Teleoperated mobile robot with two arms: the influence of a human-machine interface, VR training and operator age

The article presents a method of supporting work by using virtual reality techniques to control a two-armed mobile robot's movement. The robot developed for the study can carry a 20 kg load (10 kg in each arm), and its price is low enough to enable mass implementation in industry (e.g., in warehouses). The results of a study conducted with 81 participants (63 young and 18 older active workers), divided into five study groups, are discussed. Three main factors are considered: human-machine interface, training in virtual reality and operator's age. The operator's work effectiveness was examined. Subjective indicators, such as usability, acceptance of technology, or the operator's fatigue and stress level were also investigated. Our results indicate, among others, that interface without walking is considered the most useful, short VR training does not increase the operator's efficiency, and older operators are much less willing to accept this kind of technology. The robot's description and how it is controlled are presented in the paper.

Automated summary

The article introduces a method of using virtual reality techniques to control a two-armed mobile robot for supporting work. The study found that the operator's work efficiency is influenced by factors such as human-machine interface, VR training, and age.