ABSTRACT
Combined developments in technology and standards (such as the ISO 10218-2; ISO, 2011) have increased the potential for closer interaction between humans and robots in industry. Improved sensor and high speed computer processing capabilities will allow real time monitoring of the environment around automated equipment to remove the need for traditional fixed guarding and move towards true humanrobot collaboration (HRC). These developments mean it is almost inevitable that HRC will become particularly attractive as a means of improving work flow in high value manufacturing (HVM) systems. In recent work at Cranfield University a HRC demonstrator system has been developed for the aerospace manufacturing sector with integrated 3D vision monitoring and control safety systems as a safer alternative to traditional physical guarding (Walton, Webb and Poad, 2011). However, although much previous research has shown us that workforce reaction and acceptance of new technology is a significant determinant of success (Venkatesh and Davis, 2000) little is currently known about the human factors challenges of introducing such a radical manufacturing change.
