Developing the Human-Computer Interactions for an Industrial-Sized Vacuum
Efficiency—achieving a pristine clean with minimal human time and effort—is critical in the professional vacuuming space. Many factors get considered when it comes to efficiency: square footage, floor type, suction power, user training; but in order to truly be the best solution, the machine must balance all needs against the operational budget. And in today’s age, robots can help provide the perfect answer.
The Challenge:
Determine how an industry-leading, stand-on vacuum can be improved with a computer interface
The Outcome:
Use flow comparisons of human and robot activities, highlighting critical areas for efficiency improvement
The Impact:
Delivered optimized product specification requirements to the Development Team, decreased scope creep on >50% of key features
My Process:
Starting with the known.
Developing a step-by-step understanding of how users work with the current, manual machine and what challenges humans face when it comes to processes and environments
Networking with the experts.
Working with end users to understand ergonomics and feature requirements, supervisors to understand efficiency goals, and management to understand support needs
Defining the new normal.
Comparing and contrasting manual processes vs. robotic to mitigate risks, improve effectiveness, reduce user errors, and ultimately offer real-time, relevant information in the field