An analysis of the user perception of an interface enabling recognition and designation of waste on a line in dynamic images

Abstract: Semi-automated processes are becoming more common within the field of waste management. They are often more efficient and improves the waste operators’ work environment in terms of security and health factors. The French company Veolia, engaged in waste management, has for these reasons developed the Tri Télé-Opéré (TTO) - a system where the direct contact between operator and waste is removed, and the waste is separated via a touch screen. The waste line is currently shown with a series of images in the system. This explorative study investigated how a representation of the line was perceived when using dynamic images on the screen. Diverse sequences with various parameters (viewpoint, direction and pace) were studied in order to observe how they supported the recognition and designation of the operators working with the system. Qualitative results from user tests performed with both novices and waste operators identified parameters that should be considered when using dynamic images of the waste line. The study shows that assembled images captured with an angle of 90°, shown in a slideshow mode are preferred. The viewpoint should furthermore be clear and detailed and the information should be displayed in a direction that corresponds to the long side of the screen, while having a size that make use of the screen surface. Moreover, the results suggest that the pace of the waste line could be increased if parameters allowing good recognition are used simultaneously. This study provides a first insight in how users perceive the TTO with dynamic images and which parameters that could facilitate the work. It is furthermore believed that a further development of this representation of information could ameliorate the future work situation for the waste operators, and thus also the efficiency of the sorting process.