bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preschool Children and the Cigarette Lighter
Authors: Lerner Neil D. , Denham Susanne A. , Sedney Catherine A.
Published: January 2012

Fire is the leading cause of death in the home for children under the age of five. Many of these fires are caused by the children themselves, and the common disposable butane lighter has emerged as a frequent source of ignition. The children involved are typically quite young, with three-fourths under age five. The work reported in this paper addressed human factors concerns in children operating cigarette lighters to start fires. It included a review of literature on child fire setting; an analysis of in-depth accident investigations; a survey of the child developmental literature to identify physical, cognitive, and behavioral factors related to lighter operation; the development of strategies for enhancing the child-resistance of lighters; and the development and pilot testing of a detailed formal evaluation protocol for assessing the child-resistance of lighters. The overall findings of the project indicate the significance of the fire safety problem involving cigarette lighters, and the susceptibility of the problem to human factors solutions. The general strategies identified for improving the product provide a starting point for creative, and cost effective, design approaches. The evaluation protocols developed provide an objective means for assessing child-resistance, and should prove useful for research, evaluation, and regulation.
A New Warning System for Protected Level Crossings
Authors: Haga Shigeru , Watanabe Kazuyoshi , Kusukami Ken
Published: January 2012

A level crossing on a Japanese Railways line was improved from the human factors point of view. Improved features of the warning system installed there are outlined and effects of the changes are reported. Various good effects of the renewal were found in visibility of the warning lights, appraisal by road users, and video-recorded crossing behaviour. It was concluded that the renewal was highly successful and we advised the Japanese Railways to improve other level crossings similarly.
Consumer Acceptance of Threatening Warnings in the Residential Environment
Authors: Harris Jean E. , Wiklund Michael E.
Published: January 2012

In the course of designing warnings a manufacturer of residential swimming pools, American Institutes for Research (AIR) conducted several surveys of potential pool users to determine whether threatening (i.e. morbid, disturbing, or fear-arousing) or non-threatening warnings were more appropriate for the residential environment. This study focused on determining (1) how effective both types of warnings would be in preventing serious pool injuries and (2) the likelihood that a pool owner would post the warnings. The warnings addressed the two major swimming pool hazards, as determined by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) statistics: (1) diving accidents involving teenage males and (2) drowning accidents involving children under the age of 5 years. We conducted an initial survey of 15 potential pool users to assess the pool manufacturer's existing warnings. Then we surveyed 27 potential pool users to determine their preferences from several design alternatives. Finally, we validated comprehension of the pictographs with a survey of 135 subjects. During these surveys, a substantial proportion of the subjects indicated that people might have reservations about posting a threatening warning. The final warning designs reflect the conclusion that it is better to provide warnings that do not offend people's sensibilities. This increases the chance that pool owners will post the warnings in a residential environment.
Selecting Comprehensible Warning Symbols for Swimming Pool Slides
Authors: Boersema Theo , Zwaga Harm J. G.
Published: January 2012

To reduce the hazardous behaviour of swimming pool slide users five warning messages were identified. For each warning nine symbols were developed. The comprehensibility of the symbols was tested using an evaluation procedure based to a large extent on the ISO testing procedure to determine the comprehensibility of public information symbols. Respondents were 202 swimming pool users between 7 and 19 years of age. Seven acceptable symbols were found referring to four of the five warnings.
Protocol Analysis and Action Classification in the Evaluation of an Advanced Annunciator System Design
Authors: Sanquist Thomas F. , Fujita Yushi
Published: January 2012

The use of protocol analysis and behavioral classification for evaluating advanced display concepts is described. Three experienced nuclear power plant operators solved problems in a full-scale simulator which employed an alarm suppression logic in the annunciator display. Verbal protocols and behavioral actions were collected as operators solved the problems, and were compared with protocols in which the alarm suppression logic was not used. The results indicated that more observations of discrete values and more control actions were made in the condition employing the alarm suppression scheme, suggesting more effective diagnosis and control with this type of man-machine interface.
The Use of Low-Cost Microcomputers as Medium-Fidelity Simulators for Prototype Development, Training and Research
Authors: Becker Curtis A. , Hamerman-Matsumoto Joy
Published: January 2012

Research time in state-of-the-art flight simulators is in heavy demand. The demand is even more acute when future aircraft and future cockpit systems are the targets of the investigation. Configuring the simulator properly and then training pilots to function in that configuration are substantial time drains. We believe that we have solved many of the problems associated with limiting the cockpit crew station designs to optimal configurations before committing simulator resources to further investigation. Further, we have also resolved a major training requirement in a way that we believe will minimize the need for insimulator training time.
OT&E Service Report Classification
Authors: Courtright John F. , Acton William H.
Published: January 2012

Many problems encountered during operational test and evaluation of Air Force systems are described in service reports, an important element in the communication of test findings to the system acquisition community. Since many service reports cite deficiencies in the man-machine interface, service report data are an important source of human factors information. However, they are not readily integrated with other test data because of their qualitative character. This paper describes attempts to classify service reports from two complex command, control and communications type systems in order to make the data more usable. Classification schemes emphasizing (1) likely engineering solutions to the problems and (2) human activities affected by the problems were applied. Classification results were consistent with known characteristics of the system, and revealed interesting trends in the data. Some support was obtained for both the reliability and validity of the classification schemes as well. Implications of the results for service report analysis are discussed.
A Methodology for Comparing the Software Interfaces of Competitive Products
Authors: Bachman Robin D.
Published: January 2012

In a competitive development environment, a method is needed to quantify the usability characteristics of an interface. This quantification provides a basis for making human factors design recommendations. A methodology for comparing the usability characteristics of product interfaces with those of the competition is presented. The discussion details the steps of a competitive evaluation methodology: (1) definition of interface objectives, (2) development of a flow chart for each product interface, (3) determination of the categories of comparison based on salient and quantifiable characteristics of the interface, (4) derivation of the metrics used for comparison, and (5) the resulting comparative evaluation. The methodology was used to compare the panel (screen) format and navigation characteristics of two network controllers. The value of this methodology and its impact on the way human factors engineers contribute to product development are also discussed.
Experimental Evaluations of a Model of Mental Workload
Authors: Hancock P. A. , Chignell M. H. , Vercruyssen M. , Denhoff M.
Published: January 2012

The present experiments were designed to test predictions from a model of mental workload. The model predicts non-linear increases in mental workload as perceived distance from a task goal grows and effective time for action is reduced. Diminution of mental workload is achieved by application of effort which brings the task goal into the region of acceptable time/distance constraints for successful resolution. Two experiments are reported which tested these assertions using the timepools performance task. Timepools is unique as a performance task in that it generates a spatial representation of a shrinking temporal target. The independent effects of path length, i.e., the number of sequential targets to be acquired, and shrink rate, i.e., the collapse time during which the circle is halved in area, may be assessed using performance variables such as reaction time (RT), movement time (MT), error rate (E), and the subjective perception of workload. Data from Experiment 1, indicate systematic effects for task related factors across performance and workload measures, although such a pattern was not isomorphically mapped to the a priori assumed difficulty of the task. In Experiment 2, shrink rate and path length had independent effect on RT and MT respectively, which were reflected in components of the individual workload scales. The ramifications with respect to the model are elaborated.
Factors Influencing the Development and Transfer of Automatic Processing
Authors: Kramer Arthur F. , Strayer David L. , Buckley Jean
Published: January 2012

A study was performed to examine the role of consistency in the development and transfer of automatic processing. Subjects performed a rule-based memory search task in which they compared multidimensional probes to either one, two or three memory set rules. Results indicated that learning occurred in the absence of consistency at lower levels of task description (e.g. mappping of individual task components to responses) as long as higher level consistencies existed in the task (e.g. consistent mapping of task components to a conceptual framework). High positive transfer was obtained despite replacement of the exemplars of the memory set rules, suggesting that learning was not specific to the items encountered during training. On the other hand, the magnitude of positive transfer was reduced when the rules were replaced suggesting that most of the learning took place at the level of specific rules. Some evidence was also obtained for more general process-based learning.
Training for Spacecraft Technical Analysts
Authors: Ayres Thomas J. , Bryant Larry
Published: January 2012

Deep space missions such as Voyager rely upon a large team of expert analysts who monitor activity in the various engineering subsystems of the spacecraft and plan operations. Senior teammembers generally come from the spacecraft designers, and new analysts receive on-the-job training. Neither of these methods will suffice for the creation of a new team in the middle of a mission, which may be the situation during the Magellan mission. New approaches are recommended, including electronic documentation, explicit cognitive modelling, and coached practice with archived data.
Trainers Teaching Thinking Skills: Applications of Recent Research in Metacognition to Training
Authors: Redding Richard E.
Published: January 2012

Humans have the ability to monitor and control their conscious cognitive processes. This ability, called metacognition, implies that people can learn to optimize their cognitive processes. Recent research in metacognition provides new ways of accelerating learning and skill transfer through an improvement in the decision-making, problem-solving, and attentional skills of trainees. This paper provides a review of recent research in metacognition and presents recommendations for assessing and facilitating metacognitive skill in trainees.
Calculate (Don't Guess) the Effect of Symbol Size on Usefulness of Color
Authors: Carter Robert
Published: January 2012

Everyone knows that the colors of smaller objects are less distinct than the colors of larger images. This fact is of practical importance in the design of visual display formats. Color is useful to speed visual search and to organize categories of information. Because display space is precious, symbols are made as small as possible. The display designer must make a tradeoff between symbol size and operator performance. The purpose of this paper is to provide a quantitative basis for the tradeoff. Methods to calculate the effect of symbol size are evaluated, design tricks are highlighted, and the reader is alerted to pitfalls.
Further Experiments on the Effects of Foveal Load on Peripheral Vision
Authors: Rinalducci Edward J. , Lassiter Donald L. , MacArthur Mary , Piersal James , Mitchell Lawrence K.
Published: January 2012

The main objective of this research was to investigate the effects of foveal load on sensitivity in the peripheral visual field. The first experiment was presented at previous meeting of the Human Factors Society. Here, foveal load was manipulated by comparing the fixation of a cross vs. a simple first-order compensatory tracking task display. Peripheral sensitivity was determined simultaneously for light flashes presented at different eccentricities along the horizontal meridian. In general, the results showed no losses in peripheral sensitivity or a “tunnel vision” effect under the experimental conditions employed. Three more experiments have been carried out since that presentation. More complex tracking tasks have been employed in order to vary foveal load and the difficulty of the perimetry task has also been manipulated in one experiment by including lights on the vertical meridian. Whether or not a loss or a gain in peripheral sensitivity depends upon the complexity of the foveal task and to some extent the perimetry task. Results are discussed in terms of arousal and resource theory.
The Effect of Display Format and Classification Strategy on a Diagnostic Decision Task
Authors: Boulette Margery Davidson
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effect of system state uncertainty and data reliability on a diagnostic decision task when system data was presented in three different display formats (Digital, Bargraph and Configural). Properties of an actual process control system were simulated in the experiment by varying both system state uncertainty and data reliability. Classification strategy emerged as a major determinant of classification performance across display conditions.
Operator Workload in the UH-60A Black Hawk: Crew Results vs. Tawl Model Predictions
Authors: Iavecchia Helene P. , Linton Paul M. , Bittner Alvah C. , Byers James C.
Published: January 2012

An empirical study was undertaken to collect real-time workload estimates of pilots and copilots performing a resupply mission in a UH-60A flight simulator. Overall and peak workload (OW and PW) ratings were collected for twelve mission segments. These ratings were compared with OW and PW values predicted by the Task Analysis/Workload (TAWL) simulation model. High correlations were found between TAWL-based predictions and crew results for OW ( r = 0.82 to 0.95; p < .01). Lower correlations were found for PW ( r = 0.62; p < .05).
OWLKNEST: An Expert System to Provide Operator Workload Guidance
Authors: Harris Regina M. , Hill Susan G. , Lysaght Robert J.
Published: January 2012

The Operator Workload Knowledge-based Expert System Tool (OWLKNEST) is a microcomputer-based tool that provides guidance in selecting the most appropriate technique to use for estimating Operator Workload (OWL) for developing Army systems. OWLKNEST is based on twenty years of workload research and on knowledge gained in the three-year Army Research Institute OWL Program. The design approach is presented along with a general description of targeted users and knowledge representation scheme. The criteria used to evaluate available OWL techniques for inclusion in the system are also presented. Sample system applications are presented which illustrate how OWLKNEST can be used for a variety of needs.
A Validation of SWAT as a Measure of Workload Induced by Changes in Operator Capacity
Authors: Hankey Jonathan M. , Dingus Thomas A.
Published: January 2012

The primary focus of much of the workload research over the years has been the sensitivity of the mental workload measures to changes in task demands. However, as Wickens (1984) hypothesizes, the construct of workload is, in actuality, an interaction between the supply of operator mental resources available to devote to a task and to the demands of that task (i.e., “residual capacity”). Therefore, workload fluctuations can occur from either changes in operator capacity or changes in task demand.

A study was performed to investigate the interactive effects of workload induced by changes in task difficulty, fatigue induced by time-on-task and fatigue induced by sleep deprivation on pilot performance. The focus of the current paper is on a finding that Subjective Workload Assessment Technique (SWAT) varied reliably for both the main effects of time-on-task and sleep deprivation, as well as for task difficulty. This finding indicates that SWAT, and probably subjective measures in general, are sensitive to workload induced by changes in operator capacity induced by fatigue. Implications of this finding for workload measurement in general are discussed.
Hand Controller Commonality Evaluation Process
Authors: Stuart Mark A. , Jensen Dean G. , Bierschwale John M. , Wilmington Robert P. , Adam Susan C. , Diaz Manuel F.
Published: January 2012

Remotely controlled devices will be used extensively to support Space Station Freedom on-orbit assembly, maintenance, and payloads. These include crane-type or remote manipulator systems (RMS), dexterous robots, and remotely-piloted free flyers. A hand controller evaluation process has been established at NASA's Johnson Space Center to determine the appropriate hand controller configurations required to support these devices. Three test facilities include dynamic computer simulations, kinematic computer simulations, and physical simulations. The dynamic simulator supported a rate-controlled RMS and a free flyer. The kinematic simulator supported a rate-controlled RMS and a rate or position-controlled dexterous manipulator. The physical simulator supported a rate, position, or force-reflecting dexterous manipulator. Standard interfaces were developed to evaluate six different hand controllers in all three facilities. The hand controllers included six degree-of-freedom (DOF) position and rate mini-master and joystick controllers, and three-DOF rate controllers. There were six tasks and four non-astronaut subjects per task. All six controllers were tested for each task. Six astronauts then completed all tasks using all controllers for each task. Data collected included task performance data, subjective comments, and anthropometric data. The results of these evaluations were then used to make hand controller configuration recommendations to the Space Station Freedom Program.
Influence of Age on the Ability to Hear Telephone Ringers of Different Spectral Content
Authors: Berkowitz J. P. , Casali S. P.
Published: January 2012

The failure to detect a telephone ringer signal can prove frustrating or even hazardous in certain situations, especially for older individuals who rely heavily on telephone access. This study was conducted to investigate the detectability of telephone ringer signals with individuals having elevated hearing levels. Specifically, the study investigated the detectability of three acoustically different telephone ringer signals under two masking noise conditions (quiet and 65 dBA pink noise) for two subject age groups: 20–30 years of age and over 70 years of age. Common residential telephone ringers were sampled, with three acoustically different ringers selected for study. To determine hearing ability, pure tone audiograms were administered to all subjects. Subjects' threshold levels for each ringer were then determined. Significant differences were found between the two age groups, both across telephone ringers and across noise conditions. For the older group, an advantage was found for the ringer signal which contained prominent low-to-mid range frequency components. In addition, the threshold level in noise of one ringer (a high frequency “beeper” type ringer) proved to be approximately equal to the naturally occurring decibel level of that ringer. Thus, the beeper ringer in moderate level noise (65 dBA) was effectively inaudible. The results suggest that certain electronic ringers which are currently in vogue may be unsuitable for use by the elderly or by any individual with significant high-frequency hearing loss.
Small Rotary Controls: Limitations for People with Arthritis
Authors: Metz Stephen , Isle Brian , Denno Sandra , Li Wang
Published: January 2012

Improving access for persons with arthritis requires consideration of their basic abilities. This paper focuses on the design of knobs and how variations in key design factors can either create barriers or provide access for persons with arthritis. This information will provide input for human factor design guidelines that will promote universal access in home and workplace.

Subjects for this study included 80 individuals with diagnosed rheumatoid or osteoarthritis, with an equal number in a control group. The test apparatus included a set of round knobs mounted on an apparatus for measuring static torque. We tested knobs of two diameters and varying surfaces and profiles. A pinch strength test was also conducted. Results showed individuals with arthritis applied significantly less torque to all control knobs than did control subjects and had relatively more difficulty with the larger knobs. The pinch test results correlated well for each subject with their applied torque on the rotary controls.
Longitudinal Analysis of Age-Related Slowing: BLSA Reaction Time Data
Authors: Fozard James L. , Vercruyssen Max , Reynolds Sara L. , Hancock P.A.
Published: January 2012

Reported are preliminary findings from analyses of cross-sectional and longitudinal reaction time data collected on 865 male and 453 female volunteers who ranged in age from 20 to 96 years. Evident in both simple and disjunctive reaction time measures was a consistent slowing with age. In nearly all cases, males were faster than females but gender differences were negligible for the simple reaction time (SRT) compared to disjunctive reaction time (DRT). Repeated testing within subjects over 2–8 years also showed age-related slowing across decades. Cross-sectional studies have been criticized for overestimating the actual age-related slowing found in longitudinal analysis. However, this was not the case in the present research. Similar effects were observed in analyses of data from all subjects on their first visit (n = 1318 subjects) compared to data from all subjects over all of their visits (n = 3855 subject visits) compared to data from only those subjects across decades who were tested repeatedly over at least 8 years (n = 314 subjects X 5 visits = 1570 subject visits). Findings from this research have human factors implications for task design, personnel selection, performance prediction, accident analysis, human tests and measurements, and demographic norms, to mention a few.
Age Differences in the Adjustment to Shiftwork
Authors: Keran Christopher M. , Duchon James C.
Published: January 2012

Due to the aging U.S. workforce and the increase in the percentage of shiftworkers in the workforce, an understanding of the effects of shiftwork on older employees is considered important to the U.S. Bureau of Mines. As part of a larger study on shiftwork by the Bureau of Mines, survey data were obtained from 295 rotating shiftworkers. The workers were categorized into three age groups with means of: 27.4, n=76; 36.4, n=177; and 49.3, n=42. ANOVAs revealed that older workers reported greater frequency of 6 out of 23 physical symptoms than younger workers. Older workers also reported themselves to be more “morning” type than younger workers, which may help explain some of the Age by Shift differences. MANOVAs were used to determine Age by Shift interactions of sleeping habits, stress, and physical symptoms. Though most of the workers have problems with the night shift, the older worker seemed to have more trouble adjusting to it, and also the afternoon shift, than the younger worker. For the most part, however, the older worker seemed to adjust to the day shift as well if not better than the younger worker.
User Interaction with Maintenance Information a Performance Analysis of Hypertext versus Hard Copy Formats
Authors: Nelson Bruce C. , Smith Thomas J.
Published: January 2012

Four different formats of an existing mining equipment repair manual were prepared for a comparative human performance test: (1) original hard copy text; (2) improved hard copy text with enhanced readability and indexing features; (3) computerized (hypertext) version of original text; and (4) hypertext version of improved text with interactive help features. Students in a diesel mechanics class (n=55) then were tested for proficiency in accessing and understanding information presented in these different formats. The results indicate that: (1) although the users accessed the information less quickly using the computer compared with hard copy, they positively endorsed computerized hypertext presentation of maintenance information; and (2) enhanced text readability and indexing improved access to and understanding of maintenance information, but this improvement was not subjectively appreciated by the users relative to other manuals they had used. This test indicates that change to computerized maintenance manuals should be made cautiously, and that more research is needed to measure different hypertext design and training factors.
Human Factors in the Design of Emergency Communications Systems
Authors: Rice John R.
Published: January 2012

The design of the user interface for emergency communications systems is critical in providing timely and appropriate response to emergency requests. With the creation of a plan to implement a national emergency number (9-1-1), more communities are choosing to centralize all emergency service communications with a single center called a public safety answering point (PSAP). This paper describes some of the issues faced in building a PSAP attendant workstation user interface for an Enhanced 9-1-1 emergency communications system. Designing a user interface for emergency communications requires a thorough understanding of the circumstances in which PSAP attendants operate. Researching the work environment of PSAP attendants has served to identify several human factors issues that became design goals for the user interface. Conducting iterative usability testing with PSAP attendants ensured the design of a usable system.
Usability Testing: Identifying Functional Requirements for Data Logging Software
Authors: Philips Brian H. , Dumas Joseph S.
Published: January 2012

One of the new tools in human factors today is usability testing. More and more human factors professionals are conducting these tests to get accurate feedback from typical users to improve the usability, overall quality, and sales of their products. American Institutes for Research has been doing usability testing for five years now and have discussed testing with the directors of many labs. We have a body of knowledge and experience from which other professionals can benefit. In particular, we will be discussing data logging software and the functional requirements for it. In this paper we will describe the requirements for data logging software to log data, edit the data log, back up data and analyze data.

Due to the scarcity of commercially available data logging packages (we know of only one at the present time) we found it necessary to write our own software for use in our usability lab and we know others are doing the same. Based on our experience of writing and using this software, we will describe the important functional requirements for data logging software.
User Characteristics: Are Personality Types and Psychometric Factors Good Predictors?
Authors: Carpenter Raymond A. , Bishu Ram R. , Riley Michael W.
Published: January 2012

The objective of this investigation was to experimentally evaluate possible relationships among personality types, selected psychometric factors, and categories of cognitive activity, with an intent to develop user behavioral models fo interface design. Twenty subjects (10 novice and 10 experienced) participated in an interactive scheduling task with two levels of task complexity. The task involved navigation through ten action alternatives, with each alternative bein represented by a screen, to allocate resources. The subjects were administered with Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) tests and a battery of psychometric tests. Cognitive time, total number of menu selections, total number of assignments, and the distribution of cognitive time into intelligence, design and choice activities were the performance measures. Variables derived from measurements of personality traits and psychometric factors were evaluated as predictive measures of performance. The personality trait for sensing/knowing was significant in predicting overall performance, as were psychometric factors for induction, integrative processing, and spatial scanning. The personality trait of extrovert/introvert was found to be significant in predicting the distribution of screen use times, as were derived factors for locus of control, memory ability, and personality. These results can form the basis for examining the usefulness of personality types and psychometric factors as variables in models of user characteristics.
Time Estimation of Computer “Wait” Message Displays
Authors: Meyer Joachim , Shinar David , Leiser David
Published: January 2012

The effect of different types computer “wait” message displays on the subjective estimates of the duration of intervals in which the subject had to wait for the computer response was studied. The displays were either static (a blank screen, the phrase PLEASE WAIT, or an epigram) or dynamic (a blinking PLEASE WAIT, a round clock-like display, or an emerging string of Xs along the center of the screen). Display duration varied from 3 to 16 seconds. The dynamic displays were shown at three different rates each. Results showed differences among the displays. For dynamic displays in which a development over time can be perceived (the clock and string of Xs), there was a direct relation between the rate of change and the estimate, i.e., higher rates of change led to estimates of longer durations. The results demonstrate that some of the variables, which have been found to influence time perception in basic psychological research settings, are applicable in the user-computer setting.
The Impact of Icons & Visual Effects on Learning Computer Databases
Authors: Merwin David H. , Dyre Brian P. , Humphrey Darryl G. , Grimes John , Larish John F.
Published: January 2012

Improvements in computer graphics systems have made icons and visual effects available for use in designing database interfaces. However, little research has been reported about the impact of icons and visual effects on performance measures such as item selection time and recall of the databases. The present study examined the effect of icons and visual effects on item selection time and recall of a hierarchical database structure. Information in the database was represented by either a text label or a combined icon-text label. In addition, three types of visual effects during transition between menu screens were examined: instantaneous change, zoom open from the previous screen, and dissolve into the next screen. Both the item representation and screen transition manipulations were examined between subjects. Subjects were required to reach goals by selecting items from the various menus in the database. Processing time per menu screen and recall of the database were measured for each subject. Both the type of representation (icon-text vs. text alone) and the type of transition between menus (zoom, instantaneous change or dissolve) were found to affect subjects' ability to recall the structure of the database. Furthermore, no similar effects on item selection time were found for either manipulation. These results suggest that icons and visual effects can facilitate recall of hierarchical databases without increasing traversal time. In addition, the results suggest that indiscriminate use of some visual effects (dissolve) can impair learning of computer databases.
The Natural History of Introducing New Information Technology into a High-Risk Environment
Authors: Cook Richard I. , Woods David D. , Howie Michael B.
Published: January 2012

In order to study the impact of automation on complex, high consequence domains, we observed the introduction of a new computer based surgical operating room information system and its effect on cardiac anesthesiologists and their tasks. Recently developed operating room monitoring systems show considerable integration of function compared to older, discrete monitoring ensembles. The new systems differ from their predecessors in the method of display, human interface, and automation of functions previously divided between discrete monitoring elements. The results demonstrate how automation, especially clumsy automation, affects practitioner work patterns and suggests that clumsy automation constrains users in specific and significant ways.
When It Doesn't Add Up: The Effect of Combining Command-Name Guidelines
Authors: Steinbach Kathryn F. , Zoltan-Ford Elizabeth
Published: January 2012

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of combining several command-name guidelines in the human-factors literature. The particular guidelines examined included the naturalness, specificity, frequency of use, and form (words or symbols) of the command names; and the relationship among the commands within a set (i.e., congruency). Four command sets were studied: a noncompliant set that violated all five guidelines; a mixed set that adhered to all five guidelines; and a symbolic and a verbal set that both violated the form guideline. Three categories of dependent variables were examined: performance (time, errors, and the use of help and cancel functions); recall; and preference measures. The results of the study indicate that the extent to which guidelines can be combined differ depending on the type of dependent variable examined. Further, the results do not support the conclusion that the more guidelines followed, the better the user's performance. The conclusions discussed include how to interpret guidelines based on past research, suggestions for combining existing guidelines, and implications for future research.
Development of Camera Symbols for Consumers
Authors: Crist Brian , Aurello David N.
Published: January 2012

The objective of this work was to develop a prioritized and tested set of symbols for consumer cameras and to recommend for use to the American National Standards Institute. The work was carried out in two phases, message indentification and symbol construction. In the first phase, potential needs for 81 symbols for use on current and anticipated future cameras were Identified. The verbal content of the symbol messages was organized into functional groups arranged around roots. Those were prioritized according to frequency of need and importance of knowing, resulting in 15 symbols to construct.

In the symbol construction phase, concepts for pictorial representations were obtained from a previous study, from modifying existing symbols and by brainstorming. A goal was to produce at least two symbol candidates per each message for testing. Test subjects' critiques of camera symbols in a previous study were applied to the content and design.
Consumer Evaluation of Camera Symbols
Authors: Aurelio David N. , Crist Brian
Published: January 2012

The goals of this research were to investigate how well 20 camera symbols communicated their intended meanings, and to determine the common characteristics of well-understood symbols which could be incorporated into other symbols. Overall, one can conclude that the best symbols did indeed have similar characteristics. These characteristics were grouped into seven fundamental factors which should be considered when designing symbols.
Display Characteristics and Errors at a Complex Data Entry Task
Authors: Kuntz Timothy E. , Amoroso William P. , Lewis C. Michael
Published: January 2012

Some of the most expensive data points ever collected, outside of satellite transmissions and particle accelerators, have come from clinical trials. In large clinical studies it is common to have complex treatment protocols, large samples, and multiple distributed data collection centers. For data to be useful the study's administrators must ensure that criteria, treatments, measurements, and reporting procedures remain uniform across a large number of geographically distributed data collection sites each with its own unique administrative structure and allocation of responsibilities for the data collection task.

PoP is a software system developed over the past seven years at the Epidemiology Data Center (EDC) in the Graduate School of Public Health at the University of Pittsburgh. PoP was designed to assist in the collection of data and to provide quality assurance for clinical trial data. Data is entered locally into microcomputers running PoP at each of the participating sites. Data entry screens are closely matched to the paper forms on which the data is collected in order to facilitate entry and reduce errors. To further reduce transcription errors, PoP requires an independent second “verification” entry of each item of the form before it can pass on to a sequence of logical checking procedures. After data has passed all local verifications it is electronically transferred to a computer at the EDC.
A New Program for the Remote Training of Human Factors Professionals
Authors: Dingus Thomas A. , Gordon Sallie E. , Gill Richard T.
Published: January 2012

The objective of this paper is to describe a new Human Factors Master's degree program available remotely through the University of Idaho's Video Outreach program. For coursework within the program, normal classroom lectures are videotaped in a dedicated facility and produced by a video production engineer. Students can then view the lectures in one of several video formats (including VHS) in any location asynchonously as their schedules allow. This approach makes it possible for students to receive the same information as on-campus students while maintaining full time employment and/or a remote residence. As of this writing, five courses have been videotaped and a sixth is in progress. Over 60 students have taken video courses to date. Methodologies for providing high-quality video information, the need of such a program in the human factors community, data on student performance within the courses, and students reactions and evaluations are discussed.
Floor Mats
Authors: Rys Malgorzata , Konz Stephan
Published: January 2012

During standing work, some surfaces are better than others. This study is a continuation of our previous study (Rys and Konz, 1989a).

In Experiment 1 we evaluated responses of standing on concrete, on a “Footsaver” mat, a San-Eze II mat and an Optimat mat. The 20 subjects stood for 1.5 h on each of the four mats. The criteria were: foot length, width, circumference, forefoot thickness, skin instep and calf temperature. The comfort criteria were a modification of Corlett and Bishop's scale. Based on those criteria all three mats were significantly more comfortable than concrete. Comfort seems to be inversely related to mat compressibility.

In Experiment 2 we investigated the relationship of abdominal endurance and lumbar flexibility to fatigue and discomfort during a simple standing task. Twelve male subjects were tested for physical characteristics. Height, limb length discrepancies, abdominal strength, and flexibility were the best predictors of comfort during 2 h standing work. Higher foot and leg temperature and lower heart rate corresponded to higher productivity.
Adapting Smart Methodology for use with Subjective Rating Data
Authors: Acton William H. , Courtright John F.
Published: January 2012

Decision making based on multiattribute utility theory involves analysis of complex decisions. Each possible course of action or choice is evaluated on a number of important characteristics, and the individual merit scores are then recombined into a single, global utility value for that option. This analytic approach reduces the demands placed on decision makers, and permits review and reconsideration of each step in the decision process. The Simple Multiattribute Rating Technique (SMART) is a method which employs uncomplicated data collection methods, yet produces results similar to more methodologically demanding techniques. Unfortunately, descriptions of SMART procedures do not describe a number of special tests and procedures that can be used with subjective rating data to improve their reliability and validity. A number of biases can occur in rating data, such as: lieniency and severity effects, the tendency for raters to make heavy use of one or the other extreme of rating scale values; sequential effects, biases produced by the type of ratings preceding a given rating item; and halo effects, the tendency for ratings of one characteristic to influence ratings of another. This paper describes several procedures that were employed to minimize these sources of error in a real-world application of SMART-based decision making. It is argued that the procedures employed enhance the credibility of the SMART results, and should therefore be used whenever the decision situation permits collection of appropriate data.
Comparison of Spinal Profiles While Standing, Supine, Prone, and Seated in Four Chair Types: A Pilot Study
Authors: Adams Wayne P. , Stentz Terry L. , Stonecipher Brian L. , Hallbeck M. Susan
Published: January 2012

A 3-dimensional digitizer was used to evaluate the spinal profiles of 16 subjects. These subjects (8 female, 8 male) are from 4 age ranges: 12–14, 20–22, 40–42, and 60–62 years of age. Each subject was measured in 7 different body positions to include: standing, supine, prone, and seated on one of 4 different chair styles. The 4 chairs were a metal folding chair, a stackable plastic molded chair, a 5-caster padded “secretarial” chair, and an ergonomic kneeling “posture” chair similar to a Balans® chair.

The measured spinal profiles were separated into 4 spinal angles (measured with respect to a vertically projected line), the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral angles. Each spinal angle was the dependent variable for an ANOVA analysis. The independent variables were posture, age, gender, and subject. The ANOVA analysis showed that the main effect of posture was significant for the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral angles. Post hoc testing demonstrated that the supine thoracic angle differed significantly from the other 6 body postures, which were grouped together. The mean lumbar angle had two groupings. One group included the standing, prone, and supine postures, while the other group was comprised of the seated postures. The sacral angle for the standing, prone, and supine postures did not differ significantly, but were different from the seated postures. The sacral angle for the ergonomic posture chair was significantly different from the other chairs, with the magnitude of its mean angle between the standing, prone, and supine group, and the group of other seated postures.
Assessment of Postural Discomfort
Authors: Bonney Rosemary , Weisman Gerald , Haugh Larry D. , Finkelstein Jeffrey
Published: January 2012

Tasks requiring awkward postures are common in industry and no guidelines have been developed for “good,” or safe, postures. The present study compares nine different postures in terms of subjective assessments of discomfort. Subjects (five men and five women) maintained each of the postures for ten minutes, and provided discomfort ratings on a visual analog scale. An electrogoniometer and a computerized visual feedback system enabled subjects to adopt and maintain the required postures easily. Results show that the discomfort ratings do discriminate among different postures. Postures that included lateral bending were rated as more uncomfortable than postures involving flexion and/or rotation. The findings confirm the hypothesis that some postures cause greater discomfort than others and provide a basis for developing a posture analysis system. Such a system might eventually be used to specify guidelines for posture safety limits in the industrial workplace.
Endurance in Restricted Postures
Authors: Lee K. , Aghazadeh F. , Waikar A. , Allen M.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents results of a study to find a relationship between the strength required to perform a task and the endurance time in restricted postures. A laboratory experiment was conducted to find the endurance for workers exerting selected percentage of their maximum strength in certain restricted postures. Endurance times of 15 college students were measured at various predetermined strength in postures such as standing, sitting, and lying on the stomach with and without elbow support. It was found that the endurance time was significantly reduced in the restricted postures. Experimental analysis clearly reveals that the average endurance time in the sitting position was only 5.15 minutes when 23 pounds of strength exertion was required; while the endurance time in standing position was more than 90 minutes. The reduction was more significant in the case of postures involving lying on stomach. Subjects could not endure any weight heavier than 10 pounds for longer than 5 minutes. The endurance time was also significantly reduced when the required force level was more than 25% of the maximum strength. A regression model which estimates maximum strength that can be sustained for a given endurance time has been developed and presented.
An Anthropometric Evaluation of the TH-57 Jetranger Helicopter
Authors: Chapleski Robert C. , Adrian Edward D.
Published: January 2012

This paper summarizes results of a questionnaire and field study evaluating the TH-57 Bell Jetranger helicopter from anthropometric aspects. A questionnaire was prepared and distributed to the student pilots asking their opinions in regard to the problems associated with operating this helicopter. Over forty responses were received and analyzed which pointed toward the problem areas. The findings of the questionnaire was used in a field test to evaluate the helicopter objectively.

The respondents indicated that they had problems with a cramped cockpit environment, obstructed visibility, difficulties in reaching and even seeing some instruments and gages and several comfortability factors. The field test indicated that this helicopter is deficient in accomodating individuals within the allowable anthropometric ranges for student pilots. Additionally, many design features to aid in pilot safety and proficiency were given insufiicient attention or totally overlooked. Having identified these deficiencies, solutions were proposed to eliminate them. The result's of this study can be used to study the helicopter further and improve its design for a safer and more user friendly workspace.