bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Factors Issues Surrounding an Automotive Vision Enhancement System
Authors: Kiefer Raymond J.
Published: January 2012

Although night vision systems have been used extensively for a wide variety of military applications, only recently have such systems been considered for automotive applications. This paper provides a technological primer for an automotive application of a vision enhancement system (or VES), and reviews the human factors literature, general human factors issues, and accident data relevant to such a system. The automotive VES consists of two primary components, an infrared sensor and a display. VES information can be displayed to the driver in a contact analog fashion on a head-up display, or in a non-contact analog fashion on either a head-down or head-up display. The primary potential benefit of a VES is to improve the driver's ability to see critical driving events (e.g., pedestrians, bicyclists, roadway direction) under nighttime driving conditions.
A Conjoint Analysis of Five Factors Influencing Heavy Vehicle Drivers Perceptions of Workload
Authors: Nygren Thomas E.
Published: January 2012

Conjoint analysis, a multi-factor subjective scaling technique, was used in a study of heavy vehicle drivers to obtain a measure of their perceived workload demands under different driving conditions. These included combinations of low and high levels of traffic density, lighting, roadway type, visibility, and traction. A tradeoff comparison analysis was used to collect the conjoint scaling data from a subset of the complete 2−2−2−2−2 design. Results indicated that an additive factor representation fit the data very well, but that the five factors had very different importance weights. The drivers’ orderings of perceived demand appeared to be inversely related to their control over the conditions. The two most important factors (traction and visibility) are effectively environmental factors that cannot be easily controlled by the driver. The other three factors (traffic density, highway type, and lighting) can, at least to some extent, come under the control of the driver. Implications of these results and the use of conjoint scaling methodology are discussed.
Simulator Evaluation of Heavy-Vehicle Driver Workload
Authors: Kantowitz Barry H.
Published: January 2012

Six primary-task and four secondary-task workload measures were investigated in a fixed-base truck simulator. Twelve commercial drivers each drove twelve simulator modules, each 55,000 feet in length. Independent variables were road geometry, traffic density, and secondary task. All primary task measures except steering rate were not influenced by the addition of a secondary task. Two secondary tasks, reaction time to reading the vehicle tachometer and immediate recall of a 7-digit auditory number, provided effective measures of driver workload.
Developing Baseline Data on Heavy Vehicle Driver Visual Workload
Authors: Kiger Steven M. , Rockwell Thomas H. , Tijerina Louis
Published: January 2012

This study focused on the development of baseline measures of driver visual allocation under normal operating conditions. Thirty licensed truck drivers drove an instrumented heavy truck over a 459 km fixed route in which road type and ambient lighting condition were varied. An on-board video recording system was used to record the subject's visual glances throughout the run. During the run subjects performed three driving tasks: open road driving, car following and in-cab tasks requested by the experimenter. Over all conditions, the mean time off the road was 1.01 s and the mean road scene glance duration was 2.18 s. The results indicated that road type and driving task were significant factors affecting driver visual workload indicators. Ambient light level was not a significant factor affecting the visual allocation of truck drivers.
Temporal Characteristics of Work Activity
Authors: Bedny Gregory , Meister David
Published: January 2012

This paper is another effort to explain the differences between Russian and Western ergonomics. The focus here is the temporal aspect of the Russian theory of work activity. Russians use time as a means of analyzing the task and of evaluating operator performance.
User-Driven Product Data Manager System Design
Authors: Forsythe Chris , Ashby M. Rodema
Published: January 2012

With the infusion of information technologies into product development and production processes, effective management of product data is becoming essential to modern production enterprises. When an enterprise-wide Product Data Manager (PDM) is implemented, PDM designers must satisfy the requirements of individual users with different job functions and requirements, as well as the requirements of the enterprise as a whole. Concern must also be shown for the interrelationships between information, methods for retrieving archival information and integration of the PDM into the product development process. This paper describes a user-driven approach applied to PDM design for an agile manufacturing pilot project at Sandia National Laboratories that has been successful in achieving a much faster design-to-production process for a precision electro mechanical surety device.
Issues of Dependence and Reliance on Technological Advancement: Examples from American Football and Air Traffic Control
Authors: Caldwell Barrett S. , Everhart Nick C. , Paradkar Piyusha , Suh Hyun-Suk
Published: January 2012

This paper addresses aspects of dependence and reliance on new technologies, using American football and air traffic control as examples. Football has developed an audio communication system between the coach and quarterback in a hostile environment (auditory signal in a noisy stadium). Should technological breakdown occur, performance could suffer if the users are not proficient with backup systems (hand signals transmitted from the sideline). Dependence on technology takes a more serious form in air traffic control, as thousands of lives depend on technology performing as expected. Backup systems exist, but suffer from the same weaknesses as the existing system and cannot handle the volume of system activity. The possibility of technological failure needs to be considered before implementing and relying on new systems, and can often be mediated by careful and innovative thinking before new technology is adopted.
Subjective Workload Measurement: An Aid in Evaluating Flightline Maintenance Systems
Authors: Quill Laurie L. , Kancler David
Published: January 2012

Armstrong Laboratory, Logistics Research Division performed an evaluation to determine whether flightline maintenance was improved by using a computerized, integrated maintenance information system (IMIS) for different types of users. The laboratory's evaluation overcame several logistical problems common to conducting research outside a laboratory setting. Such problems include obtaining representative subjects, controlling for extraneous variables, and gathering adequate sample data. The present study includes 24 maintenance technicians (12 avionics specialists and 12 crew chief non-specialists). Each subject performed 12 maintenance tasks (6 using electronic and 6 using paper presentation). Subjective workload ratings and objective performance times were measured. Subjective workload (using National Aeronautics and Space Administration-Task Load Index (NASA-TLX)) and objective performance results revealed similar interactions. Using paper-based presentations, crew chiefs gave significantly higher subjective workload ratings than avionics specialists and significantly longer total performance time (e.g., time-to-complete). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups when using electronic-based presentations.
Training for Aviation Decision Making: The Naturalistic Decision Making Perspective
Authors: Orasanu Judith
Published: January 2012

This paper describes the implications of a naturalistic decision making (NDM) perspective for training air crews to make flight-related decisions. The implications are based on two types of analyses: (1) identification of distinctive features that serve as a basis for classifying a diverse set of decision events actually encountered by flight crews, and (2) performance strategies that distinguish more from less effective crews flying full-mission simulators, as well as performance analyses from NTSB accident investigations. Six training recommendations are offered.
Planning Effects on Communication Strategies: A Shared Mental Model Perspective
Authors: Stout Renée J.
Published: January 2012

Teams play an unquestionably vital role in modern society, yet much is still unknown about how teams coordinate their activities to attain adaptive and effective performance. The current effort attempted to gain insight into how team members are able to anticipate and predict each other's needs, enabling coordinated task accomplishment. It did so by integrating the literature across three broad areas related to teamwork and testing two specific hypotheses of how teams function. Results indicated that planning is a critical skill necessary for teams to understand each other's informational requirements and to communicate in an efficient manner. Implications for training this crucial skill are discussed.
What Does An Operator Need to Learn?
Authors: Goonetilleke Ravindra S. , Drury Colin G. , Sharit Joseph
Published: January 2012

Using a simulated geosynchronous satellite relocation task, three types of training schemes, namely, in-the-loop, out-of-the-loop, and a composite of these two methods were evaluated. Verbal protocols in addition to performance and strategy measures were used to understand learning in this complex task. The results point toward an amplitude hypothesis of learning where two distinct phases are evident. In the first, large amplitude fluctuations exist due to the lack of a good mental model of the system dynamics. In the second, the amplitude fluctuations are low, and the performance improvements are dramatic suggesting the end of the mental model development phase and a gradual improvement in the system optimization parameters leading to the traditional power law learning curve.

Based on the results, it may be concluded that to learn a system or process well, the operator needs to:

1. Develop a good mental model of the system dynamics to minimize the large fluctuations in performance, and 2. Understand the optimization criteria to improve performance with low amplitude variations.
Training Older Workers in Industry
Authors: Ellis R. Darin , Goldberg Joseph H.
Published: January 2012

The work force of the near future will contain both a larger number and percentage of workers over the age of 55. Many of these older workers will re-enter the full-time work force in new areas or will transition into pools of contingent workers. Recent changes in labor law will also help keep older workers in the work place longer. The combination of these factors creates a situation where understanding the training and retraining needs of older workers is critical for continued productivity improvements. This paper summarizes the general state of current knowledge on training older workers, focusing on visual inspection and computer system usage. Generalizable aspects of training programs which have been successful are then considered, followed by identification of the areas in which research is most lacking.
Symposium on Distributed Simulation for Military Training of Teams/Groups: The Challenge of Distributed Training
Authors: Moses Franklin L.
Published: January 2012

How to effectively train teams or groups to work together in complex environments faced by the military is difficult, expensive, and often dangerous. This presentation discusses the challenge of using a newer technology – Distributed Interactive Simulation – to accomplish training previously addressed only with real equipment in field exercises. It discusses the challenge of effectively training people at geographically disbursed locations and the importance of such training. It provides the context for understanding the engineering of such a distributed network for training and for the initial research on using it and measuring the outcome. The presentation features a video about tools for such training.
Symposium on Distributed Simulation for Military Training of Teams/Groups: MDT2 System Assessment and Effectiveness
Authors: Mirabella Angelo
Published: January 2012

This presentation describes the rationale and method for assessing “subjective” reactions of training network users – players and observer/controllers. Subjective assessment about team/group training is as important as the objective measures described in the prior presentation. It is critical that players and exercise controllers view the experience as useful and effective. It is equally critical to pay attention to their ideas for product improvement. MDT2 participants reacted very favorably to the training. They offered many constructive ideas for improving training management, exercise design, and tactical realism. Key findings are summarized in the paper. In addition, the potential applications of this technology to non-Defense needs are addressed: fire fighting and emergency management.
Investigating Tradeoffs between Practice and Observation in Automated Instruction
Authors: Connolly-Gomez Catherine , Goettl Barry P.
Published: January 2012

This study examined the performance to observation ratio in training a complex computer-based flight simulator task. Subjects were divided into five different groups. One group performed 100% of the time during training, the second group performed 75% of the time and observed 25% of the time, the third group performed 50% of the time and observed 50% of the time, the fourth group performed 25% of the time and observed 75%, and the fifth group observed 100% of the time. Based on previous observational learning literature, we predicted a linear relationship between performance and percent of time performing. Results however, suggest a non-linear relationship between performance and percent of time performing. Performance was slightly better when a combination of performance and observation was used rather than performance alone. These results indicate that observational learning plays an important, yet often neglected role in learning complex computer-based tasks and suggests that small group oriented computer-based training systems may be more instructionally and cost effective than individually oriented computer-based training systems.
Crew Coordination Behaviors as Predictors of Problem Detection and Decision Making Times
Authors: Jentsch Florian G. , Salas Eduardo , Sellin-Wolters Sandra , Bowers Clint A.
Published: January 2012

Aeronautical decision making (ADM) is a critical skill that encompasses the ability to quickly identify, diagnose, and rectify problems during flight. ADM training has gained considerable importance because the lack of decision making skills and their inappropriate application have been cited as factors in several recent aircraft accidents. The current study investigated the relationship between crew coordination behaviors and the time required to identify a typical flight problem. Thirty-four military aircrews were observed during a flight simulation which involved a problem situation. The crews’ coordination behaviors during the five minutes immediately preceding the problem were entered into a discriminant function analysis of the times required to identify and rectify the problem. The results indicated that crew coordination behaviors significantly predicted the time required to identify a problem. At the same time, these behaviors could not be used to discriminate effectively with respect to the time required for problem solving. The results are evaluated with respect to their usefulness for prescriptive ADM training approaches.
Tracking Hesitations as a Function of Task/Control Integration
Authors: Andre Anthony D. , Cashion Patricia A.
Published: January 2012

This study examines the issue of compatibility between task requirements (integrated vs. independent) and control configurations (integrated vs. separated) in the context of a dual-task environment. In the two experiments reported here, subjects were required to time-share a continuous tracking task with a discrete response task. The results showed a greater number of tracking hesitations when these tasks were mapped to separate controls than when they were mapped to the same control, regardless of the level of task integration employed here. We conclude that integrated controls produce less hesitations for time-shared integrated tasks and displays, but can not make conclusions concerning the optimal control configuration for time-shared independent tasks. The results also highlight the multi-dimensional nature of the concept of task integration and suggest that display and temporal dimensions of the concept might outweigh the response dimension.
Foreground/Background Manipulations Affect Presence
Authors: Prothero Jerrold D. , Hoffman Hunter G. , Parker Donald E. , Furness Thomas A. , Wells Maxwell J.
Published: January 2012

A possible relation between vection and presence is discussed. Two experiments examined the hypothesis that “presence” is enhanced by manipulations which facilitate interpreting visual scenes as “background.” A total of 39 participants in two experiments engaged in a pursuit game while in a virtual visual environment generated by an HMD and rated their experience of “presence” on 5 questions. Experiment 1 compared two viewing conditions: visual scene masking at the eye and a paper mask mounted on the screen with the same 60° FOV, and showed that presence was enhanced by eye masking relative to screen masking. Experiment 2 replicated these findings with a double-blind experimental design.
Analog Track Angle Error Displays Improve Simulated GPS Approach Performance
Authors: Oman Charles M. , Huntley M. Stephen , Rasmussen Scott A. M.
Published: January 2012

Pilots flying non-precision instrument approaches traditionally rely on a course deviation indicator (CDI) analog display of cross track error (XTE) information. The new generation of GPS based area navigation (RNAV) receivers can also compute accurate track angle error (TAE). Does display of supplementary TAE information improve intercept and tracking performance? Six pilots each flew 20 approaches in a light twin simulator to evaluate 3 different TAE/XTE display formats, in comparison to a conventional receiver CDI display and a more centrally located Horizontal Situation Indicator (HSI). Statistically significant performance improvements were seen in several phases of the approach when using the supplementary TAE information. Analog was preferred over numeric format. However, the advantage was offset by the need to widen the pilot's instrument scan to include the receiver display. Pilots found TAE helpful in establishing intercepts and the appropriate wind correction angle. Findings support the recent FAA TSO-C129 requirement that XTE be presented in the pilot's primary field of view, and the recommendation that avionics manufacturers include supplementary analog TAE display capability.
The Effect of Active Noise Reduction Technology on Noise Induced Pilot Fatigue and Associated Cognitive Performance Decrements
Authors: Jordan John , Harris Wayne C. , Goernert Phillip N. , Roberts John
Published: January 2012

Fatigue in the general aviation cockpit is caused by a variety of factors including cockpit noise. Active Noise Reduction (ANR) headsets have been proposed as a method to decrease cockpit noise and thereby decrease fatigue and the cognitive performance decrements associated with fatigue. The present study contrasted the subjective fatigue and cognitive performance of Certified Flight Instructors (CFI) during a day of in-air flight instruction with ANR headsets versus conventional headsets. CFIs exhibited increased subjective fatigue and a pattern of more rapid but less accurate cognitive performance at the end of an instructional day. However, subjective fatigue and cognitive performance changes did not differ as a function of type of headset worn. The results suggest that subjective fatigue increases and cognitive performance changes occur during a day of flying but they provide no evidence that the use of ANR headsets modify these changes.
Information Extraction during Instrument Flight: An Evaluation of the Validity of the Eye-Mind Hypothesis
Authors: Fox Julianne , Merwin David , Marsh Roger , McConkie George , Kramer Arthur
Published: January 2012

A study was performed to determine the extent to which flight-relevant information on instruments peripheral to fixation is extracted and used during fixed-wing instrument flight. Twenty student and twenty instructor pilots flew a series of missions in a fixed-wing flight simulator which was interfaced with an eye-tracker. In one mission flight-relevant information was removed from instruments peripheral to fixation while in the other mission peripheral information was intact. Pilots' performance was degraded and eye scan strategies were modified when peripheral information was removed. Furthermore, in several situations instructor pilots' performance was more adversely influenced by the removal of peripheral information than was student pilots' performance. The data are discussed in terms of attentional strategies during flight.
Automation in General Aviation: Responses of Pilots to Autopilot and Pitch Trim Malfunctions
Authors: Beringer Dennis B.
Published: January 2012

Interactions between the pilot and onboard-automated systems, designed to reduce pilot workload and to decrease variability of aircraft performance, have been implicated in a number of accidents and incidents. An examination of autopilot use by 29 general-aviation pilots having complex aircraft experience was performed in the Civil Aeromedical Institute's Advanced General Aviation Research Simulator, configured as a Piper Malibu, for four simulated autopilot/pitch-trim failures. Response times were longer for subtle (sensor) failures than for overt (commanded roll) ones, and two distinct response strategies, immediate disconnect and manual override, were revealed. It was also found that there was an appreciable delay between first response to runaway pitch trim and final resolution. Implications for certification are discussed.
Initial Experiences with the Expanded National Route Program
Authors: Denning Rebecca , Smith Philip J. , McCoy Elaine , Orasanu Judith , Billings Charles , Van Horn Amy , Rodvold Michelle
Published: January 2012

One of the goals of the free flight concept is to give the airlines (and other operators) more flexibility in selecting the routes to be flown. This applies to both preflight planning and to flight amendments made while enroute. Exploration of the former, flexibility in preflight planning, has already begun with the implementation of the expended National Route Program (NRP). This paper documents the experiences associated with the introduction of the expanded NRP, and points to areas that must be addressed to help make the program successful from a traffic management perspective.
Retention of Multiple-Task Performance: Age-Related Differences
Authors: Sit Richard A. , Fisk Arthur D.
Published: January 2012

This study examined the relationship between retention of both multiple-task performance and the micro-components of a complex task. Young and older adults trained on a synthetic work task (Elsmore, 1994) with both groups acquiring skill in performing the complex task. After a five month retention period, older adults' initial performance on the multiple-task declined significantly more than younger adults. Both groups of adults regained their final trained level of performance after only four 5-minute trials. However, throughout the retention trials older adults only emphasized a single component of the complex task. Young adults successfully allocated attention to all task components. These and other aspects of the data suggest that a major locus of age-related decline in complex task performance is due to differential loss in strategic allocation of attention to component tasks. The data also show how measuring multiple-task performance may underestimate lack of component processing efficiency.
Aging and Technology: A Developmental View
Authors: Fozard J.L.
Published: January 2012

Applications of technology to improve the living and working environment and medical care of aging and aged people define a newly developing discipline called gerontechnology. Both this field and the human factors applications to aging that are embedded in it require a developmental view of the relationship between a person and her/his environment. From a developmental viewpoint, technology can affect aging through prevention of chronic problems that limit mobility; enhancement of social activities, work, education and recreation, and compensation for impaired functioning. Integration of technology into the lives of aging persons reacquires a developmental approach to the design of products and environments, consumer involvement in design and significant changes in the infrastructure for technology development and dispersal.
Mouse Accelerations and Performance of Older Computer Users
Authors: Walker Neff , Millians Jeff , Worden Aileen
Published: January 2012

In general, as people age, their movement control performance gets worse. Older adults take longer than younger adults to make similar movements. In this study we compared older and younger experienced computer users on their ability to use a mouse to position a cursor. The distance of the movements and the size of the targets were varied to represent a broad range of cursor control tasks that would be used on a computer. We also investigated the effects that dynamic gain adjustment had on performance for both age groups. Our results showed that older adults are both slower and less accurate when using the mouse. There was evidence that the age-related difference in performance was greater when the target size was smaller. Some of the difference in age-related performance could be ameliorated by using a specific dynamic gain function. The results are used to discuss possible age-related computer interface design guidelines
An Information-Theoretic Method for Revealing System Structure
Authors: Conant Roger C.
Published: January 2012

A generalized version of Shannon's information theory has proven useful in deducing the structure of general systems having many variables. In a system consisting of a human operator interacting with a physical apparatus, the detection of structure will presumably be useful in understanding and modeling the operator's performance. An overview of an information-theoretic technique for detecting system structure is provided.
Simple Strategies or Simple Tasks? Dynamic Decision Making in “Complex” Worlds
Authors: Kirlik Alex , Rothrock Ling , Walker Neff , Fisk Arthur D.
Published: January 2012

Decision makers in operational environments perform in a world of dynamism, time pressure, and uncertainty. Perhaps the most stable empirical finding to emerge from naturalistic studies in these domains is that, despite apparent task complexity, performers only rarely report the use of complex, enumerative decision strategies. If we accept that decision making in these domains is often effective, we are presented with a dilemma: either decision strategies are (covertly) more complex than these performers claim, or these tasks are (subtlely) more simple than they might appear. We present a set of empirical findings and modeling results which suggest the latter explanation: that the simplicity of decision making is not merely apparent but largely real, and that tasks of high apparent complexity may yet admit to rather simple types of decision strategies. We also discuss empirical evidence that sheds light on the error forms resulting from the tendency of performers to seek and employ heuristic solutions to dynamic, uncertain decision problems.
Using Reliability Information in Dynamic Decision Support: A Cognitive Engineering Approach
Authors: Mahan Robert P. , Kirschenbaum Susan S. , Jilig Jeff M. , Marino Christopher J.
Published: January 2012

The absence of feedback on the quality of decision making complicates the efficacy of methods designed to represent probabilistic information, especially in dynamic decision environments. The present study investigated the effects of changes in task information reliability on the performance of multi-cue judgment across conditions where the reliability of stimulus information was presented as a feedforward information source to enhance performance. Significant decrements in judgment performance were found across discrete changes in the reliability of source information. A Graphic format for presentation of reliability information produced high task performance under high and medium information reliability conditions, whereas an Animated presentation of reliability information produced high task performance under high and low reliability conditions. The results are evaluated in the context of work settings that call for dynamic decision making skills where the absence of immediate feedback is a constraint on performance.
Optimizing Aided Target-Recognition Performance
Authors: Entin Eileen B. , Entin Elliot E. , Serfaty Daniel
Published: January 2012

Combining the capability of an automated target recognition (ATR) system with the expertise of human operators has the potential to improve combined human-machine target-recognition performance. The objective of this work was to develop empirically validated guidelines for the display of information provided by an ATR system. Motivated by the premise that operators will have higher trust in an ATR system that justifies its decisions, this work explored alternative ATR displays that provided different types and amounts of information in support of the system's target decisions. Operators' usage of and preference for the displays were contrasted for low- and high-accuracy simulated ATR systems representative, respectively, of current and future technologies. Performance results suggested that the amount of supporting information that is displayed must be congruent with the ATR system's accuracy. Operators expressed a clear preference for an ATR system that provides a confidence rating for its target decisions. Based on the results design guidelines are suggested for displaying ATR information to help operators balance confidence in their own judgments with trust in the ATR's decisions.
Flight Deck Task Management: A Cognitive Engineering Analysis
Authors: Rogers William H.
Published: January 2012

Flight deck task management (TM) is a mostly cognitive function that is not well understood. There is increasing evidence of difficulties in unassisted pilot performance of TM, and it is anticipated that the complexity and scope of TM on future flight decks will increase. This all points to the need for a formal analysis of TM as part of the flight deck design process. To this end, cognitive engineering techniques were used to analyze the mental processes involved in flight deck TM. Normative and operational descriptions of TM were developed based, respectively, on previous analyses and pilot interviews. The two descriptions present interesting contrasts, but they are complementary, and in combination, provide a useful framework for beginning to address TM more formally within the flight deck design process.
Flight Crew Task Management in Non-Normal Situations
Authors: Schutte Paul C. , Trujillo Anna C.
Published: January 2012

Task management (TM) is always performed on the flight deck, although not always explicitly, consistently, or rigorously. Nowhere is TM as important as it is in dealing with non-normal situations. The objective of this study was to analyze pilot TM behavior for non-normal situations. Specifically, the study observed pilots' performance in a full workload environment in order to discern their TM strategies. This study identified four different TM prioritization and allocation strategies: ‘Aviate-Navigate-Communicate-Manage Systems’; ‘Perceived Severity;’ ‘Procedure Based;’ and ‘Event/Interrupt Driven.’ Subjects used these strategies to manage their personal workload and to schedule monitoring and assessment of the situation. The ‘Perceived Severity’ strategy for personal workload management combined with the ‘Aviate-Navigate-Communicate- Manage Systems’ strategy for monitoring and assessing appeared to be the most effective (fewest errors and fastest response times) in responding to the novel system failure used in this study.
Teaching Cognitive Systems Engineering
Authors: Woods David D. , Watts Jennifer C. , Graham John M. , Kidwell Daniel L. , Smith Philip J.
Published: January 2012

Our motivation for this paper is to stimulate discussions within the human factors community about teaching Cognitive Engineering at the undergraduate level. For the last fourteen years, the Cognitive Systems Engineering Laboratory at the Ohio State University has offered an undergraduate course in Cognitive Engineering (multiple offerings per year to Industrial Engineering, Industrial Design, Computer Science and Psychology students). In this paper, we will draw from our teaching experiences and describe our framework for teaching Cognitive Engineering.
Use of Visualization and Contextualization in Training Operators of Complex Systems
Authors: Chappel Alan R. , Mitchell Christine M.
Published: January 2012

The complexity of control systems in complex dynamic systems can lead to increased cognitive demands on the operator. Lacking accurate and complete system knowledge and/or interfaces that clearly present the system state and constraints, the operator may misunderstand the automation and its behaviors. This paper presents a research effort that uses visualization and contextualization in training as tools for addressing these problems. A problematic feature of modern glass cockpit aircraft's automated systems, vertical path navigation (VNAV), is used as a testbed. The VNAV Tutor uses contextualization and visualization to improve the pilot's understanding of VNAV control and the interaction of various levels of automation during VNAV usage. Furthermore, it attempts to help pilots build a robust conceptual model of vertical navigation operation. An evaluation showed that the VNAV Tutor enhanced both the conceptual understanding and use of the vertical navigation function by pilots.
Computers and Telecommunications in the Year 2000 - Virtual Environments and Intelligent Transportation Systems
Authors: Stanney Kay M. , Kennedy Robert S. , Yurcik William
Published: January 2012

In this, the third of three sets of position papers for the CTG-CSTG co-sponsored symposium on Computers and Telecommunications in the Year 2000, the authors provide us with a description of the future in two relatively new areas - virtual reality and intelligent transportation systems. In the first of the two papers, Kay M. Stanney and Robert S. Kennedy describe the performance efficiency, health and safety, and social issues that virtual technology will have to resolve, if virtual environments are to become commercially viable. In the second paper, William Yurcik describes the planned components of smart cars and smart highways, as well as the barriers we currently face in deploying associated intelligent transportation systems.
Can a Usable Product Flash 12:00? Perceived Usability is a Function of Usefulness
Authors: Schwartz Amy L. , Thomson Lynne , Seifert Colleen M. , Shafto Michael G.
Published: January 2012

Most usability quality measures are performance-based and center on detection of interface problems. This study focused on the customer's subjective assessment of ease of use for Ameritech telephony products relative to other consumer products that they use every day. This assessment was accomplished through an empirical study that measured customer attitudes and opinions about their experiences using 12 Ameritech telephony products and 16 other consumer products. The results demonstrate where these telephony products sit relative to other consumer products in customers' perceptions of usability. In addition, a Multidimensional Scaling Analysis of the data revealed three separate dimensions that underlie people's perceptions of usability: automaticity of use, value to the customer, and self-evident operation.
Traditional vs. Web Style Guides: How do they Differ?
Authors: Ratner Julie A. , Grose Eric , Forsythe Chris
Published: January 2012

This paper describes a study in which Web style guides were characterized, compared to traditional human-computer interface (HCI) style guides, and evaluated against findings from HCI reviews of web pages and applications. Findings showed little consistency among the 21 Web style guides assessed, with 75% of recommendations appearing in only one style guide. While there was some overlap, only 20% of Web-relevant recommendations from traditional style guides were found in Web style guides. Web style guides emphasized common look and feel, information display, and navigation issues, with little mention of many issues prominent in traditional style guides such as help, message boxes, and data entry. This difference is reinforced by other results showing that Web style guides address Web information-only pages with much greater success than web-based control enabling features, like buttons and entry fields. It is concluded that while the WWW represents a unique graphical user interface (GUI) environment, development of Web style guides has been less rigorous, with issues associated with web-based control enabling features neglected.
Factors Affecting Productivity and Ergonomics of Supermarket Checkers
Authors: Madigan Edwin F. , Lehman Katherine R.
Published: January 2012

A field study was conducted to examine scanning productivity and ergonomic issues as a function of scanner technology and product type. Cashiers performed both normal and staged activities using bi-optic and flat-bed scanners. In Phase One of the study, package handling and throughput were examined. Overall, bi-optic scanning was faster and some package types were handled more efficiently. Some package types, however, were handled less optimally (i.e., flipping and twisting scans). In phase two of the study, wrist acceleration measures were examined as a function of scanner technology and package type. Lower wrist accelerations in both hands for both flexion/extension planes of motion were found for the bi-optic scanner. In addition, bi-optic scanning also produced flexion/extension accelerations (both hands) and radial/ulnar accelerations (left hand only) that were below industry validated low risk benchmarks. The effects of scanner technology and package type on wrist acceleration and scanning behavior are discussed.
Providing the Team Experience to Human Factors and Ergonomics Students
Authors: Moroney W.F. , Green P.A. , Konz S.
Published: January 2012

The importance of the team experience to human factors and ergonomics students is discussed. Three faculty members describe different approaches, which they used to incorporate the team experience into their courses.
Acquiring User-Centered Design Skills by Designing and Evaluating World Wide Web Pages
Authors: Detweiler Mark C. , Hess Stephen M. , Peck Andrew C.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes the design, development, and outcomes of a project-based human factors course using the World Wide Web (WWW). The primary goal was to give students hands-on opportunities to learn about user-centered design (UCD) and evaluation by using Internet resources and creating and critiquing WWW pages. In addition, students developed sophisticated skills at working together in teams. Although the overhead involved in conducting a course of this type is considerably larger than more traditional lecture courses, students' levels of involvement, motivation, and enjoyment suggest this is an effective and valuable means of teaching UCD principles and techniques.
The Use of the Multivariate Johnson Distributions to Model Trunk Muscle Coactivation
Authors: Mirka Gary A. , Glasscock Naomi F. , Stanfield Paul M. , Psihogios Jennie P. , Davis Joseph R.
Published: January 2012

The accurate description of trunk muscle coactivation, and more specifically antagonist muscle activity, has recently been the focus of a great deal of research in the spine biomechanics literature. The research presented in this paper is an empirical approach to the problem. Electromyographic (EMG) data were collected from 28 subjects as they performed simulated lifting tasks. These EMG data were collected from the right and left pairs of the erector spinae, latissimus dorsi, rectus abdominis, external obliques and internal obliques as subjects performed a variety of trunk extension exertions. Nine repetitions of each combination of independent variables were performed by each subject. Included in these exertions were asymmetric postures and dynamic (isokinetic and constant acceleration) exertions. The data collected during these trials were used to develop marginal distributions of trunk muscle activity as well as a 10 × 10 correlation matrix that described how the muscles cooperated in the development of these extension torques. These elements were then combined to generate multivariate distributions describing the coactivation of the trunk musculature.
The Effects of Training History and Muscle Fatigue on Load Sharing in a Multiple Muscle System
Authors: Kelaher Dan
Published: January 2012

The effects of exercise training history and localized muscle fatigue on the load sharing patterns in a multiple muscle system were investigated. Six male and six female subjects of various training backgrounds performed fatiguing isokinetic knee extension exercises of quick onset and slow onset fatigue. Electromyographic data collected from the 4 superficial quadriceps muscles as well as the hamstring muscles was fed into an EMG-based model of the knee joint. The relative torque contribution of each muscle as predicted by the model was uniquely different for each of the 5 quadricep muscles modeled. The load sharing patterns were effected by the training group among other factors but they were not significantly effected by the interaction of training group and the onset of fatigue.
Pulling on Slippery versus Non-Slippery Surfaces: Can a Lifting Belt Help?
Authors: Lavender Steven A. , Chen Sang-Hsiung , Li Yi-Chun , Andersson Gunnar B.J.
Published: January 2012

Biomechanical research has shown that pull forces are largely generated by leg extension and by leaning (using one's body mass). However, this pulling technique requires sufficient friction in the foot floor interface. When pulling tasks are performed on slippery surfaces the center of gravity must be kept over the feet, thereby increasing the trunk's role in force generation. The purpose of this study was to investigate using electromyography (EMG) the muscle recruitments in the torso when pulling tasks are performed on slippery versus non-slippery surfaces. It was hypothesized that if a lifting belt acts to stiffen the torso, this would reduce the muscle activities detected with the EMG. Twelve subjects pulled at 40% of their maximal exertion values in four postures, with a lifting belt either tight or very loose, and under good footing conditions or extremely slippery footing conditions. When averaged across subjects all EMG activities increased under the slippery conditions. These increases ranged between 25 and 131 percent, although for some muscles the response to the slippery conditions was mediated by the pulling posture. The lifting belt had no effect on any of the muscle activities and created no differential muscle response due to the footing conditions or the pulling postures employed.
The Role of Power in Predicting Lifting Capacity
Authors: Dempsey Patrick G. , Ayoub M.M.
Published: January 2012

Preplacement strength testing is one of the most viable supplements to ergonomic job design. Previous studies have examined the roles of isometric, isokinetic, and some isoinertial measures in predicting lifting capacity. The goal of the current study was to examine the role of maximal lifting power in predicting maximum acceptable weight of lift (MAWL) relative to previously used isometric, isokinetic, and isoinertial tests. Twenty five male subjects participated in an experiment involving two isometric tests, peak isokinetic strength at velocities between 0.1 and 0.8 m. • sec.-1, and isoinertial lifting capacity and peak power measured on an incremental lifting machine. Peak isoinertial power was the measure most strongly correlated with MAWL, followed by isokinetic strength measured at 0.1 m. • sec.-1. Overall, the results support previous studies which have shown that dynamic strength measures are superior to static strength measures for the purposes of predicting maximum acceptable weights. Results of regression analyses and measures of prediction accuracy reported further support the use of dynamic measures.
The Effect of Lift Height on Maximal Lifting Capabilities of Men and Women
Authors: Rice Valerie J. , Murphy Michelle , Sharp Marilyn A. , Bills Randall K. , Mello Robert P.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of lift height on the one repetition maximum box lifting strength (1 RM) of men and women. Ten men and eleven women lifted to heights of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 ft using a 46.5 cm long x 31 cm wide x 23 cm high aluminum box with handles. All lifts were accomplished using correct lifting technique while facing forward. An ANOVA, focused on six heights and blocked for gender was used for analysis. A Newman-Kuels post-hoc analysis was used to examine the significant differences between means. Results revealed that men lifted more than women overall (F = 128.9, p < 0.01), and at each individual height (p < 0.01). When the genders were combined, the two highest lifts (5 and 6 ft) were not different from each other, nor were the two lowest (1 and 2 ft). All other heights differed from one another (p < 0.01). For both genders, the greatest percentage decrease from one height to the next occurred between 3 and 4 feet, when more upper body strength and torso involvement were required.
The Effects of Box Differences and Employee Job Experience on Trunk Kinematics & Low Back Injury Risk during Depalletizing Operations
Authors: Allread W. Gary , Marras William S. , Granata Kevin P. , Davis Kermit G. , Jorgensen Michael J.
Published: January 2012

Workers from a local food distribution center were studied depalletizing boxes from a pallet. The objectives of this study were to determine the change in trunk kinematics associated with selecting boxes having different characteristics and to observe if there was a relationship between trunk kinematics and employee job experience. The boxes varied in terms of: size; presence/absence of handles; weight; and location on a pallet. Worker job experience also was recorded. Kinematic trunk motions and subsequent risk of low back disorder (LBD), assessed using a risk model, were studied as dependent measures. Results indicated that the weight and layer conditions influenced most of the kinematic variables. The size and handle conditions influenced fewer dependent measures. All main effects but the handle condition had an influence on LBD risk. Most of the significant interaction effects were related to layer, illustrating the tremendous influence that box location on a pallet had on trunk kinematics and LBD risk. In fact, at the bottom pallet layers, LBD risk was the same regardless of the weight lifted or the size of the box. In studying job experience, inexperienced workers were found to have LBD risk values that were, on average, 5% higher than the experienced group. This study has been successful at pinpointing which box parameters are worthy of consideration to include in a food distribution environment for the purposes of reducing the risk of work-related LBD.