On a human–robot workplace design and task allocation system. Issue 12 (2nd December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tsarouchi, Panagiota; Michalos, George; Makris, Sotiris; Athanasatos, Thanasis; Dimoulas, Konstantinos; Chryssolouris, George
• Is Part Of: International journal of computer integrated manufacturing. Volume 30:Issue 12(2017)
• Page Start: 1272
• Page End: 1279
• Publication Date: 2017-12-02
• Subjects: Cell scheduling -- ergonomics -- multi-criteria decision-making -- hybrid assembly system -- simulation; Computer integrated manufacturing systems -- Periodicals; 670.427
• DOI: 10.1080/0951192X.2017.1307524
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0951-192X

Abstract

Abstract : This paper proposes a method for human–robot (HR) task planning, considering at the same time, the design of the workplace. A model for the representation of humans and robots as a team of active resources is proposed, while equipment such as working tables and fixtures are considered passive resources. The HR workload is structured in a three-level model. A multi-criteria decision-making framework is used for the formulation of alternative layouts and task allocations. Both analytical models and simulation are used for the estimation of the criteria values, allowing for the evaluation of the different alternatives. A software prototype has been implemented and tested in white goods and in automotive industry cases, demonstrating that the tool can identify good quality solutions in a short time frame.