A comfort analysis of using smart glasses during "picking" and "putting" tasks

Abstract Logistics and operations managers are always evaluating ways to improve their order picking operations. While there are numerous picking studies, currently there is a void in research focused on improving productivity and efficiency for putting-type warehousing tasks such as receiving, storing, and shipping. Studies have shown that the logistics industry demonstrates significant improvement when using head mounted display solutions for order picking tasks. However, little research has been completed on the comfort of head mounted displays such as smart glasses and how to alter them to increase their product lifecycle. Altered Vuxiz® glasses are used in this work to study comfort, preference, and performance while executing common logistical order picking and shipment putting tasks. The impact of design type (weighted front, side, or back) was investigated using comfort rating scales. Device preference surveys, the participants adjustments made to the glasses and task performance were also captured. There was no significant difference in device preference regardless of task type. Despite the side weighted arrangement being the most comfortable, the participants still were uncomfortable. For companies considering investing in smart glasses, other alternatives should be considered to extend the lifecycle of head mounted display devices.