bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Examination of Projective versus Post-Task Subjective Workload Ratings for Three Psychometric Scaling Techniques
Authors: Masline Philip J. , Biers David W.
Published: January 2012

The validity of three projective workload techniques-magnitude estimation, equal appearing intervals, and the subjective workload assessment technique (SWAT)- was examined using a simple laboratory task. Ratings of workload by subjects who received only written and verbal descriptions of the task (projective group) were compared to ratings from subjects who performed the task (experimental group). Results indicated that, for all rating scale techniques, subjects were able to validly project ratings of workload. Magnitude estimation possessed a higher degree of correspondence between both groups than the other two scales. This finding offers workload researchers involved with system predesign considerations more options in the choice of an appropriate projective workload metric.
Instructional Processes in Team Training
Authors: Miller Douglas L. , Guerette Paula J. , Morgan Ben B.
Published: January 2012

The present research effort involved the development of a descriptive instructional process model of an operational Navy team training system. The model focuses on the team oriented instructional assessments, decisions, strategies, approaches, feedback processes, etc. used by instructors during team training. It served to clarify and enhance the understanding of team training instructional processes, and permitted evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the instructional system. Based on these, several potential interventions are discussed.
Complex Task Performance under Speed-Accuracy Tradeoff: Single Task versus Dual Task
Authors: Aykin Nuray , Aykin Turgut
Published: January 2012

The effects of speed and accuracy conditions on single and double stimulation task performance were investigated and compared along with the effects of the stimulus complexity and interstimulus interval. The proportion of error responses increased when the complexity of the stimuli increased under speed and accuracy conditions in both single and double stimulation tasks. There was, however, no trend in the proportion of error responses as a function of ISI under speed and accuracy emphases.
Multi-Factor Evaluation of Tactical Planning Aids
Authors: Harris Douglas H. , Geiwitz James
Published: January 2012

Multiple measures of tactical-planning performance were employed to evaluate prototype computer-based planning aids. The objectives of the evaluation were to: 1) assess the extent of overall performance improvement, if any, over existing manual methods, 2) diagnose the impact of computer-aiding on each of the different components of planning performance, and 3) Identify potential deficiencies and needed improvements in specific computer-based aids. The evaluation approach was based on the decomposition of planning into specific components and the measurement of each component within a specific mission context. Within a latin-square experimental design, eight tank platoon leaders first used present paper-map methods to solve tactical problems and then used a system of computer aiding to solve comparable but different problems. Seven objective performance measures assessed different components of planning performance under map and aided conditions; an objective measure of overall mission success and subjective assessments of individual planning aids were also obtained. Results provided a multi-dimensional basis for assessing the potential value of computer-based aids and for further enhancement of the planning aids. Overall, use of the prototype planning aids resulted in a significantly greater rate of mission success, 94 percent vs. 44 percent.
Environmental Requirements for Computer Assisted Instruction
Authors: Christinaz Daniel , Knirk Frederick G.
Published: January 2012

Physical learning environments for computers require special consideration and design. The better this “electronic classroom” environment is designed, the greater are the chances that the desired learning will occur. The design/selection of acoustical, lighting, HVAC factors and space/furniture affect each individual. Physical environments effects student learning, physiology and affect. Behavioral science data regarding color, form, acoustics, light intensity, light contrast, and temperature is useful when designing spaces for learning via computer. In this paper we will examine many of the environmental factors which facilitate or inhibit student progress.
Step Tracking Shrinking Targets
Authors: Johnson Walter W. , Hart Sandra G.
Published: January 2012

Four models describing how people might acquire targets that dynamically vary in size were examined; two that described movement speed as a simple function of target size (either initial or final) and two that described movement speed as a function of the predicted size of the targets at a fixed time in the future (one was referenced to the beginning of the reaction time phase, and the other to the end of this phase). It was found that movement time was best described as a function of a size prediction made at the end, rather than the start, of the reaction time phase. Subjective workload ratings primarily reflected the total amount of time needed to acquire the targets rather than the time pressure imposed by the diminishing size of these targets.
Classroom Teaching, Implicit Learning and the Deleterious Effects of Inappropriate Explication
Authors: Porter David B.
Published: January 2012

Eighty-five senior cadets participated in a class exercise involving complex decision-making in a natural context. One experimental group was induced to employ explicit decisional processing and another was allowed to simply guess appropriate responses. Decision accuracy was measured at three levels of information availability. Both groups performed significantly above the level of chance when no reliable, objective information was provided. However, neither accurate base rate information nor conditional probabilities increased the decision accuracy of either experimental group. The group allowed to simply guess made significantly more accurate responses than did the group induced to explicate their decisional choices. These results provide convergent support for the dissociation of implicit and explicit knowledge. The exercise itself was a useful combination of research and experiential learning and encouraged classroom discussions of many issues related to human decision making.
Human Factors in the People's Republic of China: Some Observations Based on a Faculty Exchange Program
Authors: Shealy Jasper E.
Published: January 2012

The author spent two months as a Faculty member participating in a faculty exchange program in the People's Republic of China. While there, he taught an undergraduate course in Human Factors Engineering in Machine and Workplace design. He also conducted a week long seminar for factory engineering personnel and engineering faculty on the same topics. He consulted with industry and traveled extensively in China during this time. This paper is based on his experiences and observations. Specific topics are: 1) quality and nature of students in the PRC vs. the US, Japan and Europe; 2) Programs in Human Factors in the PRC; 3) Academic Engineering Laboratories in the PRC and 4) Safety Engineering in the PRC.
In Vivo Estimation of the Coefficient of Friction between Extrinsic Flexor Tendons and Surrounding Structures in the Carpal Tunnel
Authors: Albin Thomas J.
Published: January 2012

It has been suggested that the coefficient of friction between the finger flexor tendons and the structures over which they slide is normally quite small, but increases with irritation of the tendon. This paper utilizes a belt and pulley model of the wrist in the in vivo measurement of the frictional coefficient. An estimated value of 0.12 for the frictional coefficient was obtained from a sample of five symptom free subjects.
Cultural Context and Development of Partnership
Authors: Bhagat Devendra , Williams David D.
Published: January 2012

A university-public school partnership analysis reveals how the cultural context associated with existing institutions can both facilitate and impede the emergence of a new culture those institutions attempt to create and often involves entire cultural reforms and organizational conversion.
The Effect of Constructing Multiple-Choice Distractor Items around a Single Target Alternative
Authors: Wogalter Michael S. , Marwitz D. Bradley
Published: January 2012

The present research sought to determine whether the construction of multiple-choice alternatives based around a critical target answer would facilitate the selection of the target answer. Subjects were given a multiple-choice test consisting of 60 questions, each having four alternatives. Twenty of the 60 questions were the critical questions and were constructed to have no correct answer (i.e., asked nonsense) but appeared legitimate. One of the alternatives for the critical questions was the critical alternative, around which the other three distractor alternatives were derived. This was accomplished by systematically substituting each of the critical alternative's three components with another plausible component. This procedure produced a set of alternatives where the critical alternative was more similar to the other alternatives than they were to each other (i.e., it was the most prototypic). The results of two experiments using ranking and proportion scores showed a response bias effect: subjects selected the critical alternatives more often than would be expected by chance. Further analyses revealed that in lower ability subjects the effect disappeared when the critical alternatives were embedded in sets of distractors which had randomly ordered components. High ability subjects selected the critical alternatives more often than chance regardless of the distractors' component arrangement. The results suggest that test-makers should avoid constructing distractor alternatives around a correct alternative because the information provided in the set of alternatives may influence test-takers to select the target answer without any knowledge of the information being assessed.
Voice and Manual Control in Dual Task Situations
Authors: Leber Leray L. , Wickens Christopher D. , Bakke Christopher , Sulek Michael , Marshak William
Published: January 2012

The objective of this research was to replicate and extend an investigation of Voice and Manual Control in Dual Task Situations previously performed by Wickens et al. (1985). This study incorporated both the previous within-subject design with a much larger sample size and a novel between-subject paradigm. The repeated measures investigation minimizing asymmetric transfer between response conditions revealed significantly better performance when a verbal Sternberg task was voice controlled in combination with a manually controlled spatial tracking task. The between-subject study likewise supported this finding. The previous 1985 study's findings favoring hemispherically compatible left-handed tracking were not supported in this investigation.
An Interactive Multi-Objective Decision-Aiding System for Tactical Mission Planning
Authors: Charny Leonid , Hornsby Mary E. , Sheridan Thomas B.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes an interactive computer-aiding system for tactical aircraft mission planning. A Multiple-Objective Decision-Making approach has been applied to the tactical mission planning domain. The planner specifies a set of potential flight routes and selects an optimum one as the result of a human-computer dialogue. In this dialogue, the planner iteratively specifies acceptable constraints and desired weights on several mission-related decision objectives. The system provides graphic feedback about the merit of the selected route vis a vis the specified objectives, and allows the planner to tailor the mission route plan to meet explicit decision objectives.
Comparison of Workload Measures on Computer—Generated Primary Flight Displays
Authors: Nataupsky Mark , Abbott Terence S.
Published: January 2012

Four Air Force pilots were used as subjects to assess a battery of subjective and physiological workload measures in a flight simulation environment in which two computer-generated primary flight display configurations were evaluated. A high- and low-workload task was created by manipulating flight path complexity. Both SWAT and the NASA-TLX were shown to be effective in differentiating the high and low workload path conditions. Physiological measures were inconclusive. A battery of workload measures continues to be necessary for an understanding of the data. Based on workload, opinion, and performance data, it is fruitful to pursue research with a primary flight display and a horizontal situation display integrated into a single display.
A Taxonomic Approach to Understanding Direct Manipulation
Authors: Wolf Catherine G. , Rhyne James R.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a taxonomy for user interface techniques which is useful in understanding direct manipulation interfaces. The taxonomy is based on the way actions and objects are specified in the interface. We suggest that direct manipulation is a characteristic shared by a number of different interface techniques, rather than a single interface style. A relatively new interface method, gesture, is also described in terms of the taxonomy and some observations are made on its potential.
Using Sensor Lines to Show Control-Display Linkages on a Four Burner Stove
Authors: Osborne David W. , Ellingstad Vernon S.
Published: January 2012

This study examined the ability of sensor lines (lines drawn from a control to the display it is linked with) to quicken response times and reduce errors on a conventional (square burner pattern) four burner stove to levels shown on a stove whose four burners were arranged in a staggered pattern such that each burner was directly in line with its control.
System Requirements Development Methodology
Authors: Conroy Joseph
Published: January 2012

This concept paper describes a computer processor which assists users in developing performance requirements for new systems. The output of the processor is function based objectives, performance based system criteria and environmental conditions which may effect system performance. The system criteria are based on the cognitive decision rules of experts for assessing the effectiveness of system performance. These are obtained from a regression based technique in which the experts rate the effectiveness of a system several times, each time with different values for each of the several candidate system performance criteria.
Applications of Automatic/Control Processing Theory to Complex Tasks: An Encouraging Look
Authors: Fisk Arthur D. , Eboch Mark M.
Published: January 2012

This paper briefly outlines experiments that point to where and how automatic/control processing theory can be applied to complex training simulations of “real world” tasks. In all of these complex tasks, subjects could not simply focus in on a single stimulus and successfully perform the task. Rather, subjects were required to process combinations of stimuli for successful task completion. The pattern of data from these complex tasks is consistent with previous data collected using simple, stimulus-specific tasks. This similarity between results of previous research examining automatic/control processing and the present data points to the validity of suggesting the need for consistent mapping training of patterns of information in complex tasks. Preliminary applications of automatic/ control processing theory to instructional design and to cartography are discussed.
Cross-Modal Interference and Task Integration: Resources or Preemption Switching?
Authors: Wickens Christopher D. , Fracker Lee , Webb Jayson
Published: January 2012

Data are reviewed from experiments that have contrasted intra-modal (visual-visual) information presentation with cross-modal (visual-auditory) presentation. Five different processing mechanisms that are operating in dual stimulus tasks are described, and it is concluded that in studies where visual scanning is not required, cross-modal effects are of two classes. When the visual task is continuous (tracking), a discrete auditory stimulus will preempt tracking performance relative to a discrete visual stimulus, leading to an effective shift in allocation bias. When both tasks are discrete, the data regarding the relative advantages of cross- vs. intra-modal interference are ambivalent.
Function Modeling Applied to Human Factors Engineering Productivity Improvement
Authors: Kress Gary , Kaplan Richard P.
Published: January 2012

A function modeling methodology was used to analyze and graphically describe the activities and work products of an industrial Human Factors Engineering (HFE) group. A model was constructed representing the HFE functions and describing the information that interrelates them. Data was collected to estimate the amount of staff effort devoted to each of the functions. The model: (a) identifies where actual practice departs from desired practice; (b) pinpoints where and how critical project deliverables are generated, (c) provides the basis for a standardized approach to the conduct of HFE; and (d) serves as a training vehicle for new staff members. The results of the data collection showed that 83% of HFE activities are devoted directly to performing technical functions. These efforts reflect a “classical” Human Engineering approach which emphasizes human-machine system analysis, design and evaluation. Less staff effort is devoted to the larger Human Factors domain which is concerned, per se, with personnel subsystem issues.
Human Factors in Education: Strategic Planning for the Future
Authors: Jesse Daniel M. , Montague Donald J.
Published: January 2012

This paper will describe the progress and future design of a project to develop an expert system for strategic planning in education. The importance, the applicability, the methodology, objectives and anticipated results will be described in detail along with the educational and scientific importance such a system is capable of achieving.
The Tracometer as an Intoxication Warning Device
Authors: Noy Y. Ian
Published: January 2012

An experiment was conducted to investigate the feasibility of developing an in-vehicle skill-based drunk driver detection and deterrence system. The experiment compared two well-developed psychomotor test devices, the Tracometer and the Critical Tracking Task (CTT), for their ability to detect alcohol intoxication. The Tracometer employed a pursuit tracking task whereas the CTT employed a compensatory tracking task. Twenty male subjects, aged 19 − 30 were trained on the Tracometer and the CTT over a three day period. On two subsequent test days, they were treated with either placebo or alcoholic beverages designed to bring their peak Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) to 1.2% (1200 mg/L). On each day, the subjects were tested once before treatment and six times after treatment at hourly intervals as their BAC levels declined. The results indicate that the Tracometer was more sensitive than the CTT to the the effects of alcohol over a wide range of BAC levels. At a BAC level of .08%, performance on the Tracometer deteriorated by 16% whereas performance on the CTT deteriorated by only 7%. Using optimized pass/fail protocols, the Tracometer failed 60% of subjects with BAC in the range .08–1.0%, whereas the CTT failed 34%. At BAC levels above 1.0%, the Tracometer failed about 85% whereas the CTT failed 40%. These results clearly illustrate the potential of the Tracometer as a test of alcohol intoxication. Although the impetus behind the study was the development of drunk-driving countermeasures, the technology can be easily extended to include other applications.
The Optimism Bias and Traffic Safety
Authors: DeJoy David M.
Published: January 2012

In this study, college students were asked to rate their overall accident likelihood, driving skill, and level of safety relative to other drivers. They also made comparative risk judgements for a variety of specific accident situations. Consistent with previous research, subjects perceived themselves as safer, more skillful, and less likely to be involved in an accident than other drivers. Optimism increased with driving experience, but was unrelated to age or sex. Substantial optimism was also evident in response to the specific accident situations, and further analysis indicated that the perceived controllability of the accident was a strong predictor of optimism. The importance of controllability in this study is consistent with research on other life events, and suggests that perceptions of control play an important role in the optimism bias.
Evaluating a Spatial Task: Behavioral, Subjective, and Physiological Correlates
Authors: McCloskey Kathy
Published: January 2012

A spatial task, taken from the Criterion Task Set (CTS) battery, was used to examine task load effects on a variety of physiological indices. This task had been shown with earlier validation data (reaction time and subjective ratings) to possess three different levels of task load (Shingledecker, 1984). Task event-related evoked potentials (EPs), heart rate and heart rate variability, and eyeblink measures were obtained while ten subjects performed the three levels of the spatial task. The amplitudes of the P2, N2, and P3 of the EPs differentiated between the low task level, and the medium and high. Medium and high did not differentiate. The latencies of the N1, N2, and P3 were shorter for the low task level than for the medium and high. Again, medium and high did not differentiate. The amplitude and latency of the EP components suggest that this task possesses only two levels of information processing complexity. Heart rate and heart rate variability did not differentiate between task levels, only between a no-task baseline and all other levels of the task. Both heart rate indices did show a time-on-task effect, suggesting that these measures are good indicators of overall bodily arousal. None of the eyeblink measures showed sensitivity to any levels of the task.
Crew-Induced Load Measurement for Space Operations
Authors: Lewis Ruthan
Published: January 2012

A method has been developed to simulate and measure crew-induced and reactive loads for a variety of intravehicular and extravehicular tasks. The need for this information has expanded in parallel with the complexity of space operations, i.e. satellite servicing, on-orbit construction, use of interactive workstations, etc. The method employs the use of a dynamometer attached to an adjustable support and a 3-axis force/torque platform. Translational and rotational hand/arm forces and torques, and foot reaction forces and torques may be measured simultaneously. The apparatus has been designed for on-orbit and ground-based usage. Beyond explanation of the instrumentation, the presentation will address data on forces effected by crewmembers, and applications, implications, and integration of the information with regards to planning space operations and design of crew-interfaced items.
Integrated Operator-Plant Process Modeling and Decision Support for Allocation of Function
Authors: Schryver Jack C. , Knee Helmut E.
Published: January 2012

Human operator simulation models can play an important information role in the allocation of functions in person-machine systems. A prototype simulation model system developed at ORNL is described in which a human operator model (INTEROPS) and a nuclear power plant (NPP) process model are dynamically integrated. INTEROPS is a cognitive/ performance simulation model which is itself a dynamic integration of a SAINT task network model and a knowledge-based subsystem which reasons with uncertainty. Potential contributions of INTEROPS to NPP advanced control design are evaluated.
An Integrated Investigation into the Relative Effects of Alcohol on Various Human Behavioral Processes
Authors: Hahn Heidi Ann , Price Dennis L.
Published: January 2012

A comprehensive study of the relative effects of alcohol on various behavioral processes was conducted. The results indicated the following descending hierarchy of impairment: (1) mediational processes; (2) motor processes; (3) communication processes; and (4) perceptual processes. These findings were compared to a literature-based hierarchy developed by other authors and discrepancies were explored.
The Effect of Experience on Subjective Ratings for Aircraft and Simulator Workload during IFR Flight
Authors: Mallery Carl J.
Published: January 2012

This research is the result of a need to evaluate the effect of new complex cockpit systems on pilot workload. The goal of this research is to determine if the Pilot Objective/Subjective Workload Assessment Technique (POSWAT) ratings of workload obtained in a simulator are comparable to ratings obtained in an aircraft. In this study twenty experienced instrument rated subject pilots flew the same three simulated instrument cross-country flights. During these flights the pilots gave POSWAT workload ratings at one-minute intervals. The results show, that in general increased experience decreases POSWAT workload ratings for a given taskload.
A Componential Analysis of Pilot Decision-Making
Authors: Barnett B. , Stokes A. , Wickens C.D. , Davis T. , Rosenblum R. , Hyman F.
Published: January 2012

In an effort to construct and validate an information-processing model of pilot decision-making, a microcomputer-based system, known as MIDIS, has been developed. A parallel effort resulted in the compilation of a cognitive test battery designed to assess individual differences in those cognitive attributes determined to be important in effective decision making. The processing model of pilot judgment is validated to the extent that pilots with strengths in particular cognitive attributes perform well on those decision scenarios determined to impose demands on those same abilities. Forty professional, instructor, and student pilots served as subjects in this validation study. The results reported here represent data from twenty of the highly-experienced instrument-rated pilots. The results indicated that the cognitive test of running memory span provided a valid predictor of the optimality of pilot's judgments. A test of risk assessment predicted pilot confidence and latency in the decision choices. Few of the other tests, including a test of declarative knowledge, provided significant correlations with the three attributes of decision performance for the pilots in the group studied to date.
Cognitive Skill Acquisition: A Developmental Approach
Authors: Casey Betty Jo , Rogers Wendy A. , Fisk Arthur D.
Published: January 2012

Twenty-eight studies from five different categories of tasks were examined for age-dependent training effects across the ages of seven to ninety. Four general patterns of results emerged from these studies. First, sensorimotor differences were found across the age groups. Second, although there were definite age differences, practice effects were evident for all ages. Third, ability-dependent differences within age groups were observed. These differences may be eliminated with consistent training. Finally, performance on certain task components, primarily those utilizing well-developed automatic processes, remained relatively stable across the life span. These patterns of performance are interpreted from a “connectionist” viewpoint and explained in terms of priority and associative mechanisms of learning.
Comparing Worker Perceptions to Engineering Measurements of VDT Workstations and Environmental Conditions
Authors: Carayon Pascale , Smith Michael J. , Miezio Kathleen
Published: January 2012

Twenty-five employees of the purchasing department of a large state agency participated in the study. Overall, self-ratings of working conditions were very similar to the engineering measurements.
The Effects of Gloves on Maximum Holding Time
Authors: Cochran David J. , Bishu Ram R. , Riley Michael W.
Published: January 2012

Considerable work is now done while wearing gloves on tasks that require that considerable grip forces be exerted and maintained for extended times. The primary objective of this research was to evaluate the effects of two common working gloves on the time a person can exert a constant grip force as a function of that persons maximum grip force. A simple endurance experiment was conducted to verify that the same relationship between holding time and grip force (as a percentage of maximum grip force under the same conditions) is valid for grip with gloves as is present in other muscular exertions. Subjects were first evaluated for maximum grip force on a standard hand dynamometer with bare hands and while wearing each of the gloves. They then participated in trials to evaluate grip endurance at 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% of the maximum grip for each condition (bare hand, a leather glove, and a cotton glove). Analysis of variance was used to evaluate the data gathered to determine if the holding time differed for bare hand or glove conditions. This analysis showed no differences between the conditions. This study shows that the effect of a glove on endurance can be predicted by the effect of that glove on the maximum grip force that can be exerted. This will be of value to those persons who design or evaluate work tasks where gloves are required.
Evaluation of Conventional, Serial, and Chord Keyboard Options for Mail Encoding
Authors: Richardson Rose Mae M. , Telson Ronald U. , Koch Christopher G. , Chrysler Susan T.
Published: January 2012

The motivation for the experiment was the integration of a work station display component and a suitable data entry device. Keying performance with three candi- date keyboards was evaluated: (1) a one-handed conventional calculator keyboard, (2) a two-handed 10-key serial keyboard, and (3) a two-handed 10-key chord keyboard. Subjects were trained to criteria on a numerical data entry task and subsequently tested for performance in encoding five-digit strings. Measures of encoding response time and encoding errors showed a substantial advantage in training time for the calculator keyboard and two-handed serial keyboard over the two-handed chord keyboard.
Cultural Perspectives in Participatory Ergonomics
Authors: Imada Andrew S. , Robertson Michelle M.
Published: January 2012

This paper examines the generalizability of participatory ergonomics to different cultures. Studies using participatory strategies to introduce ergonomic solutions are reviewed across three distinct cultures. The results lead us to believe that these effects are sufficiently robust and not culture or method bound. Four lessons can be learned from these participatory interventions: 1) Interventions should build on local customs; 2) Solutions should be practical and understandable to the participating end-users; 3) Culture should be used as a resource for solving design and cross-cultural problems; and 4) Synergy between the culture and the intervention will enhance the success and magnify problems of the intervention.
The Power of Systems Science: The Synthesis of Information from Individual Disciplines Starting with Ergonomics, Organizational Design, and Management
Authors: Gallaway Glen R.
Published: January 2012

The value of information comes when it is used. The information obtained in our behavioral science disciplines needs to be synthesized to better represent a realistic description of the real world. A knowledge center for synthesizing information from various disciplines is proposed. This center would initially deal with Ergonomics/Organizational Design and Management (ODAM) information in the following thrust areas: 1) Building a information base of ergonomic and ODAM information (may be network of present bases); 2) Developing a taxonomy of the topic area; 3) Synthesizing the information; and 4) Gathering the tools that support: a) Obtaining information; and b) Use of the information.
Automatic Processing through the Back Door
Authors: Flach John M. , Grunzke Paul M.
Published: January 2012

This study examined performance in a consistent mapping visual search task in which subjects were required to make discriminations within the disjoint, target, and distractor sets as well as between the sets. The within set discrimination was variably mapped across blocks of trials. The results show strong practice effects consistent with the development of automatic processes.
Absolute Magnitude Estimation and Relative Judgement Approaches to Subjective Workload Assessment
Authors: Vidulich Michael A. , Tsang Pamela S.
Published: January 2012

Two rating scale techniques employing an absolute magnitude estimation method, were compared to a relative judgement method for assessing subjective workload. One of the absolute estimation techniques used was an unidimensional overall workload scale and the other was the multidimensional NASA-Task Load Index technique. Thomas Saaty's Analytic Hierarchy Process was the unidimensional relative judgement method used. These techniques were used to assess the subjective workload of various of single- and dual-tracking conditions. The validity of the techniques was defined as their ability to detect the same phenomena observed in the tracking performance. Reliability was assessed by calculating test-retest correlations. Within the context of the experiment, the Saaty Analytic Hierarchy Process was found to be superior in validity and reliability. These findings suggest that the relative judgement method would be an effective addition to the currently available subjective workload assessment techniques.
Dry Environments: The Influence of Low Humidity on Comfort and Health
Authors: Laviana Joseph E. , Rohles Frederick H. , Hoffberg Linda I.
Published: January 2012

Individuals are routinely subjected to dry environments. These conditions may result from geographic areas, the heating of indoor spaces, or specialized settings (e.g. commercial aircraft cabins). This paper examines the affect of low humidity from two perspectives: comfort and health. Results indicate that the dry-bulb temperature is only 7.8 times more important than relative humidity (rh) in determining the subjective thermal response, and that rh has a greater role in determining how men feel than how women feel. Additionally, it was shown that a perceivable level of annoyance is experienced by both wearers and nonwearers of soft contact lenses at or below 30% rh, and this effect becomes most pronounced after four hours. Other findings indicated that the perception of varying odor intensity levels (e.g., cigarette smoke) is higher in dry environments; several studies are also reported showing the health related benefits of humidification.
Warning Effectiveness: What Do We Need to Know
Authors: Purswell Jerry L. , Krenek Richard F. , Dorris Alan
Published: January 2012

The forensic area of practice for human factors engineers has brought into sharp focus the differences of opinion which exist regarding the effectiveness of warnings in bringing about safe behavior on the part of the user of a product. This paper addresses the major issues which the authors believe must be researched further to provide the definitive answers needed regarding the effectiveness of warnings in a variety of possible applications. A review of the literature will demonstrate that there are few studies of warning effectiveness per se, while there are many studies that address such issues as the need for warnings and presumed criteria for preparing effective warnings. It is suggested that further research is needed which addresses warning effectiveness in actual use situations, and in turn identifies the importance of such variables as stimulus energy level, information overload, risk perception, cost of compliance and the interaction of warnings, instructions and training.
Human - Machine Function Allocation in Manufacturing and Assembly Operations
Authors: Johnson Steven L. , Offodile O. Felix
Published: January 2012

The paper discusses a methodology to allocate functions to people and/or machines based upon the requirements of the tasks to be performed and the capabilities of each system. Although function allocation has been addressed within the human factors community for many years, the approach discussed offers two primary advances in the context of manufacturing and assembly systems. First, the state-of-the-art in automated systems, robotics, flexible manufacturing systems, methods analysis and human factors are integrated into a multi-disciplinary approach. Second, the methodology will provide manufacturing engineers with an easily understood procedure for assigning tasks to the appropriate system on cost/capability basis.
An Evaluation of Office Automation
Authors: Stubler William F. , Charipper Bret A. , Hanes Lewis F.
Published: January 2012

A measurement program was designed to assess benefits derived from the pilot implementation of an office automation system at the Westinghouse Nuclear Fuel Division. The system featured IBM PROFS, graphics software, and computation software hosted on an IBM mainframe computer. Managers, engineers, and secretaries were included in the test group (N = 40) and control group (N = 30) to ensure that each group accurately represented NFD. Measurement tools included an attitude survey and document evaluation logs, which were distributed to the test and control groups before and after the system was installed. In addition, a user evaluation survey was distributed to only the test group after they had had access to the system for five months. Although usage of the system was moderate, benefits were identified for activities associated with document preparation and distribution, message sending, calendar use, and computations. These benefits encouraged management to proceed with full scale implementation of the office automation system.
An Axiomatic Model of Information Presentation
Authors: Perlman Gary
Published: January 2012

The goal of information layout is to physically display information to reinforce the underlying structure of the information. In this paper, I describe an axiomatic model of information layout. The model has three levels: (1) a device-independent representation for structured information, (2) a set of axioms (or rules) relating information structure with display attributes, (3) a set of device dependent display attributes used to distinguish differences and show similarities in information structure. The model infers, using logical deductions from its axioms, how display attributes should be used to show the structure of information. A prototype software system exists that allows interactive design and evaluation of screen layouts. Future research is planned to develop an expert system to aid in the automatic design of layouts, and to refine the prototype into a usable system.
Process Control: Safety Issues and Answers in Sweden and Norway
Authors: Gardner-Bonneau Daryle Jean
Published: January 2012

During the first eight months of 1987, the author had the opportunity to visit Sweden and Norway. Since Sweden is noted as a leader with respect to occupational safety and health practices, and is also well known for its innovations in the utilization of technology, the author decided to spend some time studying safety issues and answers with regard to process control. Though the work is ongoing at the time of this report, this article contains a summary of the material collected and the observations made, to date. It should not be considered as a technical paper, but as a report of the current activities in Sweden. Individuals interested in more information about the projects discussed should contact the author.
Determining Training Requirements for Mechanical Maintenance Personnel
Authors: Freligh Carol A.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this paper, Determining Training Requirements for Maintenance Personnel, was to conclude a finished generic task analysis for mechanical maintenance personnel. This paper will provide the necessary background information to enable a group to setup a task analysis to make available the information to analyze the training requirements for mechanical maintenance personnel. Determining training requirements for different job positions within an industry that has maintenance personnel is a situation tackled by training departments on a daily basis. The bottom line is efficient and cost effective learning.
The Influence of Color on Visual Search and Subjective Discomfort Using CRT Displays
Authors: Matthews Michael L. , Mertins Karin
Published: January 2012

Visual search and decision making performance together with subjective fatigue were investigated over a four hour time block as a function of display foreground and background chromaticity, using colors matched for equivalent brightness. Although some small differences in performance related to chromaticity were observed, these were not exacerbated over time. On the basis of the performance data obtained and the subjective reports, there would appear to be no support obtained for the general recommendation to avoid the use of red and blue stimuli either alone or in combination in CRT displays.
CRT Typeface Design and Evaluation
Authors: Bender Walter , Crespo Ruth Ann , Kennedy Peter J. , Oakley Richard
Published: January 2012

Reading text from a video display screen is a relatively new modality of human communication. This new technology presents advantages and limitations never considered in the design of typefaces for printed communication. It is well known that people read faster from printed text than from a Cathode Ray Tube (CRT). This paper discusses some of the current work to improve CRT readability. Specifically, we have developed software to be used by a typography designer to design anti-aliased (or “grayscale”) CRT typefaces. A new anti-aliased typeface was designed and tested for readability. It was found that readability was significantly improved with this new typeface. This paper describes some of our recent work in this area. The typeface design software and examples of text rendered in a new typeface will be demonstrated on an analog color display.
Physiological Stresses Associated with Manual Handling of Containers of Varied Sizes and Weights: A Case Study
Authors: Genaidy Ashraf M. , Duyos Jorge R. , Asfour Shihab S.
Published: January 2012

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the physiological strain imposed on individuals engaged in unloading boxes from a truck. The actual operation was performed in one of the local industries, and was videotaped and timed. This operation served as a basis for a simulation study in the authors' laboratory. Six subjects participated in this study. Since the containers utilized in the actual operation varied greatly, empirical distributions derived from the box sizes and weights handled at that industry were developed based on a sample of 466 boxes. The frequency of handling was 20 times/min. The task duration was 30 min. Heart rate and oxygen consumption were recorded every 5 min for a period of 5 min. The results showed that the task performed can be classified as very heavy work compared to industrial tasks reported in the literature. Physiological responses showed a significant increase over time.
Lifting Physical Work Capacity as a Function of Frequency
Authors: Fernandez Jeffrey E. , Marley Robert J. , Stubbs Nancy B.
Published: January 2012

A laboratory experiment using 15 male subjects was conducted to document lifting physical work capacity over the frequency range of 2 to 12 lifts per minute and to compare these values to bicycling physical work capacity. Results indicate that bicycling PWC is significantly higher than lifting PWC at the 0.05 level. A variation in lifting PWC as a function of frequency was observed. This could be attributed to lifting technique. Task design should, therefore, not only consider lifting PWC but also the frequency of lift.
Team Performance of a Dynamic Resource Allocation Task: Comparison of Shared versus Isolated Work Setting
Authors: Wilson Denise L. , McNeese Michael D. , Brown Clifford E.
Published: January 2012

The utility of shared versus isolated operator/display setting was examined in the context of a complex, dynamic, team decisionmaking task. Both alphanumeric and graphic display formats were utilized as well as moderate and fast information presentation rates. Performance scores were significantly higher and subjective workload ratings significantly lower for the graphic display and moderate information rate conditions. No differences were found for shared versus isolated operator/display setting except in the combined “worst case” condition of alphanumeric format and fast information rate, where a slight advantage was found for the shared operator/display setting.
Development of a System Engineer Workstation
Authors: Theisen Charles J. , Hoffman William J.
Published: January 2012

This report describes human factor engineering participation in the design of a system manager's workstation. The project entailed the integration of 6 different keyboards and a wide variety of display subsystems into a single keyboard and 5 CTR displays. Due to the complexity of the system a team approach to the design was taken which entailed instructing and guiding experts in the use of human factors principles in the development of designs. The results were well received by a review committee of system experts while being developed within an extremely time compressed schedule.
Cognitive Perspectives on Map Displays for Helicopter Flight
Authors: Harwood Kelly
Published: January 2012

Currently accessible technologies are providing entirely new display concepts for enhancing helicopter navigation. Yet the effectiveness of such displays depends on the extent to which they are configured according to principles from research on human performance. Computer generated map displays in the present study were configured according to previous research on maps, navigational problem solving, and spatial cognition in large scale environments. Interest centered on the representation of different spatial relationships that would best support helicopter navigational problem solving. One map display emphasized the global relationships between objects in the environment. The other map showed the pilot's relationship to objects as he travelled through the environment Twenty skilled pilots used the maps to complete several navigational tasks that occurred within a realistic simulation program tailored for helicopter navigation. Findings indicate that the type of task and mode of flight (low level or Nap of the Earth (NOE)) are important determinants of map display effectiveness.
Advanced Warning/Caution/Advisory Displays for Fighter Aircraft
Authors: Reising John M. , Hartsock David C.
Published: January 2012

The primary purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of using color cathode ray tube (CRT) checklists and programmable multifunction switches to display warning/caution/advisory (W/C/A) information. This study compared three different display formats on speed and accuracy of recognition and execution of emergency procedures. The following three different W/C/A formats were tested: 1) Abbreviated title of the emergency written on a CRT [e.g., ELEC SYS/MAIN GEN], with the pilot using his knee pad checklist to complete the required steps, 2) Complete title with the checklist shown on a CRT, [e.g., MAIN GENERATOR FAILURE/ELEC RESET SWITCH- DEPRESS], and 3) Complete title with the checklist plus the pictorial switch layout, [i.e., CRT showing location of switch to be pressed.] Results showed that there is a definite advantage in using a CRT W/C/A checklist. Event time for the Abbreviated Title/Manual Checklist was significantly longer than either the Complete Title/CRT Checklist or the Complete Title/CRT Checklist with pictorials. However, there was no difference in event time between the latter two.