An assessment methodology and its application to a robotic vocational assistive device

This paper presents the results of a collaborative research project which developed and applied an assessment methodology for determining whether a robotic assistive work device would significantly decrease the number of times an able-bodied co-worker or attendant was required to provide assistance. The assessment methodology developed in this project may be useful for future evaluations of this technology. The results showed that a significant reduction in attendant time per unit of work does occur when using the device. A decrease in productivity, however, also occurred when the device was used. Further investigation of this decrease in productivity and quantitative data on the cost of disrupting a co-worker is required before any firm conclusion can be made regarding the effectiveness of the device.