Business from technology

Automation and human-technology interaction

Competence

VTT applies the principles of systems research in diverse areas of technology. In particular, we have expertise in industrial automation, information technology, human factors, and human-technology interaction in the fields of process industry, nuclear power, metals and engineering industry, maritime applications, and urban built environments.

Our interdisciplinary research approach combines competences from automation, systems engineering, psychology, and cognitive ergonomics. Methods are developed and applied for the verification and validation (V&V) of safety critical automation systems (I&C). Human factors research supports the development of work processes and human-system interfaces by analysing human behaviour and decision-making in natural work environments. We also evaluate the usability and user experience of complex products and applications.

Challenges

The design and management of large-scale systems is a challenge due to the increasing demands for safety, productivity, environmental friendliness, and short time-to-market. The complexity of the systems, the increasing level of automation, and the introduction of distributed and mobile technologies require a systematic approach that is able to integrate the technical, psychological, and organisational aspects of systems development.

Solutions

Human activity and systems usability

• Studies of human activity and teamwork in real environments
  
• Cognitive work analysis and core-task analysis
  
• Development of human-system interfaces and work practices
  
• Systems usability evaluation and activity-centred design
  
• Concept and user experience design.
  

Automation design and verification

• Evaluation of risks and safety of automation systems (I&C)
  
• Formal methods for the verification of critical systems
  
• Methods and practices for requirements definition and management.
  

Benefits

• Increase in safety, reliability, productivity, and cost-efficiency of industrial systems
  
• More efficient design of complex systems
  
• Better concepts of operations
  
• Better working conditions.
  

References and merits

• 1 research professor, 2 docents, quarter of the staff hold a doctoral degree
  
• 150 scientific publications during 2006-–2012
  
• Finnish representative in OECD/NEA WGHOF (Nuclear Energy Agency, Workgroup on Human and Organisational Factors) and IAEA TWG-NPPIC (Technical Working Group on Nuclear Power Plant Instrumentation and Control
  
• Active collaboration with the OECD Halden Reactor Project