S. Lee Hong, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN

Abstract: The entropy conservation framework describes the task-organism-environment system as a system where entropy remains a conserved quantity that is redistributed for the purposes of motor adaptation. In this paper, potential applications for the entropy conservation framework in the areas of ergonomics and human factors are presented. First, a brief overview of the concept of entropy conservation and explore its links to the extant literature will be provided. Following which, this paper will introduce theoretically-based methods of changing the properties of the task, environment, and organism to improve worker performance and reduce the occurrence of overuse injuries. Finally, methods of adapting the workplace to the aging organism will be explored. Overall the paper will provide a view that any changes in task, organism, or environment will result in a change to the entire system.

Keywords: entropy, conservation laws, ergonomics, information theory, human factors