Design and research

 

When dealing with design projects in the maritime sector, optimising between people and technology is a key factor. ErgoS offers support in:

  • Task analysis
  • Task allocation: optimal work allocation between people and automation
  • 3D sight line studies
  • User participation to unify different opinions in an underpinned design
  • Control room layout design
  • Workplace design
  • Keypad design
  • Information presentation design

As an all-round ergonomics company, we deal with diverse ergonomic issues concerning physical load, sensory perception (like night vision), environmental factors or workload in 24-hour working situations. In all cases, the problem is mapped systematically and proper, practical, affordable and above all technically feasible solutions are provided. ErgoS is an independent company and not associated with specific suppliers.

 

3D Models

Operators have to deal with a combination of visual tasks like monitoring displays (inside) and shipping traffic (outside). Outside vision can be limited by frame styles, outdoor items, consoles or even colleagues. Therefore, a sight line analysis is very useful. For this, 3D models are created quickly and effectively in AutoCAD. The client can use our extensive collection of nautical items such as ships, waterways, buoys and bridges, so that a realistic and recognisable overview is created. It is possible to generate pictures, panoramas, and movies from every conceivable position and viewing angle. These are used to simulate the sight of the operator, but also for the precise determination of positions and view angles for camera images. Once imported, the 3D model lends itself perfectly for use in the design phase, for example to compare various materials and colour choices and in the detailing phase to visualise the result of a lighting plan.

 

Mock-up

For the detailed design of control workstations we recommend using a mock-up: a 1:1 scale model of the workplace. The mock-up is made by ErgoS using simple materials like wood and cardboard. We have a large nautical mock-up inventory, including buttons, levers, gauges, steering wheels, monitors, keyboards, and such. This allows us to quickly simulate a realistic environment. A mock-up is an extremely useful design tool. It gives a good impression of the look and feel of the final workplace.