Advancing Task Allocation in Human-Robot Collaboration with a Multi-Simulation based Digital Twin System

Abstract

The rapid advancement of Industry 4.0 has revolutionized manufacturing by integrating digital technologies to create smarter, interconnected systems. A key component within this shift is Human-Robot Collaboration (HRC), where humans and robots operate synergistically, combining human adaptability with robotic precision to enhance productivity and safety. Despite the potential of HRC, challenges persist in enabling real-time, operator-driven task allocation due to limitations in data synchronization and accessible interfaces. This research addresses these gaps by developing a multi-simulation-based Digital Twin (DT) system designed to manage task allocation in HRC settings. Integrating ergonomic and productivity key performance indicators (KPIs), the system empowers operators through a user-friendly interface for task management. A case study in automotive brake assembly showcases improvements in cycle times and ergonomic safety through proper task distribution.