bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Test of the Quality Circle Approach to Problem Solving
Authors: Henry Robert F. , Malmstrom Frederick V.
Published: January 2012

Sixty employees from a large government installation were surveyed on the question, “How I solve problems and insure quality in my work environment.” Thirty of the participants were active members of Quality Circle (QC) groups, and thirty had never been members. The narrative responses were scored on references to (1) problem avoidance/identification, (2) problem resolution, and (3) individual responsibility/authority. Contrary to expectations, nearly every statistical test showed the QC members to exhibit less problem recognition, less individual initiative, and less willingness to accept authority than those employees who had never joined a QC group. The discussion emphasizes the continuing need for a method of evaluation of the claims of certain organizational development programs.
The Psychophysics of Workload — A Second Look at the Relationship between Subjective Measures and Performance
Authors: Gopher Daniel , Chillag Nella , Arzi Nira
Published: January 2012

Load estimates based upon subjective and performance indices were compared for subjects performing size matching and letter typing tasks under 6 levels of priorities, in single and dual task conditions. Each half of the group used a different task as reference in their subjecitve judgement. The results are interpreted to indicate that subjective measures are especially sensitive to voluntary allocation of attention and to the load on working memory. Association with performance is expected whenever these two factors are main determinants of peformance efficiency, otherwise the two are likely to dissociate.
Perceived Effectiveness of Environmental Warnings
Authors: Wogalter Michael S. , Desaulniers David R. , Godfrey Sandra S.
Published: January 2012

This study examined perceived effectiveness of warning signs for various hazard situations. Four-statement signs contained a signal word, a hazard statement, a consequence statement, and an instruction statement. Four additional three-statement signs, each with a different statement systematically removed from the four-statement sign, were used, for a total of 5 signs for each hazard situation. The results of Experiments 1 and 2 indicated that removing content statements reduced perceived effectiveness. Hazard and instruction statements were the most important statements, showing the greatest decrease in effectiveness when deleted. Signs for the most hazardous situations were perceived as the most effective warnings. Experiment 3 examined redundancy of statements in a sign. The results suggested that the deletion of redundant statements, particularly signal words, had less influence on effectiveness. The hazard statement showed the lowest redundancy consistant with it producing the greatest effectiveness decrement when deleted.
Toward a Skill Eased Training Technology: Review, Evaluation, and Application of Automatic/Controlled Processing Training Guidelines
Authors: Myers Greta L. , Fisk Arthur D.
Published: January 2012

In the present paper it is argued that there are two major purposes of instruction for skill acquisition. The first is to insure that the consistent components of the skill are identified by the trainee. The second purpose is to provide many correct executions of (or exposures to) these consistent components. A brief review of the laboratory research supporting the above statements is provided. The concept of consistent component training is described, and a preliminary application of the non-laboratory approach is outlined. Guidelines are discussed for specifying consistent trainable components of a skill or task.
Training Effects on Response Strategies in a Perceptual Motor Task
Authors: Byrne Jani Gabriel , Anderson Nancy S.
Published: January 2012

This study examined the influence of training on individual differences in time-sharing response strategies for a dual-task. Using early performance measures in a dual-task, subjects were classified on Day 1 as performing in either a simultaneous, alternating, or massed fashion. On Day 2, subjects received training instructions to either upgrade or maintain their particular response strategy. The results indicated that training was successful in the majority of the cases. Close inspection of performance revealed that subjects who were not able to achieve simultaneity had learned the dual-task response pattern, but were responding too slowly.
Manual Dexterity Evaluation of Gloves Used in Handling Hazardous Materials
Authors: Plummer Ralph , Stobbe Terry , Ronk Richard , Myers Warren , Kim Hyunwook , Jaraiedi Majid
Published: January 2012

The problems associated with hazardous materials control are numerous and complex. One of these problems involves selecting hand protection which will resist permeation for the duration of the exposure while maintaining sufficient levels of dexterity and tactility so that the worker can safely and efficiently perform the required task.

This study investigated the effect of nine glove combinations on manual dexterity. These included three single glove and six double glove combinations plus the bare hand condition. The subjects performed a nut-bolt-washer assembly-dissassembly task using the Bennett Hand Tool Dexterity Test apparatus. The task required the use of a screw driver, two sizes of open-end wrenches, and an adjustable wrench, along with handling the bolt, nut, and washer while performing the assembly-disassembly task for three different bolt, nut, and washer sizes (1/2″, 5/16″, 1/4″).

The response variables measured in the experiment were the time to complete each task and number of errors committed during each task. An error was defined as a drop of any of the items handled. The data was analyzed using a fixed effects randomized ANOVA model and the Duncan's Multiple Range Test. An alpha level of 5 per cent was used in the analysis. The results of the analyses showed that gloves increased the average completion time by 15 to 37%. Several double gloving combinations had significantly longer task completion times compared to single gloves.
The Assessment of the Ability of Various Heat Stress Indices to Predict Safe Work Behavior
Authors: Chai Chi-ping Peter , Ramsey Jerry D.
Published: January 2012

Six major heat stress indices are evaluated through this paper by the efficiencies at predicting workers' safety behavior. Actual temperature and safety sampling data were taken in two industrial plants for a five month period (July through November). Those data were converted to computer and analyzed in different models. HSI (Heat Stress Index) appears to be the best predictor because of its including the factor of metabolic work load. NET (New Effective Temperature) seems to be the best one among the pure thermal indices. WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) and DB (Dry Bulb Temperature) are two easily obtained thermal indices for predicting human safety behaviors.
Modeling Expert Computer Users to Aid Inexperienced Computer Users
Authors: Elkerton Jay
Published: January 2012

The research described represents an ongoing effort devoted to the development of systematic methodologies for the construction of expert models that can be used to assist and instruct the inexperienced computer user. Two methodologies are described: one based on sorting and clustering procedures aimed at describing the subjective characteristics of the task or target materials, and one based on performance protocols for assessing the command selection strategies of users. The methodology for assessing subjective characteristics of the target materials yielded a consistent set of 10 target clusters from experienced and novice subjects that could be mapped directly into the database of the file selection and search task. Based on preliminary data, these more homogeneous search categories were shown to be useful for constructing frequency, sequence, and plan-based models of expert command selection that will be used to aid inexperienced computer users.
Some Perspectives on Participatory Ergonomics in High Technology Organizations
Authors: Brown Ogden
Published: January 2012

Foreign competition, a changing work force, societal and technological changes all serve to create an environment of change. Accordingly, concerns about improved human resource productivity have emerged. An increasing number of new management practices emphasize more participative approaches. Local plants of three high technology organizations were examined to determine management practices, policies, and programs. Each was found to employ participative techniques in the reaching of decisions which affect the employee in his or her daily work. An atmosphere of trust and mutual respect was common across the three organizations. Impacts of technological change were discussed with officials, and in each firm participative management systems were successfully employed in terms of organizational effectiveness and quality of work life.
Perceptual and Cognitive Aspects of Three-Dimensional Rotations for Computer Aided Design (CAD) Systems
Authors: Barfleld Woodrow , Salvendy Gavrlel
Published: January 2012

The purpose of the research reported here Is to investigate human spatial and cognitive abilities for a computer aided design (CAD) rotation task. This goal Is accomplished by experimentally testing the two main competing theories, analogue versus propositional, which describe how perceptual Information Is represented In memory. The hypotheses are tested using a full factorial design with three levels of figure complexity, three axes of rotation (X, Y, Z) and four angles of rotation (0, 60, 120, 180 degrees) for a reaction time rotation task. In addition, the frequency of axis and angle errors are collected to provide a better understanding of human errors In CAD. Results revealed a significant effect for angle of rotation for reaction time but no significant effect for figure complexity thus providing support for the analogue theory.
Getting Lost: A Case Study in Interface Design
Authors: Elm William C. , Woods David D.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes an application of principles of spatial data management to correct for an information handling problem, the “getting lost” phenomena in a large multiple display network. The application is the computerization (e.g., electronic book) of a book of procedures for use by nuclear power plant operators during accident conditions.
An Alternative to Reduce the Physical Stress of VDT Operators
Authors: Lee Kwan S. , Oh Yeon G.
Published: January 2012

A Study has been conducted to compare the effectiveness between improvement of furniture design (ergonomic design) and physical exercise in reducing musculoskeletal stress of the VDT (Video Display Terminal) operators. As an objective measurement, electromyograms (EMG) were measured from the neck, the left and right trapezius, L2/L3 region of back, triceps, flexor carp radialis and extensor carpi ulnaris. Subiective questionnaires were also used. Each of the five subjects was tested for two days (8 hours/day) in two different work stations which are an ergonomically designed work station and a traditionally designed work station using non-ergonomic devices. It was found that the physical exercises could reduce musculoskeletal stress as effectively as the ergonomic design.
The Use of Brain Evoked Response in a Critical Event Detection Task
Authors: Wilson Glenn F. , Ward Sharon L. , Hann Reuban L.
Published: January 2012

Brain evoked potentials (EP) were used to study subject responses to “critical events” (CEs) which were part of a series of stimuli. Both reaction times (RT) and EPs were influenced by the appearance of the CE. Longer RTs and a large late positive component of the EP were associated with the trials containing the CE stimuli. Intermediate RTs and late positive components of the EPs were found in a condition in which the stimulus preceding the CE gave information about the following CE and was also similar in appearance. While this is a laboratory test, it is similar in many ways to actual situations confronted by human factors specialists. EPs appear, then, to be useful tools in the system design and evaluation process.
Psychological Factors Influencing Response Preferences Using Speech Technology as an “On-Line Interviewer”
Authors: Dintruff Diane L. , Luttinger Hilary J. , Neuman Joel H. , Wang Tsai-Guey
Published: January 2012

Users may not always desire natural language exchange with speech-capable systems. Regression and analysis of variance techniques were used to examine the choice of words vs. numbers as preferred speech input mode in response to items on two psychological tests presented by computerized voice output. Psychological factors were found to relate to response preference. This exploratory analysis suggests that additional designed experimentation assessing the psychological aspects of speech technology would prove interesting.
A Method of Analyzing Personal Computer Use in an Application Environment
Authors: Kennedy Peter J. , Lewis James R.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes a program for the IBM Personal Computer (PC) which runs in the background to record and time-stamp keystrokes as operators use real PC applications. The value of the program as a human factors research tool is discussed. In addition to this, an example of a study using the program to estimate the frequency of acquisition of the Backspace and Enter keys in PC applications and a comparison of two IBM keyboards are described.
Voice and Manual Control in Dual Task Situations
Authors: Wickens Christopher D. , Zenyuh John , Culp Victor , Marshak William
Published: January 2012

This paper describes various influences of compatibility and task-resource competition that affect time-sharing a verbal and a manual control task, with either manual or voice control. In the reported experiment subjects performed a 2-dimensional discrete tracking task concurrently with a Sternberg memory search task. Each task was controlled either by voice, the left hand, or the right hand. The major influence on performance was the advantage for conditions in which the Sternberg task was voice-controlled and tracking was manually controlled. Voice-controlled tracking produced incompatibility, while bimanual control produced resource competition. Smaller, but still reliable effects were observed for hemispherically-compatible assignments (left-handed tracking).
Toward a Methodology for the Design of Warnings
Authors: Robinson Gordon H.
Published: January 2012

The systems nature of the warning design problem is explored in an attempt to uncover the complexities of this design effort that are often inadequately considered. Documentation of a complete design effort will be a necessary defense in litigation claiming “failure to warn”, particularly when the decision is to have no warning.
The Cai Evaluation Checklist: Guidelines for the Design of Computer-Aided Instruction
Authors: Hamel Cheryl J.
Published: January 2012

Human factors design guidelines for the development of computer-aided instruction are presented. The guidelines focus on the student-computer interaction and are organized around five human factors design principles for computer systems: brevity, consistency, flexibility, responsiveness, and compatibility.
Naming Colors on a CRT Display in Simulated Daylight
Authors: Moffitt Kirk , Rogers Steven P. , Cicinelli Joseph
Published: January 2012

The use of color CRT displays in daylight conditions is accompanied by problems of visibility and discriminability. A simulator was constructed, and six experiments were conducted to measure color-naming performance for CRT-displayed symbols. The effects of display and daylight luminance, and symbol chromaticity, size, and shape were studied. A reciprocal relationship was found between display and daylight luminance, and models of visual performance were constructed. In addition, color metrics based on the CIE 1976 L* u* v* space were found to be inconsistent predictors of performance. This finding was attributed to the dependency of these measures on symbol size and chromaticity. Finally, complex interactions involving symbol chromaticity and shape were discovered, suggesting that simplistic analytical models may not be viable substitutes for empirical research.
The Orbison Visual Illusion and Radar Scopes
Authors: Rose Paul N.
Published: January 2012

In the Orbison visual illusion, the sides of a square, although straight, appear to be bowed when the square is superimposed over a set of concentric circles. In the present study, the illusion is demonstrated for moving objects. Male and female college students watched carets move either across a background of four concentric circles or across a plain background. The carets moved across the top or along the left side of the scene. A number of situations were assessed. It was found that subjects do make errors that can be attributed to the Orbison illusion.
Office Ergonomics: Design Methodology and Evaluation
Authors: Stubler William F. , Bernard Thomas F.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a methodology for developing work environments for white–collar workers based on an analysis of their high value work activities and environmental needs. The methodology utilizes user–oriented data collection techniaues such as structured group meetings and interviews to reduce the need for extensive task analyses, A pilot study was conducted with a group of Computer Systems Analysts, User Support Specialists, and consultants using this methodology. The results of an evaluation program that measured changes brought about by the design are discussed. Benefits realized from the design include improved ability to concentrate, decreased pain/stiffness in extremities, more efficient workplace layout, reduced distractions and increased user satisfaction.
Task Lighting at a VDT Workstation
Authors: Konz Stephan , Bennett Corwin , Miller Bryan
Published: January 2012

Two experiments on task lighting at a VDT workstation are described. In Exp. 1, 16 subjects entered random letters for 40 min in a general lighting condition and two task lighting conditions. The results for task lighting, although not statistically significantly better than general lighting, were promising so a second experiment was done.

In Exp. 2, general ceiling lighting was the control condition; there were 4 task lighting conditions. Eight subjects entered random letters for 16 h. Words/min did not differ significantly among the five conditions. Comfort was evaluated for the eyes, neck, back, hand-wrist and seat. Comfort did not vary significantly among conditions for the neck, back, hand-wrist or seat; it did vary for eyes. Subjective evaluation varied significantly for each of the 32 adjectives; ceiling lighting was preferred over task lighting and some task lighting conditions were preferred over others. The single adjective scale is recommended as being more sensitive than the typical paired semantic–differential scale.
Three-Dimensional Summarization of Face Shape
Authors: Zehner Gregory F.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes the first year's progress in a three–year U.S. Air Force research project aimed at defining and summarizing the shape of the human face. These types of data are needed to enhance the fit and performance of protective equipment designed for the human body. Described are three–dimensional laser measuring systems, subject alignment and coordinate reference systems, angular statistical methods for summarizing points in space, principal component analysis of head cross sections, and data display and computer graphics development.
Computer Graphics and Shape Diagnostics
Authors: Beecher Robert M.
Published: January 2012

The availability of stereophotometrically recorded human body data will permit us to better characterize three-dimensional shape, and to develop statistical techniques to take advantage of these mathematical characterizations. We have used whole-body data sets to simulate surface shape changes during body movements, and to provide surface contours for the design of anthropomorphic crash test manikins. Higher density face data are currently being used for surface contour comparisons, landmark spatial distribution analyses, and subregion delineations.
Three–Dimensional Computer Models of Man
Authors: Rothwell Patricia L. , Hickey Dianne T.
Published: January 2012

To assess the merit of using computer-aided design to model man in three dimensions, many potential problems and advantages must be considered. This paper addresses two related issues. First, it outlines several problems associated with obtaining information on the topic and second, it suggests several ways in which computer man-modelling is superior to traditional workplace design methods.
Safety Aspects of Sophisticated In-Vehicle Information Displays and Controls
Authors: Zwahlen Helmut T. , DeBald David P.
Published: January 2012

Two groups of six young and healthy subjects were used in this study to investigate the lateral path deviations when driving in a straight path with the eyes fixated on the road ahead, when driving while reading information inside of the automobile, and when driving with the eyes closed. Each group of subjects drove a typical large car and a typical small car at a fixed speed of 30 mph. An unused 2000 foot long and 75 foot wide, level, concrete airport runway was used to conduct the experiment. Each subject made three runs under each of the three conditions with the large car and with the small car (18 runs total). The lateral path deviations from the longitudinal centerline of the car to the centerline of the runway were measured every 15 feet for a distance of 705 feet. A device which dripped liquid dye was attached to the center of the rear bumper of the automobiles to indicate their paths.

The results of this study show that the average lateral standard deviations for driving with the eyes fixated upon the road ahead were between 5.5″ and 11.3″. The difference in the lateral standard deviations for large and small automobiles was statistically not significant for distances between 100 and 500 feet from the starting point for the three conditions tested. The lateral standard deviation was smaller for reading text within the automobile than for driving with the eyes closed, and was statistically significant after an occlusion distance of 225 feet or an occlusion time of about 5 seconds.

Using a constant of 0.041, the fundamental relationship between the lateral standard deviation, the speed, and the occlusion distance developed by Zwahlen and Balasubramanian (1974) fits the data for reading text inside of the automobile while driving fairly well. This constant is approximately one half of that which has been used for driving with the eyes closed (0.076) in this study.

Based upon the results of this study, the development and introduction of sophisticated in-vehicle displays and/or touch panels should be halted and their safety aspects with regard to information aquisition, information processing, and driver control actions should be critically evaluated.
The Development and Evaluation of a Moving Target Engagement Training Program with the M16A1 Rifle
Authors: Hunt Jon P. , Evans Kenneth L.
Published: January 2012

This proposal reports the findings of one of a series of eight experiments concerned with improving the soldier's ability to engage moving personnel targets. This overall research effort examined the effect of different modes of fire, additional ammunition, methods of target engagement, the use of an intermediate live-fire exercise, and the use of device-based training on moving target engagement. Current U.S. Army training for Infantrymen includes one day of instruction in moving target engagement. This experiment describes a modified training program with special training devices conducted over a two-day period.
Estimating Detection Probabilities Fdr Search and Rescue
Authors: Stager Paul , Hameluck Donald
Published: January 2012

In planning visual search, operations, the allocation of Search and Rescue (SAR) resources may be dependent on the statistical probability that a missing aircraft or crash site can be detected if it is within given geographical areas. The present study was undertaken in order to relate probability of detection (POD) to the relevant environmental or contextual variables. Multidimensional scaling (MDS) and cluster analysis were used to determine the basic stimulus dimensions and characteristics that define different categories of search area. A simulated visual search task generated POD data for representative aerial views that contained synthetic crash sites. POD was a function of target contrast and terrain exposure. Limited field trials have indicated that data from the static visual displays were capable of providing reasonable estimates of detection in dynamic visual search.
Peripheral Detection of Reflectorized License Plates
Authors: Zwahlen Helmut T.
Published: January 2012

This paper contains data on the peripheral detection distances of a reflectorized license plate (24 CIL) at night. Detection distances were obtained for two car heading angles (-3 degrees to the left and 10 degrees to the right), and seven detection angles (-30, −20, −10, 0, 10, 20, and 30 degrees) using two groups of 7 young and healthy drivers each. The order of presentation for the 7 detection angles was random and balanced. Each driver sat in a stationary car on a 2000 feet long runway and detected an approaching target under low beam conditions against a background containing a number of luminaires and other light sources. There were three parallel approach paths on the runway. A total of nine consecutive approaches were made for each detection angle. The approaches were divided into 3 blocks and within each block each approach path was randomly chosen once. Each subject detected a total of 63 approaching targets. The results of this study indicate that the average peripheral detection distance for a 30 degree peripheral detection angle can be as short as 25 percent of the average foveal detection distance, while a 20 degree peripheral detection angle resulted in an average peripheral detection distance 3 6 percent of the average foveal detection distance and a 10 degree peripheral detection angle resulted in an average peripheral detection distance of 54 percent of the average foveal detection distance. Based upon the peripheral detection distances obtained in this study we conclude that in roadway situations such as in horizontal curves where reflective targets could become visible for the first time in the periphery of a driver's visual field, appropriate increases in the reflecitvity of a target must be made in order to assure timely detection.
Human Factors at Bell Laboratories
Authors: Wattenbarger B. L.
Published: January 2012

Over the last 40 years, human factors has grown to become part of the culture of Bell Laboratories. This paper traces briefly the history of the discipline within the company, and then describes four examples of successful applications of human factors principles and research to problems, products and services.
Risk Estimation for Common Consumer Products
Authors: Brems Douglas J.
Published: January 2012

This paper reports a study of risk estimation for common consumer products. Subjects estimated injury frequencies and recalled/identified accident scenarios. While performance on the frequency estimation task highlighted a surprising ability to assess relative levels of risk very quickly, the scenario recall task showed severe errors in judgment. In the frequency estimation task, estimates that were made within 2 seconds of category presentation were just as accurate as those made after lengthy analysis. In the scenario recall task, subjects could recall or generate only about 40 percent of the common accident scenarios associated with each product category, and they overestimated their own ability to recall scenarios. When asked about specific scenarios that they had failed to identify, subjects cited both awareness and memory problems. These findings are discussed with reference to a model of risk perception in which the individual uses a readily accessible base of knowledge for assessing risks.
A Secure Way to Safer Products
Authors: Marinissen Aat H. , Molenbroek Johan F.M. , Schoone-Harmsen Marian
Published: January 2012

In this paper the so-called Product Safety Model is presented. This model has been developed at the Delft University of Technology as an aid to designers in designing safe products. The decrease in hazard connected with the product, upon application of the model, is a measure of its effectiveness. The model will have its place in the complex of the design process and compromises will have to be made, e.g. safety versus functioning and remaining risk versus the effort to create a safer product.
Scenario Analysis of Children's Ingestion Accidents
Authors: Godfrey Sandra S. , Fontenelle Gail A. , Brems Douglas J. , Brelsford John W. , Laughery Kenneth R.
Published: January 2012

This paper reports the results of a scenario analysis of ingestion accidents involving children under five years of age. The variables of primary interest were the location of the child and the supervising adult, what each of them was doing before the accident, the nature and location of the substance, and how it was accessed and opened. Several frequent scenarios were identified. They indicate that most ingestion accidents happen in the course of normal events in the home rather than under unusual circumstances. Another interesting finding was that products with safety caps were involved in 57% of these cases. Results demonstrate the need for a modification of cap design and a public education program for parents regarding situations that lead to ingestion accidents.
Mine Equipment Operators' Perceptions concerning Alertness and Shift Rotation
Authors: Wagner Jon A. , Garcia Meliton M.
Published: January 2012

In order to learn how mine equipment operators view numerous factors which may affect their alertness, two groups of operators (N = 57 and N = 73) were surveyed through the administration of questionnaires. It was of particular interest to use survey questions which would elucidate the hypothetical links between shift rotation, alertness, and accident causation. Based on the information and impressions obtained during this project, it seems apparent that alertness is greatly influenced by the necessity to work three shifts on a rotating schedule, by the physical and mental stimulation afforded by the task, and by the physical environment. It is also apparent that alertness can be maintained or at least restored by incorporating certain changes in the way tasks are performed and by modifying shift rotation schedules. Future Bureau of Mines research will utilize this information in designing improved shift rotation schedules and in deriving coping strategies which shiftworking mine equipment operators can use to maintain alertness on the job.
Information System Requirements for Response to Hazardous Material Spills
Authors: Stubler William F.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a functional analysis of the information needs of a chemical company for its response to hazardous material spills. An information system model, which formed the framework for this analysis, is presented. The analysis identified data requirements to support decision making and functional requirements to support communication of these decisions to the involved people and agencies. These requirements were compared to the existing system to identify current limitations. Potential solutions for overcoming these limitations are discussed.
Assessing User Acceptance of Next Generation air Traffic Controller Workstations
Authors: Davies Daniel K. , Phillips Mark D.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes application of a methodology to evaluate the operational suitability of an air traffic control console design. This approach combines specified requirements, operations concepts, and the expertise of a qualified user group to assess the suitability of proposed designs. In addition to these elements, basic human factors engineering principles are used to provide the evaluations in a “real world” (non-laboratory) setting. Conclusions highlight the utility of this methodology in providing a link from system, requirements to a suitability evaluation and in allowing the comparison of multiple designs to a single benchmark specification.
Peripheral Information Extraction: Cognitive Load Effects
Authors: Williams Leonard J.
Published: January 2012

The functional field of view appears to be sensitive to various cognitive load manipulations of foveal portions of displays. Several studies are summarized which provide considerable evidence for a kind of tunnel-vision which is induced via cognitive loading.
Putting Information in the Visual Periphery: It Beats a Pointed Stick in the Eye
Authors: Beringer Dennis B. , Howard Fay , Jenkins Joe
Published: January 2012

The Increasing complexity of systems has placed great pressure on the system designer to provide effective and efficient means for communicating system and subsystem status information to the operator. The conventional means of providing this feedback ultimately require displays beyond those required for momentary control of the system, increasing the amount of visual information that must be processed and usually increasing the amount of instrumentation present. It may be possible to integrate these secondary sources of Information within the context of a single display that Is proximal to primary system displays and has strong spatial pattern characteristics. Three formats of such a “peripheral” display were examined in the context of a simulated instrument flight task. The “figural” displays appeared to provide a slight edge in performance over a histogram-based display.
Subjective and Objective Judgments of Screen Formats
Authors: Williams James R. , Leaf William A.
Published: January 2012

In order to refine a program (display.c) developed for the purpose of objectively measuring screen formats, a study was performed both to investigate the accuracy and sensitivity of the algorithms measuring format variables and to determine what variables are used by “experts” to judge screen layouts. The program algorithms were evaluated by running through the program displays with varying format structures. A multiple scaling approach was used to determine which factors were used by experts, designers, and students in judging screen layouts. Expert judgments of “ease of use” were used as a test of the accuracy of display.c's prediction of display usability. Results indicated that although most of the physical measurements of display.c were reasonable, grouping algorithms and ease of use prediction needed revision to better reflect expert judgments.
CADAM Applications in the Design and Evaluation of Aircraft Displays
Authors: Rauch Stephen
Published: January 2012

The Grumman F-14D fleet air superiority fighter represents a step forward in the application of integrated controls and displays to the reduction of the high workload in the multiple task operational environment. System requirements necessitate the implementation of an avionics display system that would present flight status information efficiently and in a manner most conducive to enhancing F-14D pilot and Radar Intercept Officer (RIO) performance. In order to accomplish this, Human Factors Engineers at Grumman Corporation elected to utilize multi-color Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing (CADAM) in the design and evaluation of the Weapon Status Panel, Head-Up and Multi-Function display systems. The multi-color CADAM was used because of its unique ability to present this information efficiently, realistically and at the earliest stage in the design phase. This paper discusses the rationale for using the color CADAM as a design and evaluation tool and presents examples of specific computer generated display formats for use in the F-14D tactical fighter cockpit avionics system.
Integration of Human Factors Engineering within the System Acquisition Process
Authors: Waldrop Grace P.
Published: January 2012

The U.S. Army's Manpower and Personnel Integration (MANPRINT) requirement is designed to fully integrate the Materiel Acquisition Process (MAP) to include Human Factors Engineering (HFE), Manpower, Personnel, Training, System Safety, and Health Hazard Assessment early in the cycle. This effort represents an excellent opportunity for HFE practitioners to influence the system design process with considerations for the human component. However, MANPRINT also represents the necessity for a variety of disciplines to work together and communicate data during all phases of the MAP. This task requires full documentation of all efforts and utilization of valid methodologies. The broad base of data contained within HFE analyses gives it a critical role in the integration process.
Be all that you can be: The Army's Manprint Initiative
Authors: Neal Daniel L. , Robinson Linda T. , Takacs Stephan P. , Rainwater Joseph J.
Published: January 2012

During the 29th Annual Meeting of the Human Factors Society, more than one author highlighted the need for human factors engineering influence to design early in the developmental cycle of weapons systems for the US Army. The Army's new MANPRINT initiative, designed to ensure proper integration of manpower and personnel concerns into design of equipment, has been adopted as the method to achieve that end. The MANPRINT initiative will allow a soldier to “be all he or she can be” by providing systems designed with the soldier in mind.
Evidence for Global Processing of Complex Visual Displays
Authors: Munson Robert C. , Horst Richard L.
Published: January 2012

“Polar graphic” displays, in which changes in system status are represented by distortions in the form of a geometric figure, were presented to subjects, and reaction time (RT) to discriminate system status was recorded. Of interest was the extent to which reaction time showed evidence of global processing of these displays as the number of nodes and difficulty of discrimination were varied. When discrimination of system status was easy, RT showed no increase with increasing number of nodes, providing evidence of global processing. When discrimination was difficult, systematic differences in RT as a function of the number of nodes suggested the invocation of other (local) processes, although the data were not consistent with a node-by-node search process.
Integrated Voice-and-Data User Interface Designs
Authors: Marchetti F. M. , Tsuji B. H.
Published: January 2012

A relatively new area of development is integrated voice and data systems. With its advent come challenges for both the engineering and behavoural scientists. Because integrated voice and data systems provide an opportunity to rely on human social interactions and communication, the user interface for such an integrated system is greatly simplified. Below we describe the behavioural issues which have guided the development of an integrated voice-data system.
Extended Workdays: Effects of 8-Hour and 12-Hour Rotating Shift Schedules on Test Performance, Subjective Alertness, Sleep Patterns, and Psychosocial Variables
Authors: Rosa Roger R. , Colligan Michael J. , Lewis Paul
Published: January 2012

A newly instituted 3–4 day/12-hr rotating shift schedule was compared to the previous 5–7 day/8-hr schedule using standard laboratory-type measures of performance and alertness, and a questionnaire on sleep patterns and other personal habits. After seven months adaptation to the new schedule, a preliminary analysis indicated that there were some decrements alertness, reductions in sleep, and disruptions of other personal activities during 12-hr workdays. Gastro-intestinal state improved during night shift, however, and increases in self-reported stress were reduced by the shortened workweek. These results are discussed in terms of trade-offs between longer workdays and shorter workweeks. It is emphasized that, at this time, no determination can be made of the extent of risk associated with these changes in alertness.
Evaluation of a 12-Hour/Day Shift Schedule
Authors: Lewis Paul M. , Swaim Dan J.
Published: January 2012

In April 1985, the operating crews at the Fast Flux Test Facility near Richland, Washington, changed their rotating shift schedule from an 8- to a 12-hour/day work schedule. The primary purpose of the change was to reduce the attrition of operators by increasing their job satisfaction. Eighty-four percent of the operators favored the change. A program was established to evaluate the effects on plant performance, operator alertness, attrition, sleep, health, job satisfaction, and off- the-job satisfaction. Preliminary results from that evaluation program indicate that the 12-hour shift schedule is a reasonable alternative to an 8-hour schedule at this facility.
Integrated versus Modular Point of sale Terminal Design: A productivity analysis
Authors: Hoffman Mark S.
Published: January 2012

Cost justification of selecting modular POS (Point Of Sale) terminals in many businesses is a challenge for many retailers. A research program was conducted in Europe to explore productivity and financial benefits of integrated and modular POS equipment for small supermarkets. Tests were conducted over an eighteen month period. The greatest improvement in front-end productivity was achieved with a modular POS scanning system. This equipment configuration increased the front-end workload capacity by 24%.
What are Video “Colorists” and How do we Human Factor them?
Authors: Slake Tyler
Published: January 2012

This paper summarizes some of the work-in-progress in evaluating the role of the human operator in a novel system for colorizing black and white film. The findings of a series of initial structured observations and pilot testing are reported, followed by a series of sample human factors problems and possible solution approaches identified. Future plans for expanded efforts to study the new task of “coloring” are described.
Biomechanical Considerations in Dynamic Strength Performance
Authors: Chaffin Don B.
Published: January 2012

This paper attempts to explain how biomechanical factors operate to affect human strength performance under dynamic conditions. It is shown that both inertial factors and muscle performance factors must be considered when modeling dynamic strengths. Both are shown to affect strength performance as well as how dynamic tasks must be evaluated.
Evaluation of Impermeable Protective Garments using Heat Transfer Models
Authors: Kwon Yeong G. , Ramsey Jerry D.
Published: January 2012

The heat exchanges between impermeable protective garments and the environment are critical for workers in hot environments such as nuclear power plant workers, chemical workers, metal workers and fire fighters. The increasing availability and capability of the microcomputer make it feasible to use sophisticated heat transfer models and methods to evaluate the comparative effects of different impermeable garment configurations. This paper compares and evaluates several available heat transfer models and presents the results obtained from their use.
The Army unit Training Model and Guidelines for the Integration of Embedded Training (ET)
Authors: Aldrich Robert E. , Strasel H. C. , Ditzian Jan L.
Published: January 2012

Embedded Training (ET) is a new training alternative for individual and collective sustainment training in Army systems at the unit level. This paper outlines the existing Army Unit Training Model, ET integration requirements, guidelines for the integration of ET into the existing components of the Army Unit Training Model and the creation of a new ET specific component.
User Interface Design Guidelines for Expert Troubleshooting Systems
Authors: Eike David R. , Fleger Stephen A. , Phillips Elizabeth R.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes the status and preliminary results of an ongoing research project to develop and validate user interface design guidelines for expert troubleshooting systems (ETS). The project, which is sponsored by the Systems Technology Branch of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, is part of a larger research program to study the application of emerging user interface technologies to the design and development of user interfaces for Space Station-era systems. The project has two separate research thrusts. The first and central thrust is to develop and validate a set of human engineering guidelines for designing the user interface of an ETS. The second thrust is to design and implement an electronic data base to manage storage and retrieval of the guidelines.

This paper discusses the human factors issues that are unique to the design of a user interface for an ETS. This paper is not intended to address the breadth of research that has been conducted on human-computer interaction with conventional systems. This topic is well-represented in established human engineering principles, criteria and practices as desribed in the literature (e.g., Hendricks, et al, 1982; Norman, et al, 1983; Smith and Mosier, 1985; Norman and Draper, 1986; etc.).
Methodologies for the Evaluation of CRT Displays
Authors: Blackman Harold S.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents the results of a series of experiments that have been conducted by the Human Factors Research Branch for the purpose of developing objective methods that will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of cathod ray tube (CRT) generated displays in improving reactor operator performance. The results of this work can provide a basis for the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (USNRC) to objectively evaluate specific licensee-developed display designs. The following methods have been developed: (1) Psychophysics – short exposure of static display types were presented to subjects who were tasked to report status of a given parameter; (2) Multidimensional Rating Scale – paper and pencil instrument employed by subjects to rate the features of a display type across a variety of psychological dimensions; (3) Checklist Evaluation – a paper and pencil instrument employed by subjects to assess particular display types according to a set of human engineering criteria; (4) Noninteractive Evaluation – a formal experiment where the subjects were requested to identify dynamic simulated transients using various display types; and (5) Interactive Evaluation – similar to the noninteractive, but the subjects interacted with the simulator using a touch screen to mitigate transient events.
Is Participatory Ergonomics Appropriate across Cultures? Trends and Future Criteria
Authors: Imada Andrew S.
Published: January 2012

This paper examines the concept of participatory ergonomics and its conceptual underpinnings. Available evidence on successful applications of participatory ergonomics are covered. These successful applications across cultures are necessary to establish that participatory ergonomics is a robust, culture-free method. Three areas of research are identified and suggested as future criteria for evaluating future participatory ergonomic interventions. These criteria will create systematic evaluations of both individual and organizational systems.
Changes in Performance in Workload with Training
Authors: Schneider Walter , Detweiler Mark
Published: January 2012

The effects of practice on accuracy, speed, and resource load are briefly discussed. Procedures for measuring resource load and training of high performance skills are illustrated. Analysis of task consistency and procedures for establishing the marginal utility of various training options are described. The alternatives of time-line analysis, subjective measures and multiple resource theory are commented on.