Enhancing Manufacturing Quality through Gamification

The Quality Engineering and Management Group hosted a seminar titled "Enhancing Manufacturing Quality through Gamification: An Exploratory Study in a Collaborative Assembly Process".

The seminar was presented by Matteo Capponi, a PhD candidate in our group, whose research on this topic earned him the Best Paper award at the International Conference on Quality Engineering and Management 2024 in Girona.

Seminar Highlights:

Gamification, commonly associated with digital entertainment and education, is now being explored in the manufacturing sector. This innovative approach involves applying game design elements to non-gaming contexts to boost engagement, productivity, and motivation among participants, particularly shop floor operators and workers.

Matteo Capponi's study investigated the potential of gamification in manufacturing, particularly in collaborative assembly processes where human workers and collaborative robots ("cobots") work together. His research aimed to adapt gamification principles to these processes to improve overall engagement and efficiency.

The seminar presented two preliminary case studies where the assembly process of a tile cutter was "gamified" using elements such as scoring systems, progress tracking, real-time feedback, and storytelling. These elements aimed to create a more engaging and rewarding experience for operators, similar to playing a game.

The research addressed two key questions: whether gamification principles can be effectively applied in manufacturing environments, and how these principles impact product and process quality. The findings suggested that gamification could lead to reduced errors and enhanced operational efficiency.

The presentation was well-received, sparking a lively discussion among attendees, including thesis students and researchers. Many expressed interest in further exploring gamification in their own work, recognizing its potential to improve manufacturing processes.