Operator Workload Research Articles

Multimodal Assessment of Mental Workload During Automated Vehicle Remote Assistance: Modeling of Eye-Tracking-Related, Skin Conductance, and Cardiovascular Indicators

Remote assistance for highly automated vehicles (HAVs), i.e., third-party assistance from support staff outside the vehicle in times of the need for assistance, presents a solution to extend the capabilities of HAVs by integrating a third party for decision making in uncertain situations. Similar to other control center positions, we expect the remote assistance tasks to exert high mental demands on the human operators. Therefore, we assessed impact of elevated mental workload during HAV remote assistance in a controlled environment in a user study (N = 37) with the goal of identifying cues to differentiate workload levels based on eye-tracking-related, skin conductance, and cardiovascular indicators. The results provide evidence that (A) elevated workload induced via a secondary task depreciates performance, and (B) we can identify workload levels person-independently as differences in tonic skin conductance (F(2,72) = 24.538, p < 0.001, partial η² = 0.405) and pupil dilation (F(2,72) = 13.872, p < 0.001, partial η² = 0.278), resulting in a classification accuracy of 58% in a three-class classification task. The results provide evidence that we are able to differentiate operator workload during remote assistance in a time-resolved way with the ultimate goal to provide adaptations to counteract task deficiencies.

Customer Support Automation of Ticket Creation (RPA) using UiPath

In the dynamic landscape of customer support, manual ticket creation from customer emails is a labor-intensive and error-prone process that impedes operational efficiency. This project proposes an automated system utilizing Robotic Process Automation (RPA) powered by UiPath to streamline the ticket creation process. The solution automates the extraction of critical data from emails, including customer IDs, issue descriptions, and priorities, to create tickets in Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems. Missing information prompts automated follow-ups, ensuring query resolution. Additionally, the system recognizes structured templates to send predefined responses to frequently asked questions, reduces response time, and handles bounced emails by notifying support teams. Scalability is achieved through parallel bot deployments, enabling efficiency, reduces manual high-volume processing with accuracy and speed. This automation framework enhances operational workload, and improves customer satisfaction, offering a scalable model adaptable across industries.

Research on the evaluation method of pilot workload in EVTOL aircraft operation

Research on the evaluation method of pilot workload in EVTOL aircraft operation

Smart Financial Management for Cooperatives: A Web and Payment Gateway Integration Approach

This study introduces a web-based application for savings and loan cooperatives, integrating a payment gateway to streamline financial transactions and improve operational efficiency. Developed using the waterfall methodology, the application enables members to deposit savings, apply for loans, and make installment payments online. Key features include automated financial reporting, secure transaction processing, and accessibility for cooperative managers and members. Black-box testing validated that the system met all functional requirements, ensuring reliable and secure operations. By automating administrative tasks and offering multiple payment options such as bank transfers and e-wallets, the application reduces operational workload, enhances service quality, and supports real-time financial transparency. This solution demonstrates significant potential for transforming cooperative financial management by offering a scalable, user-friendly, and secure approach to improving member services and operational sustainability.

The work organization in teleoperated driving – a human reliability and socio-technical systems perspective

Abstract Very high levels of automation in road traffic are accompanied by the need for teleoperation. If the driverless autonomous vehicle is not able to solve a complex driving situation, then the problem should be solved by a teleoperated intervention by getting a human into the loop. Such a system is highly complex, interacting in a socio-technical system. Therefore, in addition to the empirical research of user-centered development of teleoperated driving, an analytical and systemic approach is crucial in the first place to understand the interrelationships between the subsystems and to optimize a teleoperated driving system. This work provides a base for the systemic consideration by taking two different perspectives focusing on the work organization and vehicle operation dealing with how many vehicles can be monitored and serviced by one operator. First, a brief analytical perspective of human reliability is taken, emphasizing the appropriate definition of the operational design domain and knowledge of its variability. Second, a comprehensive systemic, socio-technical perspective is applied using the functional resonance analysis method (FRAM) for a reflexive and computational purpose highlighting effects on operator workload and traffic performance. Finally, the implications of the research results are discussed and integrated into socio-technical interactions in everyday teleoperated driving between blunt- and sharp-end factors from a safety and reliability perspective to demonstrate the complex leverage of the work organization. Overall, the insights contribute to an enhanced understanding of the complex socio-technical interactions in teleoperated driving.

Intelligent control system and operational performance optimization of a municipal solid waste incineration power plant

This study proposed an integrated intelligent control system in one municipal solid waste incineration power plant to improve the system's control accuracy, economic performance and environmental impact, including the intelligent combustion, intelligent denitrification, intelligent desulfurization and intelligent soot-blowing control subsystems. The precise detection and adjustment of the key operational parameters was achieved by integrating these modules into the existing distributed control system. A comparative analysis of the operation data between pre-optimization and post-optimization states was conducted to assess the changes in the key operational and economic parameters. The results indicate that the introduction of the intelligent control module can significantly improve the system stability and parameter control accuracy, thereby enhancing the economic efficiency of the waste incineration power plant and reducing the operation workload and the pollutants emissions. Specifically, the standard deviations of main steam flowrate and pressure decreased by 45.1 % and 60.7 %, respectively. Furthermore, the consumptions of the ammonia water and lime slurry were reduced by 38.2 % and 23.2 %, respectively, while the auxiliary power consumption rate declined by two percentage points, and the power generation per ton of waste increased by 4.2 %. These improvements not only strengthen the economic benefits but also effectively reduce the pollutants emissions.

Application of spaghetti knotting technology in single-hole laparoscopic suturing instructional program on the basis of multi-directional stitching technology: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundSpaghetti knotting technology is an emerging technique that can reduce the visual field restriction of the operator in laparo-endoscopic single site (LESS) surgery. Multi-directional stitching technology has been proved to improve the accuracy of suturing in clinical application of LESS surgery. Therefore, we conducted a study to evaluate the teaching efficacy and the operation workload of spaghetti knotting technology and conventional knotting technology in LESS suture teaching based on the multi-directional stitching technology.MethodsWe selected forty junior residents to learn the skill of knot tying with single-hole laparoscopic simulators. The forty students were randomly and equally divided into control group and experimental group. The control group was trained by the conventional knotting method, and the experimental group was trained by the spaghetti knotting technology. The grades were calculated before and after the training program, including operation score of suturing time, trhead length, needle insertion accuracy, knotting stability, tissue integrity, tissue tightness and the cognitive workload score of mental, physical and temporal demands, performance, effort and frustration.ResultsThere was no significant difference between two groups before training. After training, knotting skills and workload were significantly improved. There were significant differences between the two groups in knotting time (p = 0.001), thread length (p = 0.01), and tissue integrity(p = 0.003). The experiment group took less time, left longer thread and had higher tissue integrity. The workload of the experiment group was also accurately reduced. However, there was no significant difference between the two groups in needle insertion accuracy(p = 0.560), knotting stability(p = 0.059), and tissue tightness(p = 0.731).ConclusionIn LESS suture teaching based on the multi-directional stitching technology, the training of spaghetti knotting techniques significantly improved students’ learning efficacy and reduced their workload compared to training conventional knotting techniques. It suggested the combination of spaghetti knotting and multi-directional stitching technology could be a practicable method for laparoscopic skills teaching and a feasible clinical application value on spaghetti knotting technology in LESS surgery.

Understanding the Impact of Data Center Liquid Cooling on Energy and Performance of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence Workloads

Abstract Traditionally, Data Centers (DC) have used air cooling for IT equipment, but as Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) evolve, they demand more power and sophisticated cooling. Aiming for efficiency, Direct Liquid Cooling (DLC) emerges as a promising solution. We evaluated the effectiveness of DLC versus traditional air cooling on a Microsoft G50 GPU server performing AI/ML tasks. The results indicated that DLC greatly enhances GPU performance, increases efficiency by 2.7% in Gflops/s, cuts power usage by 12%, reduces execution times by up to 6.22%, and lowers chip temperatures by 20° compared to air cooling. Our research develops an overall performance metric that considers data center, hardware, and chip levels, concluding that DLC is extremely beneficial for AI workloads, increasing energy savings and balancing performance with power requirements.

A Robotic Teleoperation System with Integrated Augmented Reality and Digital Twin Technologies for Disassembling End-of-Life Batteries

Disassembly is a key step in remanufacturing, especially for end-of-life (EoL) products such as electric vehicle (EV) batteries, which are challenging to dismantle due to uncertainties in their condition and potential risks of fire, fumes, explosions, and electrical shock. To address these challenges, this paper presents a robotic teleoperation system that leverages augmented reality (AR) and digital twin (DT) technologies to enable a human operator to work away from the danger zone. By integrating AR and DTs, the system not only provides a real-time visual representation of the robot’s status but also enables remote control via gesture recognition. A bidirectional communication framework established within the system synchronises the virtual robot with its physical counterpart in an AR environment, which enhances the operator’s understanding of both the robot and task statuses. In the event of anomalies, the operator can interact with the virtual robot through intuitive gestures based on information displayed on the AR interface, thereby improving decision-making efficiency and operational safety. The application of this system is demonstrated through a case study involving the disassembly of a busbar from an EoL EV battery. Furthermore, the performance of the system in terms of task completion time and operator workload was evaluated and compared with that of AR-based control methods without informational cues and ‘smartpad’ controls. The findings indicate that the proposed system reduces operation time and enhances user experience, delivering its broad application potential in complex industrial settings.

Implementation of an IoT Based Billing System to Optimize Management of Billiard Table Usage

This research develops an IoT-based billing system for managing billiard table usage, aimed at addressing various issues arising from the use of manual systems. Currently, many billiard table rental businesses still rely on manual methods for transaction recording and lamp control, which increases the risk of rate manipulation, inaccurate transaction reports, and inefficient resource management. The manual process also adds to the workload of operators, especially when billiard tables are located far apart. The developed system utilizes Bluetooth sensors and a web app to automatically control the billiard table lamps, thereby reducing manipulation and improving operational efficiency. Testing shows that the system accurately calculates the usage fees and controls the lamp status based on commands from the web server. As a result, the system not only enhances the accuracy of cost calculation and the reliability of billiard table management but also provides a better user experience. Thus, the implementation of this IoT-based billing system offers significant benefits in optimizing billiard center management.

A case study of the subjective workload of forest equipment operators in South Carolina

ABSTRACT Logging operations in the Southern United States have become more mechanized over time. However, extensive use of complex and heavy forest machineries for long durations increases operator workload, especially the cognitive demand. Working under demanding conditions can decrease the health of forest equipment operators over time, reducing productivity and increasing the risk of accidents. This study provides an initial assessment of the workload of logging equipment operators during timber harvesting operations using conventional wheeled feller-buncher, grapple skidder, and knuckle-boom loader harvesting systems by assessing the subjective workload of the logging equipment operators in South Carolina. In addition, we observed the heart rate of equipment operators to study the activities causing excessive physical and mental workload. Logging equipment operators self-evaluated their workload using the NASA Task Load Index, a subjective measure of workload. Results show no significant difference in the overall workload of equipment operators working at clearcut and thinning sites. The workload dimensions of Effort and Frustration contributed the most to the overall workload, while Performance had the least contribution. Sudden heart rate spikes occurred when operators conducted physical activities such as clearing debris from a felling head but were otherwise unobserved.

Analisis beban kerja mental operator produksi aksesoris motor menggunakan metode National Aeronautics And Space Administartion Task Load Index (NASA TLX) di CV. Anugerah Teknik

CV Anugerah Teknik is a company engaged in motorcycle components and accessories. Product development and certification can affect the workload of production operators. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the mental workload of production operators. Data was collected through interviews and distributing questionnaires to production operators. This research uses the NASA-TLX method. The results of the analysis show that the average value of mental workload of production operators is 72.13, which falls into the high category. To reduce the workload, it is recommended to increase the number of operators in the production division, which can lower the score to 49.18.

Application of 360 Camera Technology and Excavator Operator Workload at a Nickel Ore Mine and Its Implication for Work Accident Rates Using the Nasa-TLX Method

Indonesia, as one of the largest nickel producers in the world, has around 90% of nickel reserves spread across various regions, such as Central Sulawesi, South Sulawesi, Southeast Sulawesi, and North Maluku. Even though demand for nickel continues to increase, a severe problem that needs attention is the rate of work accidents in mining fields. Most heavy equipment accidents that occur are caused by operator negligence while operating. This negligence can occur when operators are in a hurry, make mistakes while using heavy equipment, or do not have proper work time management. This research aims to analyze the impact of 360-degree camera technology on excavator operators in nickel ore mines on work accident rates and operator workload. The case study was carried out at PT Rifky and Raisha Anursyah using the NASA-TLX method to measure workload. In contrast, the number of accidents that occurred to each operator within one month was used to measure work accidents. The 360 camera technology provides a comprehensive view of the work environment, allowing operators to monitor the surrounding area better and reduce blind spots. The research results show that applying this technology can reduce the risk of work accidents and increase the work efficiency of excavator operators. With better monitoring, operators can identify potential hazards earlier and reduce the risk of accidents. Workload evaluation using NASA-TLX shows a decrease in operator workload after implementing 360 camera technology. This research provides strategic recommendations for workload management and implementing safety technology in the mining industry.

Vision-sharing system for android avatars to enable remote eye contact

Maintaining eye contact is a fundamental aspect of non-verbal communication, yet current remote communication tools, such as video calls, struggle to replicate the natural eye contact experienced in face-to-face interactions. This study presents a cutting-edge vision-sharing system for android avatars that enables remote eye contact by synchronizing the eye movements of the operator and the avatar. Our innovative system features an eyeball integrated with a wide-angle lens camera, meticulously designed to mimic human eyes in both appearance and functionality. This technology is seamlessly integrated into android avatars, enabling operators to perceive the avatar’s surroundings as if physically present. It provides a stable and immersive visual experience through a head-mounted display synchronized with the avatar’s gaze direction. Through rigorous experimental evaluations, we demonstrated the system’s ability to faithfully replicate the operator’s perspective through the avatar, making eye contact more intuitive and effortless compared with conventional methods. Subjective assessments further validated the system’s capacity to reduce operational workload and enhance user experience. These compelling findings underscore the potential of our vision-sharing system to elevate the realism and efficacy of remote communication using android avatars.

Analysis of Workload of Corn Seed Planting Equipment Operators Integrated with Fertilization Equipment

Introduction: The use of corn seed planting tools integrated with fertilizing tools requires a lot of energy because workers act as controllers, so that it often causes physical and mental workloads. Workloads that are too heavy and exceed work capacity can cause fatigue. This fatigue will eventually cause pain. Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the physical workload of operators in operating corn seed planting tools integrated with fertilizing tools in supporting SDGs. Method: The methodology used in this study includes pulse observations carried out 5 times on each operator for 3 working days. The pulse before and after implantation was measured by measuring the pulse on the wrist artery with the 10-beat method. Results and Discussion: The results showed that the worker's pulse can describe the workload as a manifestation of muscle movement when doing work. The greater the muscle activity, the greater the fluctuation of the pulse movement that occurs. The operator's workload is in the light to medium category. Oxygen consumption of workers is influenced by the intensity of the work done. Based on oxygen consumption data, it is known that the workload of this corn seed planting tool is still relatively low because workers still feel comfortable and safe while doing planting work. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this study prove that the greater the muscle activity, the greater the fluctuation of the pulse rate movement that occurs. Workers' oxygen consumption is influenced by the intensity of the work being done. Originality/Value: This study contributes that the worker's pulse rate indicates workload as a manifestation of muscle movement while working. The workload of this corn seed planter is still relatively low because workers still feel comfortable and safe when using the corn seed planter.

Derecho Penal Sustantivo y Adjetivo en México: control social para la prevención y represión de conductas delictivas

This study aimed to analyze the persistent human rights violations within the Mexican criminal justice system, despite the reforms implemented. The main objective was to examine the role of formal social control in crime prevention and repression, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of substantive and procedural criminal law in protecting fundamental rights. To conduct this research, an review of specialized literature and reports from international and national organizations was carried out. The results reveal that, despite normative advances, practices such as torture, arbitrary detention, and inhumane prison conditions persist. These violations are exacerbated by the lack of judicial independence, corruption, and impunity. The analysis of substantive and procedural criminal law showed that, while there are advances in legislation, problems such as the imprecision of some criminal offenses, the workload of system operators, and the lack of resources persist. In conclusion, the Mexican criminal justice system faces significant challenges in protecting human rights. A comprehensive reform is required that addresses the structural causes of violations, strengthens judicial independence, professionalizes police forces, and guarantees access to justice. Furthermore, it is essential to promote a culture of legality and respect for human rights.

ThP7.8 - What is the gap in operative trauma surgical skills needed for humanitarian and military deployment? A systematic narrative review of surgeons in high-income countries

Abstract Aims The incidence of armed conflict, terrorist attacks and environmental disaster is increasing and death from traumatic injury remains a leading cause of mortality globally, posing complex challenges in surgical care. Despite advancements in trauma systems development, practice in high-income countries (HICs) is characterised by low trauma volumes, evolving non-operative strategies and increasing sub-specialisation, raising concerns about surgical preparedness for managing diverse injuries. This systematic review aims to assess the operative trauma skills of surgeons in HICs mapped against core military and humanitarian procedures. Examination of the breadth of skills acquired and identification of areas where further experience is required will inform the development of more comprehensive and adaptable surgical training programs. Methods A systematic literature review was conducted under the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines using MEDLINE and EMBASE. Inclusion criteria targeted general and trauma surgery consultants or trainees in HICs, analysing quantitative and qualitative data on operative workload and skills acquisition. Results Twelve studies from the USA, UK, Netherlands, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand were included. Trainees demonstrated experience in general surgical trauma but lack exposure to critical skills in orthopaedic, vascular and obstetric and gynaecological surgery. Conclusion This review highlights a gap in the operative trauma surgical skills of surgeons in HICs and the need for re-evaluation of surgical training curricula to address the dynamic challenges posed by contemporary trauma care. Emphasising a versatile skillset and exploring avenues for enhanced exposure through didactic courses and global surgery partnerships might prove crucial for better preparing surgeons for the diverse and demanding scenarios in the field of trauma care

Study on the evaluation method of pilot workload in eVTOL aircraft operation

This paper investigates the pilot control strategy and workload associated with the manned electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. This research aims to identify control strategies that are both rational and effective in reducing the pilot's workload. Although the Cooper-Harper rating (HQR, Handling Quality Rating) remains the prevalent benchmark for assessing pilot workload, its subjective nature often complicates the precise quantitative identification of the key factors influencing workload. This study introduces an assessment method for pilot control workload using wavelet transform to evaluate pilot workload, focusing on the correlation between pilot control magnitude, frequency components, and complexity. We begin with a review of control action analysis methods in both time and frequency domains. Subsequently, by selecting an appropriate wavelet function and a sampling frequency, we develop the assessment method for pilot control strategy and workload based on wavelet analysis. Finally, we assess pilot workload using real pilot inputs with HQRs obtained from helicopter flight tests and tilt-rotor aircraft conversion simulations. The results indicate that this approach is capable of precisely pinpointing the frequency components and energy levels within pilot control actions throughout different time periods. Furthermore, a significant correlation is observed between pilot control characteristics, frequency components, and HQRs. Consequently, the developed approach provides a rational framework for quantifying and analyzing pilot workload in a range of eVTOL aircraft scenarios.

Early-stage Testing of Thermal Power Dispatch Simulator for Subjective Mental Workload and Evolution Time

The excess thermal energy produced by nuclear power plants (NPPs) during low electricity demands can be utilized in industrial processes, such as hydrogen production, through a thermal power dispatch (TPD) system. Initial testing of the first iteration of a single-train TPD design with a manual control mode at the Idaho National Lab (INL) revealed a high operator workload and degraded control capability. The current study evaluated the impact of an enhanced dual-train TPD design on operators’ subjective mental workload and evolution task-time while completing two operating scenarios in manual and automatic control modes. The results showed no statistically significant difference between participants’ mental workload using both control modes. Evolution time in automatic control mode took a shorter time than in manual control, with participants completing all evolutions in less than the 10-min set as the design specification limit. The shorter evolution time is discussed within the context of plant safety and operational efficiency.

Real-Time Monitoring of Human and Process Performance Parameters in Collaborative Assembly Systems using Multivariate Control Charts

With the rise in customized product demands, the production of small batches with a wide variety of products is becoming more common. A high degree of flexibility is required from operators to manage changes in volumes and products, which has led to the use of Human-Robot Collaboration (HRC) systems for custom manufacturing. However, this variety introduces complexity that affects production time, cost, and quality. To address this issue, multivariate control charts are used as diagnostic tools to evaluate the stability of several parameters related to both product/process and human well-being in HRC systems. These key parameters monitored include assembly time, quality control time, total defects, and operator stress, providing a more holistic view of system performance. Real-time monitoring of process performance along with human-related factors, which is rarely considered in statistical process control, provides comprehensive stability control over all customized product variants produced in the HRC system. The proposed approach includes defining the parameters to be monitored, constructing control charts, collecting data after product variant assembly, and verifying that the set of parameters is under control via control charts. This increases the system's responsiveness to both process inefficiencies and human well-being. The procedure can be automated by embedding control chart routines in the software of the HRC system or its digital twin, without adding additional tasks to the operator's workload. Its practicality and effectiveness are evidenced in custom electronic board assembly, highlighting its role in optimizing HRC system performance.