Ergonomic System Research Articles

The approach to the evaluation of options of the activities of the operators technical support information services telecommunication systems

The purpose of the article is the development of formalized models and algorithms for estimating the activity of operators working in telecommunication systems, specializing in providing IT services to the population and companies. The generalized structural method of the functional and structural theory of ergonomic and technical systems of professor A. I. Gubinsky is chosen as a basic solving method. The method is based on the use of standard functional units to describe the algorithms of activity. These units are presented in the form of functional networks. A number of formalized descriptions of algorithms of the operators’ activities for elimination of some problems of IT services providing is developed. The calculations of probability of timely and faultless execution of the activities algorithm for the elimination of one of possible problem situations are performed. The technology of the account at an assessment of reliability of activities for elimination of problems is shown. This technology considers such parameters as activity algorithms, operators’ qualification and working conditions at the workplaces. The advantage of the method consists in a possibility of receiving the unambiguous computer focused models and numerical estimation of various options of operators’ activities, who have different qualification. Using the proposed approach allows to develop the actions related to the search of ergonomic reserves of systems efficiency increase of providing access to resources of computer networks. The developed models can be the basis for decision support system for the optimization of operators’ activities. The difficulties of the method include the complexity of formation of initial data for the calculation and the necessity of supporting special statistical databases, also the need of systematic assessment of working conditions at the workplace of people working in the system

360 Direct comparison of an ergonomic laparoscopic system with robotic surgery, in terms of operating speed, in an inanimate experimental laparoscopic radical prostatectomy setting

360 Direct comparison of an ergonomic laparoscopic system with robotic surgery, in terms of operating speed, in an inanimate experimental laparoscopic radical prostatectomy setting

Problem of consciousness in learning systems and environments

The article deals with the problems that arise when a human is involved into a complexly training systems and the environment. A theoretical analysis of the infl uence of consciousness on the training mechanisms within the framework of post non-classical conceptions of human psyche functioning was conceived. We argue that consciousness is not intended to refl ect the objective reality and acquire knowledge, and solves the problem of the construction of the subjective world, which is the sum of compromises between the subject and the dynamic environments of his experience. In contrast, consciousness selects and harmonizes the information useful for human life. The role of consciousness in training is largely contradictory and confusing. It is also the source of the new information. The information is distorted in order to create a world view, which tends to objectively contradictive to the outside observer and consistent for refl ective being. We stressed the important role of human’s multimodal sensory experience in the process of interaction between conscious and unconscious forms of knowledge creation and processing. We consider the qualitative difference between physical reality and the model presented in the subjective world. We postulated the existence in the mind of a human dynamic virtual model. According to this model, the natural world is delimited by person and opposed to it being a source of events that make up the content of his life. The border which was built in the consciousness divides constructed reality into the inner and outer worlds. These worlds have different significance for the subject, defining the nature of its activities. We analyzed models the structure of reality and reality as a world’s refl ection offered by Karl Popper, K. K. Kolin, R. Redfield, G. Roth. The attention was paid to the neurobiological model of subjective reality by V. Sergin, which proposed a hypothesis of automatic identification postulating a secondary to human sensory categories. These processes occur cyclically, and their frequency determines the speed of subjective time. The authors of this article propose a mechanism of generating a subject environment (the world of reality) according to which the environment is perceived by man. It is organized element of subjective reality constructed by the body in the process of analyzing the essential relationship of the body and physical reality. It is presented in the form of coordination with other autopoietic systems that allow for the integration of the body and the subject in a niche of individual existence. It is a complex structural evolutionary self-organizing system, resulting from the interaction and coordination of autopoietic systems of the body. Subjective reality is the result of a reduction in the physical reality organization of the human psyche. We show the infl uence of the mind on the mechanisms of human integration with artificial learning environments. It is concluded that in order to improve the effectiveness of complex training ergonomics systems must take into account the properties of conscious regulation of the subject, its dependence on the context. To protect against the destructive mechanisms of action of consciousness training we advise to restrict the user’s intervention in critical modes of operation created a complex training system.

Ergonomic Convergence of a Modular Integrator in Aspect of Soldier’s Situational Awareness on the Battlefield

Herein article describes the result of analysis of fitting the Modular Integrator (M-ITG) to a man operating in a given environment-the battlefield. Applying the Modular Integrator is one of main methods of increasing soldier’s situational awareness on the battlefield through using advanced technical and electronic devices to manage its C4I system. Functional aspects of the M-ITG support a soldier in everyday combat operations, while increasing soldier’s situational awareness. Main tasks of this device are to provide the soldier with maximum safety during performing his combat missions. It also integrates the electronic and optoelectronic equipment, improves commanding the battle team, ensures a flow of voice information, sending data and images and displays the tactical situation on its screen. Centralizing the device lets to reduce the number of actions that a soldier would have to perform, and thus shortens the time of concentration loss on the battlefield. The dependency system between the battlefield the soldier and the Modular Integrator has been described in this material as a classic ergonomics system (a man-a technical object-the environment). The indication of convergence between the Modular Integrator and the user, as well as other elements of the environment, contributes to increasing the situational awareness on the battlefield, which is confirmed by the prepared matrix of dependencies. The results shown, that the examined equipment meets the specific ergonomics requirements in the triangle between a man-a technical object and the environment of the battlefield.

Системно-психологические аспекты автоматизации и роботизации техногенных сред

In the current article, we discuss the systematic, methodological and psychological problems arising in the evolution process and global technogenic environments, and their agents' role. We present the scientific prerequisites of the human integration with the technogenic environment and explore the psychological problems of the technogenic improvement of a human personality, with a focus on the contradiction between "the complex world and simple consciousness", limited by a person's ability of adaptation to the complex environments and group activity in the technogenic environment. The organized character of the technogenic environment is associated with the creative qualities of man and society, which are a system consequence of the interaction between the social and psychobiological autopoietic systems, which implement the principle of a total autopoetic organization of the human-dimension systems. Appearance of robots and mechanistic modules solving local tasks in the technogenic environment results in the problem of coexistence of humans and autonomous engineering systems with artificial intelligence. This requires an understanding of the questions of interaction with of the self-organizing autopoietic systems, which differ from the classical physical interaction. The ergonomics and engineering disciplines face new challenges associated with the human factor in the development of complex technical environments and systems, including humans as actors in the artificial environment. At that, the classical disciplinary fields of ergonomics and engineering psychology transfer to the neoclassical ideas of self-organization and self-development of the complex systems and environments, which extends and complements their conceptual area. Integration of the humanities and engineering knowledge requires higher levels of the psychological education for the developers of the complex technical ergonomic systems and environments.

E-Health: A promising solution for optimizing management of chronic diseases. Example of the national e-Health project E-care based on an e-platform in the context of chronic heart failure

Summary Background Monitoring patients with heart failure by using telemedicine systems is a potential means for optimizing the management of these patients and to facilitate the job of health care professionals. We report the experience of the deployment of such a monitoring platform, through the E-care project. Methods The national e-heath project E-care has developed an “intelligent” communicative platform enabling the monitoring of patients with NYHA stages III and IV heart failure using non-invasive sensors. This project has been deployed since October 2013 in the Strasbourg University Hospital (in Strasbourg, France). Results To date, more than 180 patients have been included. The patient profile included was: elderly patient, with several chronic diseases (>90%), chronic heart failure in more than 60% of cases, total loss of autonomy in 25%. The E-care system operated perfectly and the experimental phase enabled us to validate the technological choices. A qualitative survey helped to positively assess the system's ergonomics. A preliminary analysis of the relevance of alerts with our inference engine design resulted in no malfunction. Conclusion Preliminary results following the deployment of E-care system in hospitals appear to show that this platform will assist health care professionals, especially patient nurse or doctor, by providing an automated processing of these sensors’ transmitted data in order to early detect and report signs of cardiac impairment.

Global drivers, sustainable manufacturing and systems ergonomics

This paper briefly explores the expected impact of the ‘Global Drivers’ (such as population demographics, food security; energy security; community security and safety), and the role of sustainability engineering in mitigating the potential effects of these Global Drivers. The message of the paper is that sustainability requires a significant input from Ergonomics/Human Factors, but the profession needs some expansion in its thinking in order to make this contribution.Creating a future sustainable world in which people experience an acceptable way of life will not happen without a large input from manufacturing industry into all the Global Drivers, both in delivering products that meet sustainability criteria (such as durability, reliability, minimised material requirement and low energy consumption), and in developing sustainable processes to deliver products for sustainability (such as minimum waste, minimum emissions and low energy consumption). Appropriate changes are already being implemented in manufacturing industry, including new business models, new jobs and new skills.Considerable high-level planning around the world is in progress and is bringing about these changes; for example, there is the US ‘Advanced Manufacturing National Program’ (AMNP)’, the German ‘Industrie 4.0’ plan, the French plan ‘la nouvelle France industrielle’ and the UK Foresight publications on the ‘Future of Manufacturing’.All of these activities recognise the central part that humans will continue to play in the new manufacturing paradigms; however, they do not discuss many of the issues that systems ergonomics professionals acknowledge. This paper discusses a number of these issues, highlighting the need for some new thinking and knowledge capture by systems ergonomics professionals. Among these are ethical issues, job content and skills issues.Towards the end, there is a summary of knowledge extensions considered necessary in order that systems ergonomists can be fully effective in this new environment, together with suggestions for the means to acquire and disseminate the knowledge extensions.

Rigid endoscopy in the out-patient clinic.

This paper presents an efficient and ergonomic system for performing rigid endoscopic examination in the out-patient clinic setting. The set-up encourages user comfort, and facilitates clear images of the nasal mucosa, nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. This consisted of anti-fog solution, a 5 ml syringe, a cardboard receiver and gauze. By using disposable equipment we encourage good infection control practices. We recommend that users of rigid endoscopes in the out-patient setting consider setting up for each patient in this manner.

Using the Theory of Technical Systems to Describe the Interaction between Human and Technical Systems within the Ergonomic System

The application of ergonomics in enterprises is gaining in importance. Nowadays ergonomics in enterprises is addressed in a more technical manner. Therefore it is necessary to try to adapt generally applicable ergonomic practices to a technical perception. The result of this is a search for approaches that can be used as a link between technical and ergonomic perspectives of problems in the workplace. The Theory of Technical Systems has been found to be suitable for this. The first part of this article deals with the application of the Theory of Technical Systems to ergonomics. The second part is devoted to the use of the Product Life Cycle according to the Theory of Technical Systems. This theory allows the technically comprehensible analysis of the interaction between the basic elements of the Ergonomic Human-Machine-Environment system. The third part describes the interaction between Human and Technical Systems.

Comparison of Air Conditioning Systems for Advanced Data Centers

Considering nowadays growth of electronic data, the necessity of major data centers establishment is also increasing. Such centers may contain data distribution, storing and processing systems, like servers. The equipment generates huge heat energy, so an appropriate microclimate is required in such premises. High capacity air conditioners are used for maintaining of appropriate parameters and assuring normal functioning of these systems. Herein you can find comparison analysis of central and precision air conditioning systems considering two parameters: cost and energy efficiency for the central regions of the Russian Federation. During such comparison analysis the most cost-efficient and ergonomic air conditioning system was revealed for the Data Center Berzarina, Moscow.

Application of Selected Quantitative Analysis Methods in the Design of an Ergonomic System

The article discusses the application of selected methods for analyzing value in the macroergonomic design of manufacturing systems for developing optimal working conditions for humans and optimal ways to utilize technical machinery and equipment. The selected value analysis method was used to assess the value of factors contributing to the occurrence of hazards at the workstations used by screw injection mold operators employed in a plastics processing company. The authors chose to focus on such positions as they pose the biggest threat to human life and health. An analysis relying on the Pareto method (ABC) helped define the optimization tasks as well as the degree of validity and mitigation of the assessed hazards. The conclusions present a model for adopting changes and improvements in the process of redesigning the macroergonomic system to create optimal working conditions in the company in question.

Automation of Force Assessment Generated by Upper Limb for Ergonomic System EAWS

Ergonomic assessment systems were created for possibility of prediction and risk detection at workplace. Ergonomic assessment system EAWS (European Assembly Work-Sheet) includes assessment of body postures, action forces, weight of carrying loads and frequently recurring upper limb loads assessment. Assessment of action forces (forces generated by upper limb defined by EAWS) is problematic and there is a lack of means for effective assessment. This paper deals with design of electronic device for assessment of action forces generated by upper limb defined by EAWS with using of thin film FSR (force sensing resistor). The paper deals with identification of upper limb areas, where the generated forces are important for assessment by EAWS, deployment of sensors in identified areas, calibration of FSR sensor with regard to simply program implementation in microcontroller, determination of action forces in every by EAWS defined action force application and construction of sensing and evaluating part of electronic device.

3D Endoscopic Endonasal Approach in Skull Base Surgery: Experience on 87 Consecutive Patients

Objectives: Assess advantages and disadvantages of 3-dimensional endoscopy in the transnasal approach to sellar region, posterior skull base, and cervical junction. Methods: Between January 2012 and December 2013, 87 patients were consecutively treated at the Neurosurgery Division of the University of Turin for sellar, skull base, and cervical junction pathologies. All procedures were performed by the same team (2 ENT surgeons and 2 neurosurgeons) using a 3-dimensional (3D) stereoendoscope (VSII system, Visionsense Ltd, Petach Tikva, Israel). After each procedure each surgeon was asked to fill out a questionnaire (based on visual analogue scales) designed to assess comfort and learning curve. Results: Seventy patients were treated for pituitary macroadenomas, 10 for chordomas, 6 for a malformation of the cervical junction, and 1 for a chondrosarcoma of the odontoid process of C2. A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak was observed in 6 out of 70 patients, 1 out of 10 patients, and 0 out of 7 patients, respectively; 5 out of 7 CSF leaks were intraoperatively solved and 2 out of 7 required revision surgery. No vascular complications were recorded. Median global comfort score (sensation of strain + dizziness + system ergonomics scores), recorded at the end of the first and second procedure, was 9.1 and 9.6, respectively; after the third procedure it reached 10. The learning curve score reached the maximum level of 9.5 after the eighth procedure. Conclusions: 3D stereoscopic vision system is comfortable for the surgeons allowing them to have a better visualization of anatomic structures and landmarks; it is easy to use and after only a few procedures surgeon skills reach high levels.

Computer Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery: Is the Movement Mainstream?

The first computer-assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) was performed in 1997. The FDA approved computer assisted knee arthroplasty systems used in the early 2000s. Since then, surgeons and institutions all over the world have gradually adopted the technology. While the computer holds an importance place in the majority of workspaces across all industries, computer-assisted surgical technique has yet to become the preferred tool of the orthopaedic surgeon. Why has e-instrumentation not yet substituted conventional instrumentation in TKA orthopaedic surgery? In this article, we argue that main reasons which oppose the use of this technology are based on inaccurate or misleading observations. We isolated the factors likely to explain such opposition to this innovation: current results of total knee replacement, surgeon age, operative time, system ergonomics, cost for users, and cost for suppliers and disruptive innovations. Other factors such as surgeon habits, hospital environment and available assistance for support, although relevant, are not discussed. We assessed the advantages and drawbacks, costs and benefits of this technology to assess whether or not this opposition is justified. Finally, we explored the reasons why such a technology may impel surgeons to use this technique or any related technologies in the future. The main factors limiting TKA navigation spreading amongst orthopaedic surgeons are ergonomics and economics. Other factors, such as current TKA outcomes and surgeon's age are fallacious arguments in the rebuttal of CAS system use. Computer assisted knee arthroplasty surgery is not yet mainstream, but TKA will not escape technological progress.

Experimental evaluation of dynamics state of «driver – vehicle»

The studies, given in the paper, deal with forecasting the evolution of systems. Despite the large number of studies on the evolution forecasting, many issues remain understudied. In particular, the evolution patterns of ergonomic systems require the additional studies. This justifies the relevance of the conducted studies. For the experimental investigation of the development patterns of the system “driver − vehicle − transport network − environment”, the method for studying the prototype dynamics of the system - “driver” in the short time intervals can be used. The results of the experimental evaluation of state dynamics of the ergonomic system “driver − vehicle “, which confirm the theoretical studies of forecasting the evolution of the system “driver − vehicle − transport network − environment” on qualitative differences in the state dynamics at the stages of destruction and formation of determinism in the system. Destruction of the old determinism is a necessary condition for the formation of the new one. This condition is formulated as the principle of systems functioning and is called “the principle of the necessary destruction of the old determinism”. Occurrence of “the principle of destruction...”in the structure of driver’s activities allows using it as one of the most important principles of design and maintenance of roads.

Extending systems ergonomics thinking to accommodate the socio-technical issues of Systems of Systems

Socio-technical issues for Systems of Systems (SoS) differ in several ways from those for systems, mainly because the individual systems that are components of the SoS are usually owned by different organisations, each responsible for the optimisation and operation of its own system. Consequently, management of the SoS is about negotiation and management of the interfaces. Because of issues of Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs), commercial confidence, and the like, there is seldom sufficient, timely information in circulation about the SoS. Surprises are endemic to SoS, and resilience is a fundamental requirement. This paper outlines the different characteristics of SoS compared to ordinary systems, discusses many of the socio-technical issues involved, and then outlines a generic approach to these issues, treating the SoS as a ‘wicked problem’. Endemic to this is the need for governance, which is discussed briefly. This is followed by a description of the evident gaps in knowledge about the functioning of SoS, and a listing of tool classes, the development of which would enable progress to be made more effectively. Finally, the paper discusses how the SoS approach might be the best way to entrain ICT to address global drivers, thus pointing to the importance of the SoS approach.

Crossing levels in systems ergonomics: A framework to support ‘mesoergonomic’ inquiry

In this paper we elaborate and articulate the need for what has been termed ‘mesoergonomics’. In particular, we argue that the concept has the potential to bridge the gap between, and integrate, established work within the domains of micro- and macroergonomics. Mesoergonomics is defined as an open systems approach to human factors and ergonomics (HFE) theory and research whereby the relationship between variables in at least two different system levels or echelons is studied, and where the dependent variables are human factors and ergonomic constructs. We present a framework which can be used to structure a set of questions for future work and prompt further empirical and conceptual inquiry. The framework consists of four steps: (1) establishing the purpose of the mesoergonomic investigation; (2) selecting human factors and ergonomics variables; (3) selecting a specific type of mesoergonomic investigation; and (4) establishing relationships between system levels. In addition, we describe two case studies which illustrate the workings of the framework and the value of adopting a mesoergonomic perspective within HFE. The paper concludes with a set of issues which could form part of a future agenda for research within systems ergonomics.

Evaluating models in systems ergonomics with a taxonomy of model attributes

A model, as the term is used here, is a way of representing knowledge for the purpose of thinking, communicating to others, or implementing decisions as in system analysis, design or operations. It can be said that to the extent that we can model some aspect of nature we understand it. Models can range from fleeting mental images to highly refined mathematical equations of computer algorithms that precisely predict physical events. In constructing and evaluating models of ergonomic systems it is important that we consider the attributes of our models in relation to our objectives and what we can reasonably aspire to. To that end this paper proposes a taxonomy of models in terms of six independent attributes: applicability to observables, dimensionality, metricity, robustness, social penetration and conciseness. Each of these attributes is defined along with the meaning of different levels of each. The attribute taxonomy may be used to evaluate the quality of a model. Examples of system ergonomics models having different combinations of attributes at different levels are provided. Philosophical caveats regarding models in system ergonomics are discussed, as well as the relation to scientific method.

Preliminary Analysis of a New Ergonomic System for Surgical Instruments Used in Laparoscopy

Background. The laparoscopic surgeon requires very fine motor dexterity to perform complex surgical procedures. This skill can be significantly altered by the motor stress of the surgeon, which mainly results from a lack of ergonomics of the instruments. The objective of this article was to analyse a new ergonomic system that can significantly reduce motor stress. Material and Methods. Two expert surgeons tested the new ergonomic system by performing transfer and suture tasks. The results were compared to those obtained from executing the same tasks using commercial laparoscopic instruments, without any pre-selection being established. Electronic switches were placed on the handles of the instruments to register the time of opening and closure, as well as the time taken to complete the tasks. Results. The comparative data indicate that the new ergonomic system substantially reduces the motor stress of the surgeon by reducing the number of manual operations needed to carry out the routine training tasks of transfer and suture. Conclusions. A new ergonomic system has been developed that reduces the number of manual operations required for carrying out the same task using commercial laparoscopic instruments. The execution time and motor stress is substantially decreased with this new design. We have confidence that these results will be extended to surgical procedures.

Cab Conceptual Design for the Equipment System Used for Passenger Car Ergonomic Design and Evaluation

Ergonomics is an important validation content in vehicle product development. The traditional evaluation method of ergonomics adopts physical mockups or prototypes, which is very costly, and is inconvenient to modify, and usually cause prolonged development cycle-time. In this paper, in conjunction with enterprise’s requirements, an ergonomic validation equipment system, which has adjustable main parts, was developed. Firstly, requirements were analyzed, and target model cars ranges were determined, and ergonomic contents which can be validated using this equipment were clarified. The packaging characteristic of the passenger car was analyzed, and the reference fiducial marks system used for packaging design were determined. Based on the requirement of occupant accommodation, anthropometries of target population were statistically analyzed. By using revised SAE J1517 H-Point curves models, the drivers’ seating space was designed, as well as the requirement of the driver seat track travel. Based on the analysis of packaging data of passenger cars, and considering the possible changes, controls such as steering wheel, pedals, sticks, etc., were packaged.