Levels of automation in manufacturing

• The objective of this paper is to increase the general understanding of task allocation in semi-automated systems and to provide a systematic approach for changing the level of automation. The paper presents a literature review of definitions and taxonomies for levels of automation (LoA) across multiple scientific and industrial domains. A synthesizing concept is suggested, including a LoA definition and taxonomy aimed for application in the manufacturing domain. Results suggest that the level of automation should be divided into two separate variables, i.e. physical/mechanical LoA and cognitive/information-related LoA. Further, the idea is that LoA in a manufacturing context can be described and assessed using seven-step reference scales for both physical and cognitive LoA.

Subject headings

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Maskinteknik -- Produktionsteknik, arbetsvetenskap och ergonomi (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Mechanical Engineering -- Production Engineering, Human Work Science and Ergonomics (hsv//eng)

Keyword

manufacturing

automation

allocation

taxonomy

Industrial engineering and economy

Industriell teknik och ekonomi

Manufacturing engineering

Produktionsteknik

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)