Rhythm adaptation for human machine co-operation-"operation torque adaptation according to respiration rhythm in machine operation"

In order to realize human co-operative machinery, this study focuses on machine adaptation to humans. Machinery which adapts to human states and characteristics, are easy to use and human friendly, will enable humans to use the best of their abilities. Such systems are named HOMES (human oriented mechanical systems). The paper describes the role of human rhythms in machine operation concerning different skilled operators. First basic characteristics of operation and biological rhythms concerning different experienced operators are examined. High correlation between operation torque and respiration was observed in experienced operators. A system, which adapts to humans by generating torque rhythms according to respiration rhythms was constructed for improving friendliness of the system and performance. Experiments were carried out to examine the validity of the adaptation as assistance to inexperienced operators. The results show that the rhythm adaptation control is effective for improving both friendliness and performance in operators.