The Role of Human Factors in the Evaluation of Automated Riveting Systems

The role of Human Factors analysts in the evaluation and optimization of the large panel automated riveting process is defined. In addition, Human Factors support of a panelization upgrade at Boeing Commercial Airplane Group, Wichita Division is discussed.

Human Factors analysts view production process quality and manufacturing productivity from a unique perspective. At Boeing, continuous process improvement is a comprehensive goal. The mission of Human Factors is to maximize the task effectiveness of the human operator or maintainer as they interface with the technology of the manufacturing process. A human factors productivity equation is stated, and a five step solution to the equation is discussed.

At this time, the Human Factors assessment of large panel riveting is at step one, defining the AS IS process.