Title: Automation vs. human intervention: What is the best mix for optimum system performance? A case study

Authors: Joel M. Haight, Ralph G. Caringi

Addresses: Department of Energy and Geo-Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, 224 Hosler Building, University Park, 16802 5000 PA, USA. ' Avery Dennison Performance Polymers, 171 Draketown Road, Mill Hall, 17751 PA, USA

Abstract: Today|s industrial systems are becoming increasingly complex and automated. The goal: to improve efficiency, increase production, improve reliability, achieve consistent specifications and reduce incidents. However, to determine optimum system performance, one must evaluate the system over time, include the human operator as a component and evaluate performance using risk-based approaches to understand overall system performance affect. Many variables must be considered, deep-seated biases overcome and perceptions of risk and error accounted for. This paper details a risk-based analysis, using a modified FMEA approach, of an automation project to determine the appropriate level of human input to the control system.

Keywords: automation; human errors; automatic control systems; human intervention; optimisation; system performance; performance evaluation; risk assessment; modified FMEA; failure mode and effects analysis; human input.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRAM.2007.014095

International Journal of Risk Assessment and Management, 2007 Vol.7 No.5, pp.708 - 721

Published online: 18 Jun 2007 *

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