ISO 9241-910 User Performance Evaluation in Human–Robot Tasks
The ISO 9241 standard is widely recognized for providing a framework to ensure that user interfaces are accessible, usable and safe. Among its many parts, ISO 9241-910 specifically addresses the evaluation of human performance in tasks involving interaction with robots. This standard is essential for industries where human–robot collaboration (HRC) is critical, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and service robotics.
The primary objective of ISO 9241-910 is to provide a methodology for evaluating user performance during these interactions. It focuses on the efficiency, effectiveness, and satisfaction of users when performing tasks in conjunction with robots. This includes not only physical interaction but also cognitive processes such as decision-making and situational awareness.
The standard aims to ensure that any robotic system designed for human–robot collaboration is safe and meets user expectations. By following ISO 9241-910, manufacturers can enhance the usability of their products, thereby improving productivity and reducing errors in complex HRC environments.
Testing under this standard involves a rigorous evaluation process that includes various metrics to gauge performance. These metrics are crucial for understanding how users interact with robots and identifying areas for improvement. Some key aspects include:
- User efficiency: The time taken to complete tasks and the number of errors made.
- User effectiveness: The accuracy with which tasks are performed.
- User satisfaction: Perceived ease and enjoyment of using the system.
These metrics help in designing systems that not only function correctly but also meet user expectations. By adhering to ISO 9241-910, organizations can ensure their robotic products are robust, safe, and user-friendly, thereby enhancing overall productivity and safety in HRC environments.
Scope and Methodology
The scope of the ISO 9241-910 standard is to provide a methodology for evaluating human performance in tasks involving interaction with robots. This includes both physical interactions, such as operating robotic arms or manipulating robotic tools, and cognitive processes involved in decision-making and situational awareness.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| User Efficiency | The time taken to complete tasks and the number of errors made. This helps in identifying areas where users may struggle or take longer than necessary to perform tasks. |
| User Effectiveness | The accuracy with which tasks are performed, ensuring that robotic systems meet user expectations without causing harm. |
| User Satisfaction | Perceived ease and enjoyment of using the system. This metric is crucial for improving user experience and reducing stress during HRC interactions. |
The methodology outlined in ISO 9241-910 involves several steps, including task design, participant selection, performance measurement, data collection, and analysis. Each step ensures that the evaluation is comprehensive and provides accurate insights into user performance.
Task design plays a crucial role in ensuring that the tasks used for testing are representative of real-world scenarios. Participants must be carefully selected to reflect the target user population, which can include engineers, healthcare professionals, or service robotics users. Performance measurement involves observing and recording user actions during task execution. Data collection is followed by rigorous analysis to determine performance metrics.
By adhering to these steps, organizations can ensure that their robotic systems are safe and effective in real-world applications. This standard provides a robust framework for evaluating human–robot interaction tasks, ensuring that users have the best possible experience when working with robots.
International Acceptance and Recognition
The ISO 9241-910 standard is widely accepted and recognized across various industries due to its comprehensive approach to evaluating human–robot interaction tasks. It has been adopted by numerous organizations worldwide, including international standards bodies and leading robotics manufacturers.
Adherence to this standard ensures that robotic systems are evaluated consistently and objectively, which is crucial for maintaining high standards of safety and usability in HRC environments. Organizations that comply with ISO 9241-910 can demonstrate their commitment to quality and safety, thereby enhancing their reputation and gaining a competitive edge.
Recognized by organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this standard is also supported by leading industry bodies. By following ISO 9241-910, manufacturers can ensure their products meet international standards of safety and usability.
The adoption of this standard has led to significant improvements in the design and implementation of robotic systems that are safe, efficient, and user-friendly. It has also contributed to the development of safer work environments for human–robot collaboration, ensuring that users are not placed at risk while performing tasks with robots.
Use Cases and Application Examples
- Manufacturing: ISO 9241-910 can be used to evaluate the efficiency of workers interacting with robotic arms in assembly lines. This helps manufacturers identify areas for improvement in task design and worker training.
- Healthcare: In healthcare settings, this standard can be applied to evaluate the usability of robotic systems that assist doctors or nurses during surgeries or patient care tasks.
- Service Robotics: For service robots used in hospitality or retail settings, ISO 9241-910 helps ensure that interactions are smooth and user-friendly, enhancing customer satisfaction.
In each of these use cases, the standard provides a framework for evaluating how users interact with robotic systems. This ensures that the design of these systems is optimized for safety, efficiency, and effectiveness, leading to improved performance in real-world applications.
By following ISO 9241-910, organizations can ensure their robotic products are safe, efficient, and user-friendly, thereby enhancing overall productivity and safety in HRC environments. This standard provides a robust framework for evaluating human–robot interaction tasks, ensuring that users have the best possible experience when working with robots.
