Exploring Engineers' Experiences with Human-Robot Interaction in Smart Factories: A Phenomenological Approach
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Abstract
The integration of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) in smart factories is reshaping traditional manufacturing processes, requiring significant adaptation from engineers and operators. While much research has focused on the technical aspects of automation, less attention has been given to the psychosocial dimensions of workers’ adaptation to robotic systems. Existing studies largely ignore how psychological and emotional responses impact the adaptation process, raising the question: How do engineers and operators experience and interpret their changing roles in automated environments?
A phenomenological approach is well-suited to answer this question, providing deep insights into the lived experiences of workers navigating the transition to robotic systems in smart factories. Using hermeneutic phenomenology, in-depth interviews were conducted with 15 engineers and operators, allowing exploration of cognitive and emotional challenges encountered during adaptation.
The findings reveal that workers undergo significant role transformations, grappling with emotional resistance and trust-building with robots, alongside developing new responsibilities in system optimization. These psychosocial shifts were key to understanding how workers adjust to automation beyond technical tasks, offering a richer perspective on their adaptation journey.
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