bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender and Handedness in Grip Strength — A Double Whammy for Females
Authors: Miller Glenn D. , Freivalds Andris
Published: January 2012

With increasing number of women entering into jobs traditionally held by men, it has been found that tools and equipment originally deisgned for the “average man” do not fit women, smaller mean or other persons. Thirty college students (7 females, 8 dominant left handed males and 8 dominant right handed males) squeezed alternately with both dominant and non-dominant hands twice a Lafayette dynamometer at 5 grip span settings.

The results indicated that grip strength increased with increasing grip span up to the preferred grip span. Female grip strength was 53% of male grip strength. The non-dominant hand produced 89.6% of dominant hand grip strength. More interestingly both male and female left handers exihibited nearly identical grip strengths for both hands, leading one to suspect that left handed people are being forced to adapt to a right handed world. It thus appears that certain female workers may be at a double disadvantage with gender and left handedness reducing grip strength by 2/3. However, tools and equipment can be modified to accommodate weaker individuals.
Demographics Profile and Safety Aspects Pertaining to the Mining Population
Authors: Butani Shail J.
Published: January 2012

In order for the Bureau of Mines (BOM) to focus health and safety research on the human factor element of the mining operations, it is essential to quantify and characterize the composition of the entire mining workforce with respect to occupation, job experience, age, education, region, etc. The BOM in 1986 began conducting a probability sample survey to measure the population characteristics of the mining industry workforce. The demographics profile provides information to questions such as, “What is the socio-economic background of the population?”, “What are the differences between the various groups of workforce?”, etc. This paper will discuss the utilization of the population characteristics with respect to the analysis of the mining industry accident data which are being collected on a continuing basis. In particular, this paper will outline how the demographic data are used in identifying those sectors of the population that are exhibiting higher than average accident rates. This information will be used to improve and expand mine health and safety research, and to customize training and safety programs for specifically identified demographic sectors of the mining industry population.
Research to Determine the Frequency and Cause of Injury Accidents in Underground Mining
Authors: Shaw Brian E. , Sanders Mark S.
Published: January 2012

A systems approach was used to investigate 188 underground mining accidents. A team of raters assessed the relative contribution of 10 causal factors in each accident case. The results illustrate the importance of human error and management in the causal chain of accidents.
Online Process Observation
Authors: Kaplan Bruce
Published: January 2012

Process observation techniques for face-to-face interactions were applied in the online environment found useful for identifying some fundamental issues in the design and implementation of computer conferences for training. Key questions were found to include: How receptive will students be to computer conference delivered training; How is effective participation defined online and what participation requirements, if any, are necessary to create a successful learning environment online; What level of formality and degree of structure is useful; What kind of community development or social life is required to support training through computer conference? Exploring these questions about online process and observation provided guidance to those working to develop effective online instruction.
Context, Repetition and Synthesized Speech Intelligibility
Authors: Merva Monica A. , Williges Beverly H.
Published: January 2012

Two studies were conducted to explore the effects of various parameters on rule-based synthetic speech intelligibility. Experiment I examined the effect of situational context clues and speech rate on synthesized speech intelligibility. Subjects who received pragmatic context information prior to each message had transcription error rates 50% lower than those who received no context information. Speech rates of 250 words per minute (wpm) yielded significantly more transcription errors than rates of 180 wpm. In Experiment II, the effects of speech rate, message repetition, and location of information in a message were examined. Transcription accuracy was best for messages spoken at 150 or 180 wpm and for messages repeated either twice or three times. Words at the end of messages were transcribed more accurately than words at the beginning of messages. Subjective ratings indicated that subjects were aware of errors when incorrectly transcribing a message even though no feedback was provided.
Perceptual Learning: Theory and Practice
Authors: Fisher Donald L. , Young Christopher
Published: January 2012

Perceptual learning is required in a number of different contexts. Certain paradigms have been found to speed this learning, others to slow if not altogether inhibit it. The objectives of this study are twofold. First, an experimental test is described of an alternative explanation or model of the finding that perceptual learning is facilitated in consistent mapping tasks, but not in varied mapping ones (Schneider and Shiffrin, 1977). Second, it is shown how the model can be used to select from a set of equally acceptable graphical or symbolic representations of an object that representation which minimizes the time it takes to find the object in a visual search task.
The Effective Use of Color for Text on the IBM 5153 Color Display
Authors: Lalomia Mary J. , Happ Alan J.
Published: January 2012

The goal of this research was to provide a set of criteria for the effective use of color on the IBM 5153 Color Display. Available guidelines provide direction but not the detail required for application programmers. This study examined character legibility and subjective preference for color combinations in text in an application program. The effectiveness of color combinations was defined as a joint function of response time and subjective rating. The graphs of foreground/background color relationships show the observers' performance as a function of their preference. The results indicated the flexibility of black or blue backgrounds. The findings are discussed with respect to principles of human perception.
Fit for Humans: A New Look for the Finite Intersection Test
Authors: Barry Timothy P. , Reising John
Published: January 2012

The recent introduction of microcomputers to the business and research communities has vastly increased the population of users exposed to general purpose software programs. These users, however, often lack the level of sophistication and computer expertise characterized by those who interact with minicomputers or mainframes, making the development of user-friendly general purpose software very challenging. This paper describes the conversion of a multivariate statistical software package from operation on a mainframe computer to a microcomputer and the redesign of its human-computer interface, allowing the program to be employed by a more diverse user population.
Further Investigation of Contrast Sensitivity and Visual Acuity in Pilot Detection of Aircraft
Authors: O'Neal Melvin R. , Miller Robert E.
Published: January 2012

Contrast sensitivity (CS) has been reported (Ginsburg et al., 1983) to be strongly related to pilots' aircraft detection performance; however, examination of their results shows a lack of consistency for the CS at any particular spatial frequency to correlate with detection, even for days with similar visibility conditions. To further investigate this relationship, sixty-seven (67) USAF pilots were divided among 8 groups, individually isolated in a bus near the end of a runway on separate days, and detected a T-38 jet aircraft during about 8 landings. CS was measured using the criterion-free two-alternative, temporal forced-choice (2 AFC) technique on the Optronix and with the Vistech VCTS 6500 chart. Visual acuity was assessed at three contrast levels using 3%, 6%, & 85% contrast Regan charts. The mean detection distance of each group ranged from 4.77 to 6.73 miles, and intersubject difference within any group was 0.64 to 2.21 miles. For these partly-cloudy to cloudy weather conditions, neither contrast sensitivity nor visual acuity correlated well with pilot detection of actual aircraft. There was a lack of consistency for the CS at any particular spatial frequency to correlate with detection distance. The best indicator of the pilots with worse detection distances was the performance on the 6% contrast visual acuity chart; with all 5 pilots in the lower 10% of visual performance also being the worst or second worst at aircraft detection in their group.
Contrast Sensitivity as a Predictor of Complex Target Detection
Authors: Shinar David , Gilead Ehud
Published: January 2012

A class of undergraduate students were screened for their visual acuity and contrast sensitivity on Ginsburg's charts. The subjects obtaining the highest and lowest contrast sensitivity scores were further tested on their complex target detection time. The complex targets consisted of a tank or a human form against a background of a mountainous terrain. The main finding was that target detection time for the high contrast sensitivity subjects was less than half of that of the low contrast sensitivity subjects. Differences in visual acuity between the two groups did not explain the differences in reaction time.
Effects of Common Fluorescent Illumination on the Farnsworth-Munsell 100-Hue Test
Authors: Calhoun Christopher S.
Published: January 2012

Farnsworth-Munsell 100-Hue test (FM-100) error scores were compared for two illuminating conditions. The first illuminant was a simulation of CIE standard illuminant C, the recommended illuminant for the FM-100, and the second illuminant was a commonly used fluorescent. An evaluation of some common error patterns was also performed.
Towards a New Approach to Vision: Applications to Robots and Humans
Authors: Kreifeldt John G. , Chuang Ming C.
Published: January 2012

A description of a novel and very speculative approach to new research directions for human vision with application to robotic vision is described. The goal of the approach is to propose a plausible, implementable, spatial perception model for human vision and apply this model to a stereo robot vision system. The model is based on computer algorithms variously called “Multidimensional Scaling”, well known in psychology and sociology but relatively unknown in engineering. These algorithms can reconstruct a spatially accurate model to a high level of metric precision of a “configuration of points” from low quality, error prone non-metric data about the configuration. ALSCAL – a general purpose computer package adaptable for this purpose is being presently evaluated. This is a departure from typical engineering approaches which are directed toward gathering a low volume of highly precise referenced data about the positions of selected points in the visual scene and substitutes instead an approach of gathering a high volume of very low precision relative data about the interpoint spacings. It would seem that the latter approach is the one actually used by the human vision system.

The results are highly encouraging in that the agreement between test configurations of two and three dimensional configurations of points are very faithfully reconstructed from as low as 10 points in a configuration using only rank ordered (i.e. nonmetric) information about interpoint spacings. The reconstructions are remarkably robust even under human-like “fuzzy” imprecision in visual measurements.
Display Formatting: An Expert System Application
Authors: Gehlen Jean R. , Schwartz David
Published: January 2012

Expert systems must often rely on probabilistic information to solve complex problems. Computer output may consist of more than one possible solution, leaving the final decision to the user. The amount of output and its mode of presentation need to be tailored to the application. In situations requiring fast and accurate decision making, as in military systems, output must be presented in a concise and easy to interpret format. Six presentation variables which could affect alternative selection performance were examined in an experiment: information quantity (4 or 8 numbered alternative values), format (tabular or bar graph), order (ordinal presentation of the alternative numbers or their associated values), bar graph layout (vertical or horizontal bars), bar graph labels (no labeling or labeling of each bar with its associated value), and table type (probability or rank values). The variables were combined into 24 different display formats; each of 24 subjects was tested on all the formats. The task consisted of finding the probability or rank values in the order specified on the top of the CRT screen (high value to low or low to high) and entering the associated alternative numbers on a keyboard. Mean response time and mean errors, over five trials, were the measures of performance on each display format. Results of the analyses indicated that the best display format in terms of the speed and accuracy of selection performance was the 4-alternative vertical bar graph with ordered probabilities and labeled bar values.
Influence of Status on Group Interaction Processes: Electronic Mail versus Face-To-Face Discussions
Authors: Balasubramaniam Jayanti
Published: January 2012

Experimental studies conducted by Siegel et al. (1986) revealed that members of decision making groups participated more equally in computer-mediated discussions than in face-to-face discussions. These studies dealt with group of peers. The purpose of this study was to test whether computer media has an equalizing affect on participation of members of different formal statuses. The experimental design and procedure were similar to the previous study. The main difference was that each group included one high status member and three low status members and all members were of the same gender, in order to avoid effect of diffusion status. The experiment showed that, as expected, the computer media had equalizing affect on participation of group members of different formal status. While in face-to-face discussions, high status members initiated discussion more frequently, spoke more, and were more task-oriented than low status members, in computer-mediated discussions, these measures did not differ significantly for members of different statuses.
Distributed Situation Assessment under Varying Environmental Conditions
Authors: Wong Clifford K. , Lyman John
Published: January 2012

This paper describes a study that is currently examining distributed problem solving performance in a simulated, dynamic battlefield situation assessment task, using computers as the interface between problem solvers and the simulated environment. There are four objectives of this study. First, identify any possible heuristics or strategies used by the group members in dealing with the problem. Second, observe how distributed situation assessment performance varies with environmentally imposed demands. Third, study human communication in both stressed and unstressed situations. Finally, examine how specific group communication protocols employed under different environmental conditions influence situation assessment performance. Thus, the overall objective of the study is to help identify and characterize human problem solving performance and human-machine performance characteristics that emerge when a computer intermediary resource is made an integral part of a distributed problem solving situation.
Evaluation of Total Contract Training (TCT) Systems
Authors: Childs Jerry M. , Smith Bruce A.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes factors to be addressed in the evaluation of Total Contract Training (TCT) systems. TCT is increasingly being adopted by the military for the development, implementation, and management of total training systems.
Cockpit Automation Concept Development for the NUH-60 (STAR) Aircraft
Authors: Riley Daniel D. , Stringer Paul G.
Published: January 2012

A study was performed to derive an automation and avionics integration design concept for the NUH-60 Systems Testbed for Avionics Research (STAR) aircraft. The STAR, a one-of-a-kind reconfiguration of the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, is being developed by the U.S. Army Avionics Research and Development Activity to provide a flight demonstrator and research vehicle for state-of-the-art cockpit technology. The work was directed toward determining cockpit design preferences associated with single-pilot performance of the Army scout and utility missions. Emphasis was placed on high workload phases of the missions during which eyes-out-of-the-cockpit and hands-on-controls performance capabilities would be most crucial. A number of cockpit-based design alternatives in the areas of communication, navigation, aircraft survivability equipment (ASE) operations, subsystem status monitoring, and aircraft performance computation and prediction were systematically derived and proposed.
Spatial Cognition and Navigation
Authors: Aretz Anthony J.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes an experiment that provides data for the development of a cognitive model of pilot flight navigation. The experiment characterizes navigational awareness as the mental alignment of two frames of reference: 1) the ego centered reference frame that is established by the forward view out of the cockpit, and 2) the world centered reference frame that is established by the aircraft's location on a map. The data support a model involving at least two components: 1) the perceptual encoding of the navigational landmarks, and 2) the mental rotation of the map's world reference frame into alignment with the ego centered reference frame. The quantitative relationships of these two factors are provided as possible inputs for a computational model of spatial cognition during flight navigation.
Data Link Communications in the National Airspace System
Authors: Lee Alfred T.
Published: January 2012

In the near future, conventional radio communications, currently the primary medium for the transfer of information between aircraft and ground stations, will be replaced by digital data link. This paper briefly describes this technology and summarizes what are believed to be the principal human factor issues associated with data link implementation in the airspace system. Integration of data link communications with existing systems on the flight deck and in the Air Traffic Control system is discussed with regard for both near term implementation and longer term operational issues.
The Effect of Pressure Suit Gloves on Hand Performance
Authors: O'Hara John M.
Published: January 2012

The effects of pressure gloves on human hand capabilities is a major concern in the performance of extravehicular activity (EVA) for space maintenance and construction missions. The effects of EVA gloves on six hand performance domains was investigated in this NASA sponsored research. They were range of motion, strength, tactile perception, dexterity, fatigue, and comfort. All tests were designed to be performed in a glove box using the barehand as well as the glove at 0 and 4.3 pressure differentials. Ten subjects participated in the test in a repeated measures design. The results of the experiments are summarized in this paper.
Age-Related Decrements in Automobile Instrument Panel Task Performance
Authors: Hayes Brian C. , Kurokawa Ko , Wierwille Walter W.
Published: January 2012

This research was undertaken, in part, to determine the magnitudes of performance decrements associated with automotive instrument panel tasks as a function of driver age. Driver eye scanning and dwell time measures and task completion measures were collected while 24 drivers aged 18 to 72 performed a variety of instrument panel tasks as each drove an instrumented vehicle along preselected routes. The results indicated a monotonically increasing relationship between driver age and task completion time and the number of glances to the instrument panel. Mean glance dwell times, either to the roadway or the instrument, were not significantly different among the various age groups. The nature of these differences for the various task categories used in the present study was examined.
Factors to Consider When Designing Vehicles for Older Drivers
Authors: Yanik Anthony J.
Published: January 2012

As the Baby Boom generation gradually moves into its later years, that movement will become a Senior Boom that will have a dramatic effect upon the design of products entering the marketplace. To respond to this market, engineers and designers will require a good understanding and awareness of the changes that take place in vision and cognition as a result of the aging process, and how these changes affect the interaction of older adults with their vehicle systems such as controls and displays, mirrors, entry and exit, and lighting. This paper is an attempt to bring that understanding to the designer and engineer, as based upon current research.
Aging, Reaction Time, and Stages of Information Processing
Authors: Vercruyssen Max , Carlton Barbara L. , Diggles-Buckles Virginia
Published: January 2012

Using Sternberg's (1969) Additive Factors Method (AFM), previous investigations in search of the locus of age-related slowing in reactive capacity have found conflicting results possibly due to inconsistencies in research methodologies. This experiment was conducted to examine age differences in the performance of AFM intratask manipulations of a reaction time task using both fixed and variable foreperiod conditions with subject testing at both naive and practiced skill levels. Twenty male subjects, ten young and ten old, performed a visual four-choice RT task with intratask manipulations of stimulus-degradation, stimulus-response compatibility, and response-stimulus intervals (RSIs were fixed at 0, 2, and 5 sec and variable with random presentations at 0, 2, and 5 sec), once when subjects were naive and again when practiced. The results varied by level of practice and RSI, but clearly the older subjects had difficulty with the intratask manipulations. The older subjects took twice as long, on the average, to respond. Interactions of age by compatibility suggest that, according to the AFM, with age comes inordinately long delays in the response selection stage of information processing. Conclusions are made with caution since this research points to limitations and methodological confounds which serve to explain many of the equivocal findings in previous studies.
Activities of Daily Living of the Elders — A Task Analytic Approach
Authors: Weber Ruth , Czaja Sara , Bishu Ram
Published: January 2012

Human factors research, which focusses on matching human capabilities and limitations with different environmental and task demands, has been wanting in the areas of elderly population. The main objective of this research was to use a task analytic approach to identify the demand profiles for a list of daily activities of the elderly. 66 independently living elderly persons were videotaped performing 25 separate activities of daily. A computerized task analytic approach was used to analyze the activities. Tasks were described through a set of descriptors such as action (e.g., reposition), demand (e.g., carry), object (e.g., broom), body part (e.g., hand), posture (e.g., bend), location (e.g., wash room) and frequency. Crosstabulations were performed on the data to determine pattern of relationships amongst the various task descriptors, both within, and between activities. In terms of demands, few activities account for a large proportion. Lifting/lowering, push/pull appear to be the predominant actions. Relationship among task, posture, body part and demands were significant.
The Study of Home Safety Problems for Older Disabled Persons: A Multi-Dimensional Approach
Authors: Watzke J. , Smith D.B.D. , Somerville N. , Verran A.
Published: January 2012

The presentation features beginning efforts on a 5 year project concerned with the identification of home safety problems and technological solutions for older disabled persons. First, the multi-dimensional model guiding the project is presented. Second, pilot survey data concerned with 72 older persons' home accident histories, risk perceptions associated with everyday activities, and tendencies to engage in risky in-home behaviors are discussed. Finally, preliminary survey data from 30 “In-home assessment” professionals will be discussed. These data Identify environmental, functional, and psychological in-home safety problems for elderly persons for the given daily activities stipulated by the project's model.
Using Databases in the Design of User Interfaces for Complex Systems
Authors: Allen Donald M. , Donohoo Daniel T. , Muto William H.
Published: January 2012

Because of the increasing complexity and size of systems for which user interfaces must be designed, manual analysis of user and system requirements are inadequate. Methods for employing database tools in top down design strategies have been developed to manage design information in the development of user interfaces for large and complex systems. These methods have been useful in the design of user interfaces that are internally consistent with the user's model of the system and that are consistent across related software applications.
The Mechanics of Representing Knowledge
Authors: Simmons Dick B. , Escamilla Terry D.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes mechanical knowledge representation schemes found in several popular expert system building tools (ESBTs). In order to realize the full potential of ESBTs, it must be possible to develop a knowledge base in one ESBT and transfer the knowledge into another. Porting a knowledge base across ESBTs requires a clear understanding of the mechanical knowledge representation properties supported by each tool. In the following discussion, properties considered include: canonicity; truth value; plausibility, certainty, and possibility (PCP); temporality; and procedural knowledge. The nature of each property is described along with comments on related knowledge base characteristics. A summary table appears below relating these properties to several popular ESBTs. Overlap found in many of the mechanical knowledge representation properties suggests that automatic knowledge base translation is feasible.
An Expert “Critiquer” for Propulsion Gear Design: A Case Study in Intelligent Decision Support
Authors: McKinley Ellen K. , Mauldin Michael L. , Roth Emilie M.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes an “intelligent” designer's aid that was developed to support the design of marine propulsion gears. Key elements of the system include: conversion of gear design formulas from a procedural to a declarative form to facilitate inspection; a direct-manipulation interface; and encoding of “expert” design constraint knowledge. The case study demonstrates that delivering “expert knowledge” is often only a small element of an “intelligent” support system, and provides a concrete illustration of the importance of a cognitive task analysis in defining the elements of an effective support system. This design solution should have applicability to other engineering design tasks.
A Dynamic User Adaptable Menu System: Linking it all Together
Authors: Chin John P.
Published: January 2012

Creation and traversal of links in a user adaptable menu was examined for syntagmatically and paradigmatically related targets. One group searched for paradigmatic related targets within the same intermediate category under different superordinate categories, while another searched for syntagmatic related targets belonging to different intermediate categories under the same superordinate. Users with syntagmatic targets created and traversed more superordinate category links, while users with paradigmatic targets traversed more intermediate category links. As predicted, more horizontal links at the same hierarchical level were created and traversed than diagonal links joining different levels. Overall, users tended to create links forming hierarchical networks.
Educating Engineering Psychologists: Are we “Going around in Academic Circles”?*
Authors: Beringer Dennis B. , Martin David W.
Published: January 2012

In 1972 Hunt, Howell, and Roscoe examined and compared the goals of various educational programs for engineering psychologists. Two years later Martin considered “What is wrong with human factors students?” The present treatise is an attempt to discover whether we are operating in a closed universe and have in fact come round to our starting point or have progressed in our attempts to equip students for gainful employment. Comparisons are drawn between the state of the educational process then and its present condition, including data on basic skills (NAEP, Spring 1989) and higher-level thinking abilities (anecdotal and empirical) or lack thereof. Contemporary problems are outlined and sources of these difficulties are identified where possible. Problem areas include deficiencies in student preparation, academic and industrial short-term corporate memory, supply-demand communication, economic forces, and the issue of certification (individuals and programs). The authors conclude by examining where current trends may be taking us.
Lighting the Computerized Office: A Comparative Study of Parabolic and Lensed-Indirect Office Lighting Systems
Authors: Hedge Alan , Sims William , Becker Frank
Published: January 2012

A comparative field survey of the effects of two alternative lighting systems, a parabolic downlighting system and a ceiling suspended, lensed- indirect lighting system, on computer workers in a virtually windowless office was conducted. A questionnaire, collecting data on work content, perception of ambient environmental conditions including office lighting, work-related health symptoms, job stress and job satisfaction, and self-reported productivity was completed by 96 workers. Results show that the lensed-indirect lighting system was rated significantly more favorably on several subjective lighting quality scales, and significantly more appropriate for computer based work. Workers reported less problems with glare on their computer screen and with work being hindered, fewer eye problems (tired eyes, trouble focusing eyes), better productivity, and significantly higher satisfaction for the lensed-indirect system compared with parabolic lighting.
Crew Quarters for Space Station
Authors: Mount F. E.
Published: January 2012

The only long-term United States manned space mission completed has been Skylab, which has similarities as well as differences to the proposed Space Station. With the exception of Skylab missions, there has been a dearth of experience on which to base the design of the individual Space Station Freedom crew quarters. Shuttle missions commonly do not have sleep compartments, only “sleeping arrangements”. There are provisions made for each crewmember to have a sleep restraint and a sleep liner, which are attached to a bulkhead or a locker. When the Shuttle flights began to have more than one working shift, crew quarters became necessary due to noise and other disturbances caused by crew task-related activities. Shuttle missions that have planned work shifts have incorporated sleep compartments. To assist in gaining more information and insight for the design of the crew quarters for the Space Station Freedom, a survey was given to current crewmembers with flight experience. The results from this survey were compiled and integrated with information from the literature covering space experience, privacy, and human factors issues.
An Evaluation of the Signposting System in Large Subway Station
Authors: Arnegard Ruth J. , Hammontree Monty L. , Montgomery Melinda J. , Pearson Gwen L. , Zwaga Harm J. G.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to objectively evaluate the signposting system within the Metro Center subway station of the WMATA (Washington Metro Area Transit Authority). The approach taken was: first, to estimate the prevalence of passenger behaviors indicative of deficiencies in wayfinding; second, to evaluate the adequacy of the signposting within various decision areas of the station; and finally, to evaluate the individual components of the signage system.

The first objective was addressed by observing 507 passengers selected via a pseudo-random sampling technique. From this sample an overview of traffic patterns was developed and it was determined that roughly 7% of these passengers followed a route that did not comply with the directions provided by the stations sign posting system. It was further found that an additional 2% asked for direction. These figures were combined with data provided by the WMATA to project that 6,000 to 7,000 of the passengers disembarking a train within Metro Center will evidence some form of inefficient wayfinding behavior each day. To address the second question portions of the randomly sampled data were combined with data gathered from a selectively sampled group of passengers operationally defined as needing wayfinding assistance (n = 359). This data was analyzed to determine the relative difficulty that information needy passengers had in finding their way through the various areas of the station. The final objective was addressed by comparing individual components of the signage system to current human factors guidelines.
Technological Support for Group Work: The Merits and Limitations of Computer-Supported Cooperative Work
Authors: Cornell Paul , Luchetti Robert , Mack Lisbeth A. , Olson Gary M. , Stone Phil , Sundstrom Eric
Published: January 2012

There is a strong trend in American business towards the use of teams and groups. New products are being introduced to support this emerging work style. A new field of study, commonly known as computer-supported cooperative work (CSCW), has emerged which focuses on provided electronic support for group activities. One particularly active area is the electronic meeting room, where computers support teams meeting in the same time and place. These facilities typically provide meeting participants with a terminal, keyboard and mouse and link them to a large public display. Existing rooms, some of which have been in operation for several years, accommodate anywhere from two to 48 people. To date, most of the research attention has been devoted to developing the hardware and software for these facilities. This focus is shifting and research is now underway addressing the impact of CSCW on group performance and viability.

This panel has three objectives: to discuss the merits and limitations of CSCW in the context of organizational, environmental and technological factors, to predict its potential impact now and in the future, and to discuss a research agenda.

The opinions of the panelists are mixed. Some feel CSCW has already proven its value, even though the technology is in its infancy and the data are anecdotal–its worth will only improve with time. Others are concerned about trying to design and provide tools for a process that is not well defined or measured–other more important issues need to be addressed first. Consensus exists on the need for more empirical research, but the nature and priorities of that research agenda is a subject of debate.
Public Knowledge and Understanding of Overhead Electrical Power Lines: A Second Look
Authors: Vaubel Kent P. , Donner Kimberly A. , Parker Susan L. , Laux Lila F. , Laughery Kenneth R.
Published: January 2012

Public knowledge and understanding of the hazards associated with overhead power lines were examined in the greater Houston, Texas area. A 1988 public opinion survey was conducted as a follow-up to a similar 1982 survey which found the public to be ill-informed about power lines. Partly as a result of these 1982 findings, the Houston Lighting and Power Company initiated a public education program aimed at increasing its customers' power line hazard knowledge. The program consisted of TV and radio broadcasts, newspaper advertisements, and bill inserts (stuffers). The purpose of the present research was to determine the effects of this educational program. 306 respondents were interviewed by telephone over a two month period. Results of the present survey were similar to those found in 1982 indicating virtually no change occurred in power line hazard knowledge as a result of the safety education program. Specifically, people did not know that power lines are uninsulated, nor did they have an understanding of the amount of electricity transmitted by these lines.
Modifying Fault Diagnosis Strategies
Authors: Sullivan Marc A. , Boggs George J. , Dobroth Kathryn M.
Published: January 2012

This study investigated the ability of trained diagnosticians to alter their strategies in situations where either time or testing must be kept to a minimum. Four subjects, extensively trained in previous experiments on fault diagnosis, participated in time bonus and testing efficiency bonus conditions. They isolated faults in networks of 25 nodes connected by links. In the time bonus condition, subjects were rewarded for the number of problems completed within a time limit. In the test bonus condition, subjects were rewarded for minimizing the number of tests used to diagnose a fault. Total diagnosis time was lower in the time bonus condition, and the number of tests was lower in the test bonus condition. In the time bonus condition, subjects tended to make initial tests more rapidly than they did in the test bonus condition, and the location of initial tests was relatively “shallow” in the network. The between-subject variability in diagnosis time was larger in the test bonus condition than in the time bonus condition. There was no significant difference for between-subject variability in testing efficiency. These results suggest two important conclusions regarding fault diagnosis. First, trained diagnosticians can rapidly adapt their diagnosis strategies to changes in their problem domain. Second, explicit payoffs can, in some cases, reduce the individual differences in fault diagnosis performance. This appears to be partly due to strategies becoming more similar under explicit payoffs. It is suggested that in future studies the use of explicit payoffs should be considered.
Weight Discriminability and Subjective Assessment of Load Heaviness: A Pilot Study
Authors: Karwowski Waldemar , Shumate Craig , Pongpatana Nai , Yates James W.
Published: January 2012

The main objectives of this pilot study were to investigate human ability to: 1) estimate weight of boxes on a lifting task, 2) discriminate among different levels of load, and 3) relate this ability to subjective perception of load heaviness expressed in terms of linguistic descriptors. The effects of color and load differential, defined as a constant weight difference among a series of five boxes, on perception of load heaviness, were also studied. It was shown that the human ability to discriminate among weights of boxes lifted is severely impaired as the load differential decreases below 4 lbs. In addition, as weight of the box exceeds 30 lbs., the difficulty in load differentiation and load estimation, as measured by the number of errors made, significantly increases. This study also suggests that the use of linguistic (verbal) descriptors in the estimation of weights of boxes lifted from the floor to table height, allows for better judgement than the use of numerical values alone.
Physical Demands of Bakery Workers
Authors: Doolittle T. L. , Daniel Barton
Published: January 2012

Job analyses were conducted at three bakeries of a West Coast company to determine the metabolic and strength demands imposed upon the workers. The physically demanding tasks were consolidated into four job families. Masses, distances, frequencies and other data were obtained. From these it was determined that individuals were working at 3.5 to 4.0 METs continuously with peek efforts reaching 5 METs. Strength requirements exceeded the NIOSH action limit for some tasks. Preassignment screening standards were recommended as an administrative control.
Development and Evaluation of Regression Models for the Prediction of Human Torque Strength Applied in the Prone Position
Authors: Weaver Thomas , Deivanayagam Subramanian
Published: January 2012

This paper describes an experimental investigation conducted to develop and test predictive models for human torque strength in simulated maintenance tasks performed in the prone position. Eight linear regression models were developed for the prediction of human torque strength applied with a socket wrench while lying in the prone position. The models utilized anthropometric and strength data from 40 subjects in conjunction with task point location variables in their formulation. The predictability of each model was evaluated by comparing the observed and predicted torque values from 10 additional subjects.
Exercise as a Prophylactic Device against Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Williams Thomas L. , Smith Leo A. , Herrick Richard T.
Published: January 2012

The null hupothesis that participation in an on-the-job strength and flexibility exercise program typical of those directed toward prevention of musculoskeletal stress has no prophylactic effect against carpal tunnel syndrome when used as an intervention measure in a population of female garment workers was examined. Grip strength, Phelan's test results, and hand/wrist thermograms obtained by liquid crystal thermography were taken on an experimental group of female employees in a southern garment manufacturing facility before, after five weeks, and after ten weeks of an exercise program and compared with data obtained from a control group. Although the test results suggested the exercise program may have had some benefit, the null hypothesis could not be rejected. An engineering economic analysis, assuming the exercise program was effective and implemented throughout the corporation, indicated the payback period would be approximately eleven years thus casting doubt on its economic efficacy also.
Accuracy of a Ratio-Estimation Method to Set Maximum Acceptable Weights in Lifting Tasks
Authors: Morrissey Stephen J. , Bittner Alvah C.
Published: January 2012

This study examined the accuracy with which trained and conditioned females could set Maximum Acceptable Weights (MAWs) using ratio estimation. Examined were two lifting ranges, floor-to-knuckle and knuckle-to-shoulder, and four lift frequencies (lifts every 9-, 20-, 60-, and 120-seconds). In each of the eight conditions subjects set the MAW using the method of adjustment. Immediately after the MAW had been set, the task was changed, performed for a few cycles, and rated using ratio estimation. This rating was used to establish an estimated MAW for the second lifting task. On a later day, the MAW was set for the second task using the method of adjustment and the MAW for the original task estimated with ratio estimation. This allowed comparison of the accuracy of MAWs set by psychophysical and ratio estimation methods as affected by the frequency and lifting zone of the standard task. Consistent with previous research there were significant effects on the MAW due to frequency of lift and the lift range. Also, and importantly, there were no significant differences between MAWs set by ratio estimation and by the traditional method of adjustment (p>0.6). This indicates that ratio estimation is an accurate method to quickly establish MAWs for a variety of lifting tasks. This indicates that MAWs for entire classes of lifting tasks can be quickly and accurately determined with ratio estimation.
The Role of Communications in Group Operations of Automated Systems
Authors: Hulin Charles L.
Published: January 2012

This symposium develops a framework for the study and interpretation of communication and automation effects in the operation of complex social-technical systems. Three empirical studies are reported that investigate these sources of variance in group performance on partially automated systems. Both the conceptual framework and the results of the three studies suggest a need to expand our conceptualization of operator/system interfaces to acknowledge that many such interfaces are more properly viewed as group/system interfaces. This expanded framework includes group variables including group heterogeneity, group structure and communication patterns, and both formal and informal leadership variables in addition to more commonly studied automation and technical system factors.
Assessing Fitness-for-Duty: An Alternative to Problems Associated with Drug Testing in the Workplace
Authors: Baltzley Dennis R. , Kennedy Robert S. , Turnage Janet J.
Published: January 2012

A projected 20-33% of U.S. companies are involved in some type of drug screening. usually, the larger companies implement these programs with over 50% of the Fortune 500 companies reporting testing (Walsh, 1988). In federally regulated industry the percentage of drug screening varies as a function of public safety. For example, 91% of the utilities have a program, as do 81% of the transportation industry, 45% of manufacturing, 34.5% of the communications industry. Industry, both public and private, is becoming increasingly aware of the price paid by the organization and the individual when alcohol/drug misuse is present in the workplace. Some of these testing programs use a least intrusive approach and screen only after an accident, fight, or other “probable cause” event (Walsh, 1988). However, many organizations administer programs on a regular basis through random testing (NIDA, 1988). These organizations include the Department of Transportation, Coast Guard, Federal Aviation Administration, Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Navy, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Treasury, Customs, Secret Service, Central Intelligence Agency, U.S. Postal Service, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and many public utilities.
Team Performance in a Dynamic Resource Allocation Task: The Importance of Heuristics
Authors: McBride Dorothy J. , Brown Clifford E.
Published: January 2012

The utility of group decision heuristics was examined in the context of a dynamic resource allocation task which incorporates both certain and uncertain events. Visual coding schemes for presenting the events varied among teams, only half the teams received experimenter developed heuristics, and both moderate and fast information presentation rates were used. Performance scores were significantly higher for teams with heuristics. In addition, teams performed better under moderate time pressure and with practice, and teams without heuristics displayed inconsistencies in handling uncertain events whereas teams with heuristics behaved as predicted by utility theory. No performance differences were found for variations in visual coding schemes.
Retention with Massed versus Distributed Practice on a Human Performance Mini-Battery
Authors: Harbeson Mary M.
Published: January 2012

This study examined the effects of schedules of practice on human performance tests. Grammatical Reasoning, Code Substitution, Pattern Comparison, Aiming, and Spoke Tests were administered to 20 young U.S. Navy enlisted men under conditions of massed or distributed practice during acquisition, and under a common intermediate condition in retention. In general the effect of distribution of practice was not very strong. The easier tests were unaffected by deviations in practice schedules, but the more complex Grammatical Reasoning and fatiguing Spoke test were disrupted by massing.
Examining Motorcycle Conspicuity through Recall of Traffic Events: A Preliminary Survey
Authors: Damos Diane L.
Published: January 2012

Familiarity with motorcycles may be related to their conspicuity. A survey was constructed that approached the idea of conspicuity through the recall of various traffic scenarios. Respondents were classified as either motorcycle owners or non owners. Motorcycle owners were more familiar with the characteristics of motorcycles than nonowners and believed that they had seen more motor scooters in the last 7 days.