Using virtual reality to optimize human factors of informational systems for industrial machinery

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Enhancing visibility for the operators of heavy equipment remains a critical goal in several industries. Proximity detection systems that range in complexity from closed-circuit television screens to audio-visual hazard indicators and RFID tagged systems have been used on a variety of heavy equipment. Many light passenger vehicles now come equipped with back-up video monitors to aid the operator during revering procedures. The main goal of these systems is to improve the situational awareness of the operator and improve obstacle detection around the machine for the operator. The mining and construction industries continue to report high levels of fatalities on heavy equipment, and these incidents have frequently been linked to visibility issues. Proximity detection systems have the potential to improve situational awareness for operators of heavy equipment if implemented correctly. To date, heavy industry has not yet adopted a standard for proximity detection systems although several manufacturers are marketing systems with an aim to reduce fatal interactions. The proper human factors design for these systems is critical for improving situational awareness, without adding the additional hazard of distracted driving. There is currently insufficient research to confidently recommend a system tailored to heavy industrial equipment. The proposed project will determine the optimal characteristics of a proximity detection system for industries like mining, which has the difficulty of being a low light and high-glare environment, or the busy, accessible worksites of urban construction. In addition, the informational display competes for the operator's attention, and must be optimally integrated into a tight cabin space using principles of ergonomics. At the culmination of this research program, the work will have identified the components of a proximity detection system that will provide obstacle detection capability in an ergonomic design that does not increase physical or cognitive workload for the operators of heavy equipment.