Setup for control, modelling, and algorithm testing of variable stiffness actuators (VSAs)

A modular neuroergonomic workstation for human-centered, collaborative manual assembly. The setup combines portable EEG-based mental workload assessment (BrainWatch), a nonintrusive hand-gesture interface (Leap Motion–based M2O2P-L), an adaptive graphical instruction system (ADIN), and a collaborative robot assistant (Franka Emika Panda) that delivers the right parts at the right time. All modules are integrated through FIWARE middleware (Orion Context Broker) and can be extended with a smart task scheduler for workload-aware task allocation. The concept was validated as a proof-of-concept in a real factory environment for assembly of fiscal devices, showing fewer errors and lower mental demand with cobot-supported assembly, while maintaining comparable cycle times. The workstation is designed for easy deployment and reconfiguration across assembly variants, supporting onboarding of new workers and improving well-being and productivity in Industry 5.0 contexts.