Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering (archive)

Research Focus Areas

Ergonomics and Human Factors

Ergonomics and human factors is concerned with understanding the capabilities and limitations of human beings and using that knowledge to design things that people use. Historically Human Factors has focused more on the cognitive aspects of design (e.g. human computer interaction) while Ergonomics is more focused on the physical aspects (e.g. prevention of back injury or carpal tunnel syndrome). At ISU we cover both areas in our teaching and research activities.

In the Physical Ergonomics Laboratory, Gary Mirka’s group conducts both basic and applied research with the specific aim of reducing the incidence of occupational injury in working populations. In the field we use video analysis techniques to estimate the biomechanical stresses on the workers as they perform their work tasks. In the laboratory we use precision bio-instrumentation to further explore the relationship between task and loading on the body.



In the Human Performance and Cognitive Engineering Laboratory. Rick Stone and his students conduct both basic and applied research in a number of diverse areas. The core research focus is in the area of human performance enhancement in both cognitive and physical domains. We employ multiple approaches toward this goal, including cognitive and physiological engineering, classical and experimental ergonomics, augmented reality, and the incorporation and application of new technologies. Following an in depth analysis we often develop new methods, designs techniques, tools and or technology to improve human performance and/or reduce errors.