Clarification of Cognitive Skill in Mechanical Work and Its Application

Abstract

This article clarifies a difference in cognitive ability between highly skilled operators and less skilled ones in mechanical work, suggests a method to apply the results to develop effective support, and validates the method. First, a consciousness survey demonstrated that highly skilled operators operate machines taking advantage of visual, auditory, and force information. Second, using a simulation of a hydraulic excavator, it was learned that the amount of acquirable information is one of the elements included in cognitive skill. Finally, comparing these results with the effects of providing some kind of support, this study shows that diverse kinds of support, which are in accordance with the operator's skill level, are necessary for realizing effective support for cognitive ability.