bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Examination of the Relative Legibility of Text on One Line Vacuum Florescent and Liquid Crystal Displays
Authors: Petrun Craig J. , Hernon William , MacDonald Marian
Published: January 2012

The purpose of the present study was to compare the legibility of text scrolled across a 40 character reflective twisted nematic field effect liquid crystal display and a 40 character vacuum fluorescent display. In addition to display type, the effect of the following factors on legibility were also examined: 1) the amount of light, 2) scrolling rate, and 3) type of scrolling (word vs. character). The range of angle adjustment or tilt selected by the operators was also recorded. The results indicated that there were no significant performance differences between the displays although reduced room lighting did have a significant negative impact on operators error rates for both types of displays. The angle settings selected by the operators also differed between the displays, with the LCD exhibiting a greater range of adjustment than the vacuum fluorescent display.
Safety Information Presentation: Factors Influencing the Potential for Changing Behavior
Authors: Horst D.P. , McCarthy G.E. , Robinson J.N. , McCarthy R.L. , Krumm-Scott S.
Published: January 2012

Studies of several on-product warnings and product safety messages provide evidence that on-product warnings have not been effective in preventing injuries. However, there are examples of information presentations that, in conjunction with other factors, do modify human behavior. Some of these examples are safety-related. The authors examine the factors that influence the potential for changing human behavior and their implications for safety information about consumer products.
Three-Dimensional Anthropometry-Shaping the Future
Authors: Robinette Kathleen M. , Armstrong Harry G.
Published: January 2012

New hardware technological developments have broadened the scope of anthropometric research by allowing easier, more precise and more comprehensive collection of quantitative information in three–dimensional (3D) form. This information will provide better design and evaluation information for protective equipment and clothing, better modelling information for workspace design, and more accurate information for the biomechanical evaluation of designs. In addition, the ability to identify the surface more precisely allows for the investigation of relationships, in numerical form, between surface and subsurface anatomy on living people. This could have clinical as well as research application. The goal of this session is to provide a forum for exchange of information on the new developments, research and application in the area of 3D anthropometry.

One paper presented here discusses devices available for 3D data collection, and their pros and cons for various applications. Also discussed is the new statistical and graphical technology needed for understanding and use of the huge collections of information which result with 3D data collection, as well as methods used in 3D modelling and examples of current 3D research efforts.
A Comparison between Space Suited and Unsuited Reach Envelopes
Authors: Stramler J. H.
Published: January 2012

A comparison was made for the reach capability of Shuttle space suit vs. unsuited. Graphics were generated and reach envelope volumes computed. The space suit reduces the reach envelope volume from about 64% to 97%, depending on the type of envelope measured.
Work-Related Back Injuries among Nursing Personnel in New York
Authors: Jensen Roger C.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes an analysis of workers' compensation data from New York state comparing disabling back injury experiences of: 1) Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, nursing aides, and employees in 21 other occupations selected to provide interesting comparisons, 2) groups defined by the three nursing-related occupational categories within four major health care industries, and 3) men and women in 18 occupational categories.
Video Games and Human Performance
Authors: Maningat Josephine , Bennett Corwin
Published: January 2012

Workers are frequently bored with monotonous work. Thirty-three subjects, principally welders, at a local manufacturing plant were either in an experimental or a control group. They either played video games during breaks or not. A number of perceptual-motor skill tests showed no improvement due to games. Neither did supervisory ratings of job performance. However, work performance improved significantly for the one month period. Other and longer test periods are desirable.
Human Factors in Remote Vehicle Control
Authors: Pepper Ross L.
Published: January 2012

Remotely operating a vehicle through a TV link presents unique challenges to the human factors design engineer. In addition to the geometrical requirements involved in providing acceptable image matching from the camera to the operator's display of the remote environment, consideration must be given to the impact of the dynamic motion cues provided to the operator. While a variety of visual motion cues are presented on the display, in fixed-base control stations the operator receives no corresponding somatosensory input. The result is that a decorrelation will exist between the operator's visual and vestibular information. According to Sensory Conflict Theory, this kind of sensory conflict frequently results in the operator developing signs and symptoms of motion sickness. Presumably, this nauseagenic response could have detrimental effects on driving performance. The present paper describes the approach taken at the Naval Ocean Systems Center (NOSC) to understand the basis for the large differences in driving performance which are revealed when comparisons are made between directly driving a vehicle and when driving the same vehicle by means of a TV link. The results to date are preliminary, and center on the methodological issues associated with identifying, selecting and testing various tasks which are fundamental to vehicle driving, whether that driving is done directly or through a TV link.
Building a Structural Model of Computer-Aided Decision Making
Authors: Gordon Sallie E.
Published: January 2012

It is becoming clear that computerized automation in the form of expert systems can be a useful aid for a wide variety of decision tasks including those involving diagnosis. To optimally combine human talent and expert systems, we need knowledge concerning what variables affect human performance, what variables affect machine performance, and what variables affect the operator's use and acceptance of the judgments offered by the expert system. This paper presents preliminary work on a causal model that has been developed to describe the decision system for an expert-aided diagnostic inference task. It is suggested that covariance structure analysis techniques can provide a useful tool for assessing the validity of this type of complex system model. To illustrate the approach, laboratory data relevant to the model are presented including analysis via structural equation modeling.
Expert System Advice: How Should it be Given?
Authors: Aretz Capt Anthony , Guardino Maj Al , Porterfield Lt Thomas , McClain Lt Jim
Published: January 2012

The objective of this research was to investigate different alternatives for pilot-computer interaction with a simulated expert system. Three methods of advice presentation were investigated – automatic, subject requested, and a combination of the two. Also, three experience levels of the subjects were examined – novice, intermediate, and expert. The dependent variables were total score for successful missions completed during the experimental session and average time to complete a mission. The analysis of the data revealed that the automatic condition was the best overall method for advice presentation (p<.1) and the experience level of the subjects was not a significant factor.
SAMMTB: A Computer Aided Design Tool for Ergonomists
Authors: Case Keith , Porter J. Mark , Bonney Maurice C.
Published: January 2012

Sammie (System for Aiding Man-Machine Interaction Evaluation) is a Computer Aided Design system which provides facilities for ergonomics/human factors evaluation at the earliest stage in the design process. Workplaces, for example the interior of a vehicle or a supermarket checkout, are modelled in three dimensions and presented on a computer graphics screen. A range of techniques are available for interactively modifying the design and for an ergonomie evaluation at each stage by the use of a three-dimensional model of the human operator. This paper describes the facilities available and illustrates the system's usefulness by reference to examples taken from recent design assignments.
Between Laboratory and Field Trial: Experience with a Communications Services Testbed
Authors: Herman Gary , Ordun Michael , Riley Christine
Published: January 2012

To attempt to bridge the gap between laboratory and field trial, we at the Network Services Research Division of Bellcore have designed and implemented the Modular Integrated Communications Environment (MICE). The primary motivation for MICE is to provide a means for research on the design and evaluation of advanced communications services and user interface technologies for the public communications network in a realistic environment, but without the expense and overhead of field trials. Thus, MICE is a real system, providing reliable communications services to a community of friendly users, but permitting convenient experimental control over services and interfaces. MICE has been constructed entirely of commercially-available subsystems, with controlling software executing in the UNIX™ environment. MICE has processed over 50, 000 communications attempts to date; capabilities range from basic telephony to voice paging, voice mail, and integrated voice/data mail.
Maximum Voluntary Hand Grip Torque for Circular Electrical Connectors
Authors: Adams S. Keith , Peterson Philip J.
Published: January 2012

A study employing twenty male and eleven female subjects was performed to determine maximum hand grip torque that can be exerted during tightening or loosening of circular electrical connectors. A static, sustained three-second exertion was used as the strength criterion. Torque was applied to simulated connector rings with diameters of 0.9, 1.5, and 2.0 inches and measured by means of a single-bridge torsional load cell. Other variables tested included the type of grip employed (full or fingertip), orientation of the connector (front, right side, or rear facing behind a barrier), the use of work gloves and chemical defense gloves, the height of the connectors (60% and 85% of the maximum reach height) and the direction of rotation. Hand grip torque strength was found to be directly related to connector diameters, with similar strength patterns exhibited for tightening and loosening. Higher torque was exerted when the connectors were on the subject's right side, and tightening and loosening effort corresponded to flexing and extending the wrist parallel to the forearms. The use of gloves resulted in higher torque in most situations. Connector height and direction of rotation had little effect on torque strength.
Professional Certification in Human Factors: Progress and Pitfalls
Authors: Hendrick Hal. W.
Published: January 2012

Under the auspices of the Subcommittee on Professional Standards (Policy and Planning Committee), effort was resumed in 1984 on a program for certification/licensing of Human Factors specialists within the Human Factors Society. The approach taken by the subcommittee was to review current arguments on the proposition of certification and licensing, determine implications for HPS involvement, define the major issues, and develop a preliminary plan for a recommended certification program for consideration and review by the HFS Executive Council. Such a review was held during the 1984 Annual Meeting with the decision to proceed with developing a plan for phased development of a certification program (Blanchard, 1985).

As a result of the 1984 decision, a subcommittee on certification was established under the newly formed committee on professional standards. Bob Blanchard was appointed as the initial chair. That committee has now been actively involved in developing a certification program for two years. In addition to developing a detailed program plan covering a five-year period, the committee has been active in developing a specialty data base on which to base a certification system. Funding for this data base development has been provided by the US Air Force, the Human Factors Society and, more recently, by the US Navy.

The purpose of this panel session is to provide the society with a status report on the HFS certification program plan, the specialty areas that have been identified for data base development, and the process that has been used to obtain the data base information. In addition, an equally important purpose is to bring to the society's attention the experience of related professional groups in developing professional certification programs. The specific topics to be addressed by the panelists in their formal presentations are as follows.
Evaluation of a Directory Service Search Algorithm
Authors: Spetner Nancy Benson
Published: January 2012

To determine the effectiveness of Touch-Tone or ASR (Automatic Speech Recognition) Directory Services, three studies were conducted. Specifically, Roe and Salahi's (1984) search algorithm, based on a Hidden Markov Probability Model, was evaluated. The initial study assessed the algorithm's ability to locate a targetted directory listing from correctly or incorrectly spelled TT inputs. The second study determined the generalizability of the original study, and the third study evaluated the accuracy of the algorithm for voiced-in listings that were interpreted by a speech recognizer. The names were sampled from a 1,450-name AT&T Information Systems data base. For TT inputs, results from the first two studies were similar; overall, the algorithm located 93.5% of the targetted names despite the fact that two thirds of the names were purposely spelled incorrectly. 100% of the correctly spelled names were located. For voice inputs, results showed that the algorithm located 89.9% of the targetted names. These results attest to the fact that this algorithm is highly effective at locating targetted directory listings regardless of spelling errors. The high degree of accuracy is especially impressive in light of the fact that each TT key is associated with 3 or 4 letters of the alphabet and that each voice input may be interpreted as any of the 26 letters of the alphabet.
The Role of Hand/Load Coupling in Strength Assessment
Authors: Drury Colin G.
Published: January 2012

The limiting human subsystems for strength testing involve motivation, perception, muscular strength and biomechanics. This contribution examines the role of perception and pain as limiting factors in strength assessment. It is concluded that the body/test equipment coupling can affect both perceived effort and reported pain, and hence that considerable care should be taken to ensure correct body/test equipment fit.
Metabolic Cost of Stair Climbing
Authors: Doolittle T. L.
Published: January 2012

Metabolic energy costs were determined on sixteen male firefighters ascending a stairmill in an unladen and a laden condition at a vertical velocity of 12.2 m/min. In the unladen condition they wore shorts and tennis shoes, while lagen they wore full protective clothing, including a SCBA, and carried a hose pack. Mean mass of the load was 39.2 kg. Caloric costs were compared with selected equations from the literature. All of the equations overpredicted for the unladen condition. One continued to overpredict, one underestimated, and a third was very close for the cost for the laden condition. An equation derived from data for eight of the subjects, yielded better predictions for the remaining eight, under both conditions, than any of the equations from the literature. Limitations and the need for further research are discussed.
Skills, Rules and Knowledge: A Discussion of Rasmussen's Classification
Authors: Harwood Kelly , Sanderson Penelope
Published: January 2012

In this paper a discussion is presented of the antecedents, the emergence, and the impact of Rasmussen's skill, rule, and knowledge based behavior classification. While level-based behavioral taxonomies have been used in the past, Rasmussen's use of the concept for describing human control of complex systems has had a widespread impact. It has aided interdisciplinary communication and has provided an organizing rubric for vast areas of research.
Issues in Teaching Design from a Human Factors Perspective
Authors: Smith Philip J.
Published: January 2012

There is a great deal of interest and concern over methods for teaching students how to design and to participate as members of design teams. This concern is evidenced in the proposal for certification of Human Factors Graduate Programs that the Society is currently reviewing.

The participants in this session will present views regarding the effectiveness of alternative methods of teaching design. These presentations, by Society members from both academia and industry, will serve to focus attention on issues that are of great interest during the debate over certification, and that are of general concern to educators in the field. This should help to facilitate discussion by the audience and panelists during the last portion of the session.
Safety Evaluation of Helmet and Other Mass Additions to the Head
Authors: Muzzy William H. , Bittner Alvah C. , Willems Gilbert C.
Published: January 2012

The biodynamic effects of helmet and other mass additions to the head have been of concern for more than two decades. The Naval Biodynamics Laboratory (NBDL) has performed a series of -X acceleration exposure experiments using Navy volunteers in which the dynamic response of the head was measured as a function of mass distribution variations. The kinematic response was measured for each subject with no mass addition, a helmet and weight-carrying frame, and a helmet with weights positioned on the frame symmetrically about the mid-sagittal plane. There was approximately a 30 percent addition to the head mass with these weights. Safety monitoring procedures for this investigation illustrate: (a) Computer-based methods which may apply during helmet design; and (b) experimental procedures which may be applied to assess helmet safety test and evaluation.
Reading Instruction and Remediation Using Voice Synthesis in Computer Interaction
Authors: Olson Richard , Foltz Gregory , Wise Barbara
Published: January 2012

Synthesized speech was used in our Computer-Based Reading and Speech-Feedback system for training disabled readers. In this system, children touch unfamiliar words in stories presented on the computer display and receive speech feedback to help develop their word decoding skills. Results from a study of disabled readers' responses to the system are reported. The disabled readers could identify words spoken by the synthesizer nearly as well as the same words presented in natural speech. After reading stories and targeting unknown words with a mouse or light pen, the disabled readers were later able to read a high percentage of the targeted words for which they had received speech feedback. Extended use of the system may substantially improve the prognosis for disabled readers. The advantages of synthesized speech over other types of computer speech are discussed for this application.
Simulator Sickness Research Program at Nasa-Ames Research Center
Authors: McCauley Michael E. , Cook Anthony M.
Published: January 2012

The simulator sickness syndrome is receiving increased attention in the simulation community. NASA-Ames Research Center has initiated a program to facilitate the exchange of information on this topic among the tri-services and other interested government organizations. The program objectives are to identify priority research issues, promote efficient research strategies, serve as a repository of information, and disseminate information to simulator users.
Empirical Studies of Interactive Computer Graphics: Perceptual and Cognitive Issues
Authors: Sandford James , Barfield Woodrow , Foley James
Published: January 2012

Two experiments were performed to test the effects of varying computer graphics realism cues (wireframe vs. solid figures, flat vs. smooth shading for solid figures, and one or two light sources for solid figures) on the performance of a standard cognitive task (mental rotation) and on the subjective perceived realism of the computer-generated images. In the mental rotation experiment, mean reaction times were slower for wireframe than for smooth and flat shaded images and significant effects for figure complexity and angle of rotation were shown. In the second experiment, subjective ratings of image realism indicated that wireframe images were viewed as less realistic than solid model images and that number of light sources was more important in conveying image realism to users than was the type of shading.
Evaluating User Interface Complexity
Authors: Karat John
Published: January 2012

A study was conducted to examine learning and performance differences between a command language and a direct manipulation system. Experimental results point out large differences in performance between the command language and direct manipulation systems which favor direct manipulation. Formal models of the knowledge required to use the systems were developed following the framework suggested by Kieras and Polson (1985). Failure of the formal models to accurately predict the advantages for the direct manipulation system are traced to insufficient emphasis on error behavior.
A Connectionist/Control Architecture for Working Memory and Workload: Why Working Memory is not 7 +/− 2
Authors: Detweiler Mark , Schneider Walter
Published: January 2012

A runnable simulation architecture for working memory is described that provides an alternative to existing models of working memory, e.g., of Atkinson & Shiffrin (1968) and Baddeley (1986). It is used to interpret a variety of phenomena, including multiple resources, workload, chunking, sequential output, skilled and episodic memories, and stages of skill acquisition. The architecture is based on a set of modules organized into regions which communicate with each other on an innerloop of processing. A new feature of this architecture is a proposed context-storage module that temporarily stores context information in fast changing connection weights. This enables the system to expand effective working memory beyond the traditional 7 +/− 2 items. The context storage system is able to reload modules after short-term information decays or is displaced; in addition, it provides a means of achieving stable, robust processing under conditions of high workload.
Computer Work Stations: Preferred Posture and Line of Sight
Authors: Kroemer K. H. E.
Published: January 2012

Ergonomic design of the computer work station can not rely on assuming an upright body position, but must accommodate various and varying postures.
A Proposed Model to Facilitate the Ergonomic Implementation of VDT-Based Data Entry Jobs in Industrially Developing Countries
Authors: Rosenberg Steve M.
Published: January 2012

Extensive research has been conducted in Western Developed Countries on office ergonomics. The results of this research are presently being assimilated and integrated in Western offices. Concurrently there has been a movement to shift data entry operations to Industrially Developing Countries (IDC). The purpose of this paper is three-fold: 1) To stimulate consciousness among Human Factor professionals that VDT data entry work is being introduced into the developing countries by Western, primarily American, Multinational Corporations (MNC). 2) To explore methodology for applying established ergonomic principals to data entry tasks in IDC. 3) To propose a system model that addresses the unique ergonomic factors of data entry work being performed in IDC.
Manprint Perspectives: R&D/Production and Government/Industry
Authors: Peters Joseph I.
Published: January 2012

This panel session is intended to be responsive to continued, high-level attention given by the U.S. Army to its MANPRINT (Manpower and Personnel Integration) initiative and to the continued, if not increasing, interest expressed by the human factors community in MANPRINT efforts. LTC William O. Blackwood from the US Army MANPRINT Policy Office will precede the panelists' presentations with a brief MANPRINT overview. MANPRINT interests will then be discussed by panelists representing four perspectives along two dimensions as represented in Figure 1.
Pictorial Format Displays for Two-Seat Fighter-Attack Aircraft
Authors: Martin Robin L. , Way Thomas C.
Published: January 2012

Use of pictorial displays was explored as one solution to the complexity of modern aircraft and missions. A simulator crew-in-the-loop study was conducted to evaluate the utility and crew acceptance of pictorial format displays for two-seat fighter-attack aircraft, to determine whether utility and crew acceptance were affected by application of color, and to recommend format changes based on the results. Pictorial formats were developed in both color and monochrome for the Head-Up Display and tactical, situation, and system status displays. Sixteen operational two-man aircrews learned the formats and flew them in mission simulation. Opinion, workload, and performance data were collected. The crews clearly supported the concept of pictorial formats, preferred the color version, and provided critiques of specific formats.
Illumination Levels in Offices with Visual Display Units
Authors: Yearout Robert , Konz Stephan
Published: January 2012

This paper investigates the optimal illumination levels for offices equipped with visual display units(VDUs). Twenty-four paid subjects keyed in typical word processing data for 6 min per condition. General illumination was provided by a mixture of indirect and direct lighting sources. This illumination was held at 350 lux at the workstation. The experimental variables for the 6 conditions were: (1) two illuminations of the room wall and (2) three illumination levels in the area directly ahead of the operator. When VDU workstations are illuminated at 350 lux to eliminate glare, operators prefer an intermediate illumination level (800 lux) in the office space to their front over 415 lux or 1170 lux. Operators also preferred increased brightness contrast on the wall. Design should consider not only the workstation itself but also the surrounding.
Successful Implementation of an Injury Prevention Program
Authors: Macek Albert J.
Published: January 2012

Impressive reductions in injury rate were achieved in a cooperative program that included industrial human factors. The other players in the program include the medical department nurses, the safety engineers, production engineers, supervisors and production workers. The explanation offered for the program's apparent success is that responsibility and accountability for industrial human factors improvement is distributed among the various departments involved.
Signal Detection Performance as a Function of Fourier Description of Symbols
Authors: Marshak William P. , Osarczuk John C.
Published: January 2012

Performance on a signal detection task was explainable by differences between the two dimensional Fourier transforms of the background and target stimuli. A signal detection experiment by Marshak and Osarczuk (1984) used target and background stimuli designed to systematically differ in spatial frequency and orientation. They found that the hypothesized Fourier differences increased sensitivity and decreased decision time. The present paper reports the Fourier analysis of those stimuli which verify and quantify the stimulus manipulation. Multiple regressions were computed using differences in frequency and orientation to explain performance. The results were that 83 percent of d-prime and 74 percent of the decision time variance could be explained by the Fourier differences. These findings indicate that Fourier descriptions of symbols may be used to predict their effectiveness in work station environments.
The Globe Thermometer Response under Varying Thermal Components
Authors: Lee C.H. , Ramsey J.D.
Published: January 2012

This study investigates the effect of air velocity and other thermal components on the globe thermometer response. An experiment was conducted in an environmental chamber in order to measure globe temperatures under varying air velocity, relative humidity and air temperature. This study was performed under three different radiant heat levels. It was found that air velocity has a significant effect on the globe thermometer response. This effect is quantified in this study. Neither air temperature nor relative humidity was found to have a significant effect on globe thermometer response.
Instrument Scanning and Subjective Workload with the Peripheral Vision Horizon Display
Authors: Hameluck Donald , Stager Paul
Published: January 2012

The Peripheral Vision Horizon Display (PVHD) is an expanded artificial horizon line that is intended to provide the pilot with orientation information through peripheral vision. The potential advantage is a reduction in the requirement to constantly refer to the attitude indicator (AI) in order to maintain awareness of orientation during instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). Four helicopter pilots flew two types of instrument approaches to determine whether the degree to which pilots rely on the AI would be altered when the PVHD was in operation. Only two pilots showed a reduction in the visual workload associated with the need to scan the AI. The general trend in the data indicated an increase in subjective workload with the PVHD. It was argued that motion of the PVHD distracted the pilots from their routine instrument scan, although this result might not generalize to pilots more experienced with the display. It was concluded that the PVHD might be of significant benefit in situations where the pilot must look outside the cockpit and stable orientation cues are not visible.
On Developing Theory-Based Functions to Moderate Human Performance Models in the Context of Systems Analysis
Authors: Boettcher Kevin , North Robert , Riley Victor
Published: January 2012

Preliminary work is described toward the development of moderator functions for systems analysis that reflect human behavioral limitations and tendencies. In particular, a model of human-machine interaction dynamics in complex systems is introduced to give a moderating influence on overall operator/decision aid performance. A key input to this model is the operator's current workload. To further ground the moderator function in human behavioral considerations, a multiple resource theory-based workload assessment technique is used to provide this input.
The Effects of Visual Cues to Realism and Perceived Impact Point during Final Approach
Authors: Barfield Woodrow , Rosenberg Craig , Kraft Conrad
Published: January 2012

This research investigated the effect of providing three different simulations of ground terrain on the ability of subjects to accurately determine the aimpoint during a final approach. Several simulations were created to model a straight-in final approach (3 degree glideslope) to a standard FAA runway from several distances. The three levels of terrain realism ranged from a homogeneous surface to farmlands with hills. The subject's task was to estimate the aimpoint which represented an extrapolation of the flightpath to its point-of-contact with the ground as well as the altitude at nine different distances from threshold. The results indicated that increased levels of realism lead to better performance in judging altitude and predicting aimpoint during a simulated final approach.
A Comparative Study of Text-Editing Programs among a Sample of Older Adults
Authors: Czaja Sara J. , Joyce J. Bonnie
Published: January 2012

Research indicates that older adults have difficulty acquiring text-editing skills. The data suggest that the cognitive demands associated with text-editing programs create problems for older learners given the age-related changes in cognitive abilities. This study compared the learning efficiency of older adults for three text-editing programs which varied in format and command structure. A total of 45, computer naive, women ranging in age from 40 to 70 years participated. The results indicated significant differences in learning efficiency as a function of text-editing program. Participants using a full screen editor with pull down menus demonstrated significantly better performance than did those using other programs. Data was also collected regarding types of difficulties encountered by subjects during learning. This type of information can be used as input into the design of future software and training programs.
Iterative Tutorial Design in the Product Development Cycle
Authors: Perkins Ronald , Blatt Louis A. , Workman Daniel , Ehrlich Susan F.
Published: January 2012

Early development of a tutorial fostered a joint effort between human factors professionals, software developers and training consultants that resulted in early resolution of many problems during the development of Wang Freestyle™, a new multimedia communication system. It was decided that new users of Freestyle should be able to use the basic annotation features without referring to any hardcopy documentation. To ensure this, iterative tests of evolving prototypes of (1) the software and (2) an on-line tutorial that was designed to teach any features of the system that were not immediately intuitive were carried out. Changes were made in the software and the tutorial, resulting in improvements to both. The methods used and some of the lessons learned from this initial experience with iterative tutorial development are discussed.
Usability Analysis of Messages from a Security System
Authors: Mosteller William S. , Ballas James
Published: January 2012

Most software systems issue messages to reflect their progress in processing users' requests and to report error conditions. By instrumenting systems to collect these messages for later processing, a rich source of information about system and user behavior can be tapped. The work described herein is a study of system and user behavior related to messages, in an actual use setting. Our objective is assessing and improving the interaction with VMSECURE, a user directory management and security package for IBM's VM operating system. (VM is IBM's interactive system for mainframe computers. VMSECURE manages user resources and controls data access.)

Pareto's principle applies to VMSECURE messages and error messages. A few different messages make up most of the traffic. Password prompting provides efficient, effective protection against unauthorized use of VMSECURE. Users of VMSECURE, when they receive an error messages, often re-enter the same, unsuccessful command again. Users of VMSECURE do not improve their error rates with experience, possibly due to the low level of daily use they make of the product.
Contracting for User Interface Design in Military Systems
Authors: Mosier Jane N. , Jarvis Mildred D. , Monk Donald L. , O'Brien Larry H. , Simon Robert
Published: January 2012

Many of the systems the Government acquires contain a large amount of software. Some are limited almost exclusively to off-the-shelf computer hardware, and software that is developed by a contractor. But human factors in military systems is regulated by documented standards and procedures that were developed before software gained an important role in military systems, and so do not deal with issues specific to user interface design. The purpose of this panel is to discuss user interface design issues and to propose changes to the acquisition process to improve user interface design for military systems.
Information Processing Components and Knowledge Representations: An Individual Differences Approach to Modeling Pilot Judgment
Authors: Barnett Barbara J.
Published: January 2012

The study described here represents another step in an ongoing program of research (cf. Wickens, Stokes, Barnett, & Davis, 1987; Wickens, Stokes, Barnett, & Hyman, 1988). Specifically, the present study contrasts high-time and low-time pilot judgment performance, using information processing components and knowledge representations in long term memory (LTM) as individual difference measures to predict performance. The objective was to determine which of these two classes of measures predicted pilot judgment performance for groups of varying levels of experience. Thirty pilots (15 high-time and 15 low-time) completed a cognitive abilities assessment battery. This battery was comprised of two components: domain-independent information processing measures, and measures of domain-specific knowledge representations. These pilots then flew a cross-country flight on MIDIS, a microcomputer-based decision flight simulator. Each pilot's performance was assessed on a number of in-flight decisions. No significant differences in absolute performance level were observed between high-time and low-time pilots, however the pattern of ability measures that predicted low-time pilot performance was different from those that predicted high-time performance. Specifically, high-time pilot performance was better-predicted by measures of domain-specific knowledge representations. Differences in predictor patterns suggest qualitative differences in decision-making strategies used by the two cohorts.
Stereoscopic Depth Sensitivity Differences between the Crossed and Uncrossed Directions
Authors: Patterson R. , Short G. L. , Moe L.
Published: January 2012

This study investigated the temporal sensitivity of crossed and uncrossed stereoscopic mechanisms of 48 observers using stimuli created from dynamic random-dot stereograms. The results showed thresholds were lower and depth was more veridical in the crossed than in the uncrossed direction.
When is a Naval Outer Air Battle like a Nuclear Power Plant?
Authors: Stubler William F.
Published: January 2012

In the naval outer air battle the Battle Manager is responsible for managing assets and resources within an air sector to achieve mission objectives. Current and proposed advances in the capabilities of aircraft platforms, sensors, and communication links are likely to increase the scope and complexity of the outer air Battle Manager's role. Advanced decision aids must be developed to support this role. This paper explores the transfer of decision aid development techniques between dissimilar domains. It demonstrates how techniques developed over the past decade for the senior reactor operator (or shift supervisor) of a nuclear power plant may be applied to the development of decision aids for the outer air battle management.
Classification of Flight Segment Using Pilot and WSO Physiological Data
Authors: Wilson Glenn F. , Fisher Frank
Published: January 2012

To develop on-line metrics of operator workload, physiological measures were recorded from 10 F4 flight crews during air-to-ground training missions. Discriminant analysis techniques were used to classify eight flight segments for nineteen crew members using heart rate and eye blink data as variables. For the pilots 93% of the flight segments were correctly classified and 89% were correctly classified for WSOs. The advantage of collecting multiple physiological signals was demonstrated. Further, combined cardiac and eye blink data produced better classifications than when each was used alone. Application of this technique to the flight environment for use to evaluate mission/design effects and to provide for on-line monitoring of operator state is discussed.
Alphabetic Input on a Telephone Keypad
Authors: Detweiler Mark C. , Schumacher Robert M. , Gattuso Nicholas L.
Published: January 2012

With the growing use of the telephone as an input device, human factors designers need more human performance data on how quickly and accurately users can learn and execute alternative data-entry input strategies, as well as indications of what strategies users prefer. This study assesses five different strategies for entering alphabetic codes from a telephone keypad.
Case-Based Reasoning: Taming the Similarity Heuristic
Authors: Whitaker Leslie A. , Stottler Richard H. , King James A.
Published: January 2012

Case-Based Reasoning (CBR) is a methodology for employing imprecise data and uncertain information in the development of solutions to fuzzy real world problems. It is seen as an alternative to rule-based systems, which may fail under these conditions. Under the sponsorship of DARPA, we have developed a generic CBR shell.

The system was evaluated in the domain of NACA airfoils. A subject matter expert was asked to select airfoils (cases) which were similar to target airfoils. He then defined attributes and weights by which he had judged this similarity. These parameters were then used by PROSPER in a retrieval of airfoils similar to the same targets. From a case base of 98 airfoils, PROSPER retrieved 9 out of 17 selected by the expert. After modifying the similarity algorithms, PROSPER retrieved 11 out of 17.
Using the Context of Interactions to Adapt to Users
Authors: Schweighardt Michael F.
Published: January 2012

The context of human-computer interaction consists of those objects referred to by the users in the computer system and the users themselves. A contextual knowledge base (embedded within a computer system) can be used to facilitate and control the adaptation of the computer system based on information about users stored within this context. A general Context Management System design has been proposed and a prototype of this design implemented to meet the needs of the adaptation of systems to individuals and groups of users.
Effects of Fetal Exposition to Aircraft Noise on the Birthweight of Children
Authors: Coblentz A. , Martel A. , Ignazi G.
Published: January 2012

In order to determine whether chronic exposure to loud noise has demonstrable biological effects on humans, a study was conducted on the effect of mother's exposure to airport noise while pregnant upon birthweight and gestation lenght. In a first step birthweights of children were collected in 12 towns in the Paris area: a sample of 636 subjects from the Orly area (4 towns), another of 1432 subjects from the Roissy area (4 towns) and a reference sample of 1224 subjects from an area not submitted to the aircraft noise (4 towns).

The analysis of weights in the three areas shows a significantly higher birthweight for the boys born in the non submitted aircraft noise area, meanweight: 3433.92 g, by comparison with Orly area, 3356.24 g, and Roissy area, 3355.95 g. The mean birthweights of girls of Orly, Roissy and reference samples were respectively: 3231.43 g, 3202.83 g and 3268.24 g. There is a significant difference only between the Roissy and reference samples.

The second step of this study, actually in progress, concerns the analysis of the possible influence of other factors: mother's age, primiparity, gestational age, and so on. These factors could be combined or not.
Differences in Time-Sharing Ability between Successful and Unsuccessful Trainees in the Landing Craft Air Cushion Vehicle Operator Training Program
Authors: Nontasak T. , Dolgin D.L.
Published: January 2012

Improved entry requirements for selection to the U.S. Navy landing craft air cushion (LCAC) vehicle operator training program are needed. Several automated cognitive, personality, and psychomotor selection tests are under evaluation. This study analyzed trainee performance involving a combination of compensatory tracking (CT) and digit cancellation (DC) tasks. Successful trainees performed significantly better than unsuccessful trainees in most of the task measures. Performance differences approached the 0.05 significance level in the single-task DC but not in the single-task CT. In dual performance, where CT and DC were performed simultaneously, successful trainees' time-sharing abilities were significantly better (p < .05). Additionally, DC and CT/DC time-sharing measures correlated with training grade. These findings suggest that a test of time-sharing ability has the potential to predict LCAC training program outcome. Test results and implications for training are discussed.
Factors Involved in Risk Perception
Authors: Leonard S. David , Hill G. William , Otani Hajime
Published: January 2012

The ability to avoid the hazards that abound in the environment is affected by our capabilities for recognizing the hazards. The estimates of risk associated with different hazards will presumably affect the effort used to avoid them. The experiment was designed to examine perception of risk to oneself versus others, and explore the extent to which commonalities among different hazards may produce similar risk estimates. Data from 136 females and 98 males suggested that only younger males perceived themselves as less at risk than other sorts of individuals, but not less than other young males. Factor analysis techniques suggested a grouping based on perceived level of risk. The results were interpreted to indicate both situational and individual components are involved in risk estimates, and that this has implications for development of training techniques and warnings.
TAWL Operator Simulation System (TOSS) Version 4.0
Authors: Fulford Laura A. , Hamilton David B. , Bierbaum Carl R.
Published: January 2012

This demonstration presents Version 4.0 of the Task Analysis/Workload (TAWL) Operator Simulation System (TOSS). TOSS is designed to support the development of models that predict operator workload using the TAWL methodology (see Hamilton & Bierbaum, 1990). During a TAWL analysis, the typical operation of a piece of equipment (the system) is identified and then decomposed into phases, segments, functions, and tasks. TOSS provides data base management of the information produced during the analysis. Additionally, the software uses the information provided to simulate the operation of the system and compute predictions of each operator's workload. The software can also be used for other simulation research (e.g., mission time line generation). The user describes the operation of a system using a bottom-up approach that combines tasks into functions and functions into segments. TOSS simplifies the user's description of the simulation by allowing tasks and functions to be identified as fixed or random in sequence; the program requires only the information necessary to simulate a specific category. TOSS predicts up to six task-related workload components by summing the values for each component across concurrent tasks and can generate a seventh component from any arithmetic combination of the first six. TOSS analyzes the peaks of the seven components using a thresholding function and produces statistics describing the percentage of time that any of the variables are higher than the threshold. Finally, TOSS produces an annotated half-second time line output for up to four operators. For every half-second of the simulation, the time line shows the tasks and functions that each operator is performing and the total workload for each of the components.
DAS: A Graphical Computer System for the Collection of Musculoskeletal Discomfort Data
Authors: Saldaña Norka
Published: January 2012

Identification of musculoskeletal problems in industry at an early stage presumably allows for an early control, safer environment and healthier workers. All of which can have a significant impact on the overall cost to employers. Unfortunately, there are numerous difficulties in collecting all relevant information with existing data collection methods. DAS (Discomfort Assessment System) provides and alternative method for the collection of subjective discomfort data. The system makes extensive use of graphics and was developed to collect musculoskeletal discomfort information from non-computer users. The information collected by DAS may be useful for: (1) detecting and controlling musculoskeletal problems at an early stage, (2) identifying high risk jobs, (3) evaluating the impact of ergonomic interventions in the workforce, (4) conducting fatigue surveys.