Ergonomic Principles in Designing Assistive Systems

This investigation highlights the crucial application of ergonomic principles in the design of assistive systems, as outlined by the DIN EN 92419 Standard. Assistive systems are defined as technical components (hardware) in combination with logic (software) aiming to support the user in executing an action and to optimize the external load. Here, “external load” is defined as external conditions and demands in a system which influence a person’s physical and/or mental internal load. It is important to note that while the external load is a constant presence, its perception varies significantly among individuals. This subjective experience underscores the need for ergonomically designed systems that can adapt to diverse user requirements. The paper a) underscores the DIN Standard's guidelines for ergonomically designing assistive systems, advocating for development principles that transcend specific technical solutions or interaction methodologies. It introduces foundational concepts and their applicability in crafting assistive systems, alongside b) a novel classification aimed at elucidating the support type such systems offer. This classification not only highlights different functionalities and support mechanisms of assistive systems but also facilitates a more nuanced approach to catering to individual user needs. Through discussing the varying degrees of support that these systems can provide—conceptualized via a functional level model—the research offers insights into their capabilities and limitations, thereby enabling the creation of more customized, user-centric assistive technologies. This paper c) provides a thorough overview of ergonomic design principles within the context of assistive systems, incorporating new developments and experiences in the field, and presents a framework for classifying the type of support provided by these systems. It aims to d) serve as a guide for researchers, designers, and developers, encouraging the application of DIN Standard principles to forge assistive systems that are both more effective and user-friendly.