The effect of human autonomy and robot work pace on perceived workload in human-robot collaborative assembly work.

Collaborative robots (in short: cobots) have the potential to assist workers with physically or cognitive demanding tasks. However, it is crucial to recognize that such assistance can have both positive and negative effects on job quality. A key aspect of human-robot collaboration is the interdependence between human and robotic tasks.

Arm-support exoskeleton reduces shoulder muscle activity in ceiling construction.

The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and user's impression of an arm-support exoskeleton in complex and realistic ceiling construction tasks. 11 construction workers performed 9 tasks. We determined objective and subjective efficacy of the exoskeleton by measuring shoulder muscle activity and perceived exertion.

Field study on the use and acceptance of an arm support exoskeleton in plastering.

Exoskeleton use in day-to-day plastering may face several challenges. Not all plasterer's tasks comprise of movements that will be supported by the exoskeleton and might even be hindered. Furthermore, use in practice might be jeopardised by time pressure, colleagues being negative, discomfort, or any other hindrance of the exoskeleton.

What about the human in human robot collaboration?

In this review we address the human in human robot collaboration (HRC). Although there are different hypotheses on potential effects of HRC on job quality, defined as the quality of the working environment and its effect on the employee's well-being, a comprehensive theory is still lacking. How does HRC influence job quality on an individual level and how can we adapt HRC to boost positivity at work? We identified four job quality related factors that are of relevance in HRC: (1) Cognitive Workload, (2) Collaboration Fluency, (3) Trust, and (4) Acceptance and Satisfaction.