Human factors considerations in C.I.M.

This paper provides an overview of the human factors component of the ESPRIT project 534, and is an introduction to the self-interest group (no. III) on human factors in CIM. Project 534 is concerned with the development of an automated flexible assembly cell, and has been underway since January (1985). This presentation stresses the need for human factors in the design and development of CIM systems and draws upon examples of previous work by the Social and Applied Psychology Unit. The background to the project, the human factors approach taken, and the progress to the project, the human factors approach taken, and the progress to date are summarised. Some of the problems to be addressed in the context of 534, and CIM generally, are described.