UCF researchers report 'unexpected' science news

While robotic arms may be able to simplify many tasks, unexpected science news from the University of Central Florida (UCF) indicates that over-simplification may not be welcomed by users.

A team of researchers at the academic institution worked hard to perfect robotic arm technology, making it as easy as possible for tasks to be carried out using the system.

But the science news from UCF reveals that their efforts may have been in vain, as end-users often prefer the manual mode, which makes it harder to achieve the same end result.

In tests, most subjects opted for typing in instructions for the arm to follow, or giving verbal directions that need forward planning.

John Bricout, a collaborator on the project, suggests that the findings show humans can become bored if they do not feel challenged.

Dr Bricout gained his PhD in social work in 1998 from Virginia Commonwealth University, having previously studied history and French at BA level and psychology at MA.