and behave when collaborating with drones and AI systems is necessary for designing and implementing effective AI-assisted inspection drones. To further understand human-drone-AI intricate dynamics, an experiment was conducted in which participants’ biometric and behavioral data were collected during a simulated drone-enabled bridge inspection under two conditions: with an 80% accurate AI assistance and with no AI assistance. Results indicate that cognitive and behavioral factors, including vigilance, cognitive processing intensity, gaze patterns, and visual scanning efficiency can influence inspectors' performance respectively in either condition. This highlights the importance of designing inspection protocols, drones and AI systems based on a comprehensive understanding of the cognitive processes required in each condition to prevent cognitive overload and minimize errors. We also remark on the visual scanning and gaze patterns associated with a higher chance of missing critical information in each condition, insights that inspectors can use to enhance their inspection performance.

An Applied Approach to Cognitive Ergonomics in Restaurant Design

Through theoretical frameworks and applications of cognitive ergonomics, this article illustrates, with practical examples, the role of designing restaurants from the perspective of cognitive ergonomics concerning the process of perception and sensory stimuli. The goal is intended to promote well-being and differentiation in a saturated and competitive market by optimizing the interaction between patrons and their environments with a focus on perceived comfort and quality. This paper examines the application of selected universal principles of design and environmental psychology that affect how people might respond to spatial qualities and designs in the dining experience. Central to the integration of these concepts is designing for well-being which increases patron satisfaction and supports positive mental and emotional effects.

Air and Land Transportation Development: A Mini Systematic Review of Ergonomics Contributions

Indonesia's transportation sector has experienced rapid growth. Research conducted in the field of ergonomics has resulted in a transportation mode development, that provides a comfortable and safe experience for passengers according to their basic needs. The research covers interior design, work environment, and workload in the transportation sector. However, there has yet to be a systematic review of the role and contribution of ergonomics in seeking ergonomic and human-centered transportation, as per the author's research. Therefore, this study examines ergonomics research (cognitive, physical, organizational) applied to Indonesia's innovation in air and land transportation over the past decade (2013-2022). A total of 23 articles were reviewed (6, 6, and 10 for air transportation, land and rail sectors, the land transportation sector other than trains, respectively). The results show that ergonomics impacts the development of ergonomic transportation in Indonesia. The potential for various studies is available in physical, cognitive, and organizational ergonomics.

Ergonomic inspection checklist of institutional digital repositories

Context – digital repositories are informational environments for managing and controlling the scientific and academic production of institutions and/or communities; Gap – however, they can present gaps such as navigation flaws, low usability and accessibility, limited searches, little disclosure of the environment and little or no use of customizable services; Purpose – from this context, an ergonomic evaluation of institutional digital repositories becomes necessary; Methodology – an integrative review of the literature was carried out to evaluate the state of the art of usability techniques applied to the ergonomics of institutional digital repositories and to support the methods applied in this work, the file of the included articles helped in the choice of the usability evaluation method, selection of a set of requirements for usability inspection in institutional digital repositories; Final considerations: the integrative literature review strategy in the databases used and used descriptors showed that the tests applied improve the usability of digital repositories. During this study, it was observed the lack of a checklist focused on ergonomic specifications and recommendations to evaluate the ergonomics and usability of institutional digital repositories. To fill this gap, an ergonomic inspection checklist was proposed for these digital repositories. Keywords: ergonomics. cognitive ergonomics. mental workload. Usability.

Conceptual aspects of cognitive ergonomics and job design

The study of cognitive ergonomics and correct job design is a contemporary topic. This article defines and presents the main issues that ensure effective management of cognitive ergonomics and job design.

Determining Factors Influencing Filipinos’ Behavioral Protection against COVID: Integrating Extended Protection Motivation Theory, Theory of Planned Behavior, and Ergonomic Appraisal

This study examined the perceived protective behavior of Filipinos towards COVID-19. It utilized the extended protection motivation theory (PMT) and theory of planned behavior (TPB) models with the integration of ergonomic appraisal, applying partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to determine the factors affecting the protective behavior of Filipinos against COVID-19. A questionnaire was developed and distributed to 3000 Filipino citizens to measure the factors and their relationships. Results showed that understanding COVID-19 significantly influences the Filipinos’ perceived virus severity and vulnerability. In turn, perceived severity, self-efficacy, attitude, and subjective norms were the significant factors that affected the behavioral intention, impacting protective behavior. In addition, cognitive and macro ergonomics have been found to be the factors that influence the protective behavior of Filipinos against COVID-19. Thus, the study’s findings can be used as a framework for developing pandemic response initiatives that aim to inform and educate Filipinos, especially those who do not have the privilege of accessing information. Lastly, the outcome of this study can be used as a theoretical framework for future researchers who aim to conduct a study in a similar discipline.

Visual light flicker stimulation: enhancing alertness in sleep-deprived rats.

In the evolving field of neurophysiological research, visual light flicker stimulation is recognized as a promising non-invasive intervention for cognitive enhancement, particularly in sleep-deprived conditions. This study explored the effects of specific flicker frequencies (40 Hz and 20-30 Hz random flicker) on alertness recovery in sleep-deprived rats. We employed a multidisciplinary approach that included behavioral assessments with the Y-maze, in vivo electrophysiological recordings, and molecular analyses such as c-FOS immunohistochemistry and hormone level measurements. Both 40 Hz and 20-30 Hz flicker significantly enhanced behavioral performance in the Y-maze test, suggesting an improvement in alertness. Neurophysiological data indicated activation of neural circuits in key brain areas like the thalamus and hippocampus. Additionally, flicker exposure normalized cortisol and serotonin levels, essential for stress response and mood regulation. Notably, increased c-FOS expression in brain regions related to alertness and cognitive functions suggested heightened neural activity. These findings underscore the potential of light flicker stimulation not only to mitigate the effects of sleep deprivation but also to enhance cognitive functions. The results pave the way for future translational research into light-based therapies in human subjects, with possible implications for occupational health and cognitive ergonomics.

Virtual reality, face-to-face, and 2D video conferencing differently impact fatigue, creativity, flow, and decision-making in workplace dynamics

Digital communication technologies are rapidly evolving, and understanding their impact on group dynamics and cognitive performance in professional settings becomes central. This study investigates the psychological impact of different interaction settings—two-dimensional Video Conferencing (VC), Face-To-Face (FTF), and Virtual Reality (VR)—on group dynamics, cognitive performance, and aspects of well-being in a professional context. Utilizing a sample of 40 participants from a large Italian electricity transmission company, the study employs a within-subjects design to explore various metrics, including flow, creativity, fatigue and aspects of interaction. The results indicate that FTF interactions are optimal for idea generation and task absorption. VR, although initially more fatiguing for first-time users, fosters a more collaborative and peaceful environment, encouraging participants to engage more openly with each other. VC was found to be the least fatiguing, but also the least engaging in terms of task absorption and idea generation. Additionally, age-related differences were observed, particularly in the perception of motivational and emotional fatigue in the VR setting. The study provides empirical evidence supporting the integration of VR in professional settings for specific types of meetings, while also highlighting the limitations and areas for future research. These findings have implications for organizational well-being, cognitive ergonomics, and the evolving landscape of remote work technologies.

Don't Flip the Table Yet: A Framework for the Analysis of Visual and Cognitive Ergonomics in Board Games

Board games provide immersive and enjoyable experiences for players, but they can also pose usability challenges. This article presents a comprehensive framework for analyzing board game design, focusing on identifying the elements that make play inadvertently difficult or fatiguing. The proposed framework analyses board games as a user interface between the players and the board game mechanics, thereby focusing on the presentation aspects without altering the underlying rules. The intent is to preserve the deliberate design challenges that enhance gameplay while pinpointing the elements that affect the game experience negatively. We employ a methodology that begins with the observation of players’ behavioral cues to infer internal states such as cognitive or visual fatigue. These inferred states serve as a basis to identify problematic features in the game components or presentation. We illustrate the framework through a series of case studies, providing practical examples of the analysis process through an idiographic approach.

Neuro-adaptive architecture: Buildings and city design that respond to human emotions, cognitive states

Neuro-adaptive architecture has emerged as an interdisciplinary field aiming to cultivate buildings and urban environments responsive to human emotions, cognition, and well-being. Technological advances now enable unprecedented monitoring of occupants' psychological states through unobtrusive sensors, as well as adaptive modulation of environments via “smart” architectural components. If developed responsibly, these advancements hold great potential to optimize human experience and flourishing within the built milieu. However, they also present complex ethical challenges regarding privacy, consent, data security, globalization and equitable access that require thoughtful consideration. This paper provides a comprehensive review and synthesis of the opportunities and dilemmas at the nexus of neuroscience, architecture, and urban planning. Drawing from research worldwide, it examines the multidimensional issues involved and strategies for addressing them through participatory and empathic design practices. Case studies of experimental neuro-adaptive projects are discussed and recommendations provided for longitudinal evaluation of impacts on health, social outcomes, and well-being. Concepts such as cognitive ergonomics, sensory perception and emotional design, restorative urbanism, and adaptive living interfaces are explored through diverse methodologies and design hypotheses are provided for future interdisciplinary collaboration. Overall, this paper argues that responsibly optimized neuro-adaptive architecture could enhance human thriving in complex urban environments, but precautions are necessary to avoid risks to autonomy, equity or unintended consequences. Continued rigorous interdisciplinary work is imperative to navigate these opportunities and challenges, with consideration of technical, social and ethical implications at individual and societal levels.

Analyzing Cognitive Ergonomics and Key Determinants of Mental Workload in PDPT Operators at Universities

Analyzing Cognitive Ergonomics and Key Determinants of Mental Workload in PDPT Operators at Universities

Ergonomics in work situations of Ayurvedic therapists working in Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College, Ollur, Trissur

Introduction: Ergonomics is defined as the process of designing or arranging workplaces, products and systems so that they fit the people who use them. Physical, organizational and cognitive are the three types of ergonomics. Aims and Objectives: To assess the prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) in Ayurvedic therapists working in, Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College, Ollur, Trissur. Materials and Methods: A Descriptive cross sectional study was done. 17 therapists in VACH Ollur were surveyed consecutively regarding symptoms of Musculoskeletal disorders mainly LBA, neck pain, shoulder pain, knee pain and heel pain. Data were collected by using questionnaires and were analysed using appropriate statistical methods. Results: Out of 17 therapists, 52.9 % were females. Highest frequency of MSD was seen in the age group of 46-55 years. 80 % of the therapists were working more than 20 years. 64.5 % were suffering from LBA, 29.4% were suffering from neck pain, 23.8% were suffering from shoulder pain, 41.2% were suffering from knee pain and 17.6 % were suffering from heel pain. Discussion: Present study shows that MSD are common among therapists. Improper posture for different procedure can be the reason. Adhering to the principles of physical and cognitive ergonomics can prevent risk factors of developing MSD.

Contribution of Job Design and Ergonomics Considerations on Employee Performance in Service Sectors in Tanzania: A Qualitative Study

Aim: This study aimed to focus on discussing involvement of several techniques that used in job design which are job rotation, job enlargement, job enrichment, employee’s empowerment, and autonomy toward performance of manufacturing sectors as well focusing on discussing job design and ergonomic effect on employee performances in Tanzania Methodology: The study adopted investigative philosophy (Antipositivism) that advocate qualitative data methods; the cross-sectional survey design was used to measure variables relationship through reviewed of published literatures as well as asking collect information from key informants. The study focus was company’s operating on services sector that located in Dar es Salaam and Mbeya Cities. 20 past literatures were reviewed together with 9 key informant employees from services offered companies in study areas. The study adopted content analysis for analyzing data collected using interview technique integrated with Preferred Reporting for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Review (PRISMA-Scr) to analyses previous literatures. Findings: From the study results, there were significant relationship between job design techniques and employee motivation that lead to performance of services sector companies. This means there necessary to construct job design that promote employee performances. Also, in adaptation of job design the organization should consider improvement of workplace environment and office design overall to facilitate safety and health workplace relationship. Recommendations: The study recommendations to the companies are to reconsidered human factors when developing job structure to ensure physical, cognitive ergonomics, and organizational ergonomics are incorporated within job framework and reduce mental and physical problem related to working environment.