The human aspect of automation: mind over automation

摘要

One of the most profound experiences I have had in my professional career came when Genesis Systems Group was developing a robotic arc welding system for a company to weld axles for tractor combines. Everything had been built, the systems were in place, and the programming and tooling completed. We brought in an operator to help generate enthusiasm for the project with other operators and the client. He strolled around the system for a few seconds, then asked, "Why are we welding this part upside down? We have no room on the floor for a rollover station. How are we supposed to operate this system?" No one stopped to ask this seemingly simple, but critical question. An operator offering that input 40 days earlier, would have saved us 60 additional days.