bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Man-Machine Analysis of Translation & Work Tasks of Skylab Films
Authors: Hosler W.W. , Boelter J.G. , Morrow J.R. , Jackson J.T.
Published: July 2017

An objective approach to determine the concurrent validity of computer-graphic models is real time film analysis. This technique was illustrated through the procedures and results obtained in an evaluation of translation of Skylab mission astronauts. The quantitative analysis was facilitated by the use of an electronic film analyzer, minicomputer, and specifically supportive software. The uses of this technique for human factors research are: 1) validation of theoretical operator models; 2) biokinetic analysis; 3) objective data evaluation; 4) dynamic anthropometry; 5) empirical time-line analysis; and 6) consideration of human variability. Computer assisted techniques for interface design and evaluation have the potential for improving the capability for human factors engineering.
Symposium: Human Factors Engineering for the Air Force; A Complete Examination
Authors: Parsons H. McIlvaine , Williges Robert C. , Topmiller Donald A. , Jones Edward R. , Hendrick Hal W. , Snyder Harry L. , Eggleston Robert G. , Birt Joseph A.
Published: July 2017

This symposium will review the technical findings of an Air Force-contractor study that comprehensively examined the needs of human factors engineering in the research, development, test-and-evaluation and operations process for Air Force systems. A nine-month team effort concluded in September 1979 constituted one of the most intensive and extensive inquiries into the human factors field that has been undertaken.
The Social Security Administration's Human Factors Project
Authors: Bernstein David
Published: July 2017

Over the years at SSA it has not been the custom to view people and automated systems as integral parts of a single overall SSA process. Traditionally, systems have been designed by systems analysts who, typically, know little about SSA programs or jobs and who have defined systems requirements in their own terms. Systems development costs were never assessed in terms of their impact on the productivity of people. As a result, operating procedures, workflow, and even the structure of jobs in the non-ADP component of the SSA process have more and more come to be designed around the rigid requirements and limitations of automation. Throughout SSA, specialized jobs have been created to handle the complexities of interacting directly with inflexible SSA systems.
Two New Consumer Products: First the Good News
Authors: Bennett Corwin A. , Tang Jack W. Y. , Raju Kosuri
Published: July 2017

Ideas were developed and tested to improve two consumer products. A spring was affixed to chopsticks to eliminate the need to perform opening movements. An experiment with ten adult, non-chopstick users showed a reduction in time requirements of 50% with a variety of foods. Crutch supports were developed for use in backless seating. An experiment with ten people showed relief of back discomfort compared to no support, but the creation of discomfort in armpits and arms within one-half hour. Overall the crutch supports were no better than nothing at all.
Evaluation of Job Physical Requirements to Aid in the Placement of Medically Restricted Workers
Authors: Rabourn Randall A.
Published: July 2017

This presentation describes the application of ergonomic principles by one company and its medical department to aid in the placement of medically restricted employees. Job physical requirements are systematically defined in terms of biomechanics and energy expenditure parameters as are workers' physical limitations. The job and employee data are then used to promote the safe, healthful and efficient job placement of the employee. The job physical requirement data has also been valuable in the medical treatment of workers and in workplace redesign.
A Computer Aided Instrument Panel Design Procedure—LAYGEN
Authors: Pulat Babur Mustafa , Ayoub M. A.
Published: July 2017

LAYGEN (LAYout GENerator) is a computerized procedure for the design of instrument panels where the operator is mainly standing as in the control rooms of chemical and nuclear plants, refineries, and power distribution networks.
Visual Comfort Zone
Authors: Mital Anil , Halcomb Charles G. , Asfour S. S.
Published: July 2017

This paper presents the panel width for console/work place design (seated operator) based upon performance. Panel width recommendations are made for male and female operators.

Independent variables investigated included the two distinct color contrasts (blue on white and black on white) and sex differences. The color contrast and sex variables did not have any effect (p ≤ .05) on comfort zones although both male and female subjects made more errors with the blue on white color contrast.

The visual comfort zone (panel width) was found to be the area between two approximate semi-circles (7.61 cm radius and 53.34 cm radius) which is considerably smaller than previous recommendations based on reach and visual angle.
Endurance and Recovery from Dynamic Muscular Activity
Authors: Kamon E. , Yates J. W.
Published: July 2017

Endurance time as a function of work in terms of fraction of maximal aerobic capacity is suggested on the basis of the current literature on physiological responses to work. The third of the endurance time to exhaustion is used as a safe working period. The recovery time or rest period for each working time is scheduled on the basis of the data in the literature on lactic acid production in the muscles, its diffusion into and its rate of elimination from the circulatory system.
Some Product Design Review Practices and Procedures to Assure Lifecycle System Safety
Authors: Brauer Mark M.
Published: July 2017

This presentation explains four crucial ingredients of a philosophy for “Effective Product Safety Design Review Practices and Procedures” which will be discussed in more detail by the special panel of the Safety Technical Interest Group at the HFS Annual Meeting during October 1979 in Boston, MA. The views presented touch upon practitioner qualification and data-bank growth potential, but do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Army or any group within the Department of Defense.
Impact of Theory of Accident Causation on Intervention Strategies
Authors: Shealy Jasper E.
Published: July 2017

Paper shows how the belief that one has about how accidents happen (Theory of Accident Causation) affects the design of the Accident Report Form, the type of information gathered, the nature of your accident data base, the analysis of the data and, finally, the way in which you intervene in the situation. Two different approaches are examined, one which is typical of most existing systems, the other represents a much improved system that points the way to more effective intervention strategies.
Air Combat Maneuvering Performance Measurement
Authors: Kelly Michael J. , Lee Wooldridge A. , Hennessy Robert T. , Reed John C.
Published: July 2017

Due to the complex, dynamic and fast-moving nature of the air combat task, performance assessment during air-to-air combat provides many unique measurement problems. A combined analytical and empirical technical approach was used to develop a candidate measurement structure and algorithm for the measurement of pilot performance during one-versus-one air combat maneuvering. Nearly all of 28 candidate measures were found to discriminate between high and low skilled pilots during free engagements on the Simulator for Air-to-Air Combat. Discriminant analyses provided a measurement algorithm consisting of 13 measures which accounted for 51% of the variance in the performance data and which predicted membership in high or low skill groups with 92% accuracy.
The Development of Objective Inflight Performance Assessment Procedures
Authors: Childs Jerry M.
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this research was to develop procedures for objectively evaluating Initial Entry Rotary Wing (IERW) student performance in flight. Maneuvers of the Basic Instrument phase were addressed. Descriptive inflight scoring procedures to assess absolute deviations of desired values from observed values at designated times, were developed. Desired values were determined on the basis of the rates specified in IERW training guides. Observed values were instrument indications of airspeed, altitude, or heading at those times. Four tolerance categories were incorporated into alternative six-point maneuver scoring algorithms designed to assess aircraft control precision. The criterion for acceptable proficiency was the maintenance of each sampled measure within standard IERW tolerance limits for each sampling point of a maneuver. Tests of the objective scoring procedures were conducted in the UH-1 flight simulator.
What Do Pilots See in Displays?
Authors: Harris Randall L. , Christhilf David M.
Published: July 2017

Based on pilots' scanning data and discussions with pilots, general aviation flight instruments have been classified into three categories. The classification is related to the type of information presented, the way the information is used, and the pilot's role as a monitor and controller. Suggestions are made for modifying the instruments of one category to improve the information displayed such that when monitoring, the pilot can more quickly extract the information needed.
Consideration of Existing Anthropometric Data in Industrial Workplace Layout Design
Authors: Das Biman , Grady Robert M.
Published: July 2017

Industrial workplace layout design dimensions were determined, through the use of the existing anthropometric data, for performing industrial tasks in sitting, standing and combination of both sitting and standing positions for general male, female and combination of both male and female operators and individual male and female operators for the 5th, 50th and 95th percentiles (only the workplace layout design dimensions for the seated operator are presented in this paper). The normal and maximum reach dimensions were based on the most commonly used industrial operations, which require a grasping movement. However, appropriate allowances were provided to adjust the reach dimensions for other types of industrial operations. To facilitate the design of industrial workplace layout, the normal and maximum horizontal and vertical clearance dimensions and reference points for the horizontal and vertical clearances were established. Squires' concept for the determination of normal working area in the horizontal plane was recommended in preference to Farley's.
The Need for, and Benefits of, Documenting Human Factors Efforts
Authors: Stern Kenneth R.
Published: July 2017

This presentation describes the need for, and benefits of, documenting savings realized through the application of human factors principles. Benefits of documenting savings are described as they affect the human factors specialist, management, and the customer. Non-recurring costs which result from a human factors investment, as well as resultant savings, must be considered in determining the cost-effectiveness of the intervention. Areas in which the human factors specialist can have an impact are defined and alternative methods of reporting savings are described.
Aging and the Ability to Command
Authors: Erwin Donald E.
Published: July 2017

Changes in cognitive processes, personality, and physiological functioning associated with normative aging can affect decision-making capabilities, particularly under conditions of situational urgency. Those aspects of decision environments most likely to precipitate age-related performance decrements are discussed in terms of their potential for remedial human engineering.
Personal Equipment Design for Low Coal Mines
Authors: Sanders Mark , Beith Barry , Blake Tyler , Peay James
Published: July 2017

This paper presents the results of three studies investigating alternative designs for personal equipment carried by low seam coal miners. The first part reports on an evaluation of a coiled cap-lamp cord designed to reduce the incidence and severity of snagging and catching accidents. The second part reports on the effect of battery pack size and weight on speed of human locomotion. The last part describes a study designed to assess the effect of various configurations of retroreflective material affixed to miner's outer garments on detection in a simulated mine environment.
Human Factors Review of Roof Bolter Design
Authors: Helander Martin , Conway Ernest J. , Curtin Richard
Published: July 2017

Roof bolting is one of the most difficult and dangerous jobs performed in underground mining. In addition to being exposed to the ever present danger of roof falls, the operator must often work in cramped quarters, assuming awkward postures. Added to this is the fact that roof bolting machines have many man-machine design deficiencies. This paper will analyze accident data for roof bolter machine operators and review a number of man-machine design deficiencies suspected to contribute to these accidents.
The Physiological Responses to Low Coal Mining
Authors: Bethea N.J. , Bobo M. , Ayoub M.M.
Published: July 2017

The Physiological responses of male and female coal miners measured both above and below ground were studied to ascertain the characteristics and task demands of mining coal in very restricted surroundings (seam heights 48 inches or lower). Physical work capacity was estimated from expired air analysis and a stationary bicycle ergometer ride, while underground oxygen consumption was estimated from total ventilation using a Max Planck Respirometer. Results indicate that low coal miners do not possess higher maximum oxygen consumption values than non-mining populations but when working at the most demanding jobs in the mine workers function up to 66% of their maximum aerobic capacity. Individual task analysis for oxygen uptake and kilocalorie expenditure is discussed.
The Finite Intersection Test: A New Multivariate Statistical Technique Applicable to the Evaluation of Complex Systems
Authors: Reising John M. , Krishnaiah P.R.
Published: July 2017

In complex human-machine systems, multidimensional behavior is required of the operator. Consequently, there is no commonly-accepted, single measure of operator performance which can be utilized to determine the efficiency of the human-machine interaction. Because the behavior is multidimensional, multivariate statistics must be used to analyze the multiple measures gathered during system evaluation. While multivariate analogues to analysis of variance (ANOVA) exist, there are also a number of candidate multivariate analogues to the post-ANOVA simultaneous comparison tests. This paper describes a newly developed multivariate, simultaneous comparison test–Finite Intersection Test (FIT)–and provides an example of FIT's application to the analysis of multivariate data.
An Integrated Approach to Pilot Performance Evaluation
Authors: Hockenberger Roik L. , Childs Jerry M.
Published: July 2017

The issue of norm- versus criterion-referenced evaluation methods is discussed in the context of undergraduate pilot training, and an approach that integrates both methods is described. It is suggested that such an integrated approach would facilitate advanced training management concepts such as proficiency advancement, but would not pose significant user acceptance difficulties.
A Simulator Evaluation of Age Effects on Symbol Sign Recognition
Authors: Allen R. Wade , Parseghian Zareh , Van Valkenburgh Paul G.
Published: July 2017

The use of symbolic road signs is proliferating on the highways, and there is some concern in their effectiveness, particularly by elderly drivers. This paper describes an experimental study of problems encountered by a broad age range of drivers in learning and retaining symbolic information. A driving simulator was used to present 72 symbol signs to subjects during 25 minutes “drives.” Performance measures included the correctness of sign recognition, and the distance from the signs at which recognition took place.

The experimental design looked at the effects of age and training on the learning and retention of symbol knowledge. The overall results showed strong age effects, but no influence due to the type of symbol training employed. All age groups learned and retained roughly the same number of symbols, but the older age groups started with less symbol knowledge initially. This result is hypothesized to be a generational effect rather than an age diminished-capability. Data interpretation also indicates that older subjects require longer recognition and response times.
Model of Visual Detection and Discrimination
Authors: Thomas James P.
Published: July 2017

A model of visual detection and discrimination is presented which incorporates recent concepts of multiple, spatially-tuned channels. Predictions about performance on detection and discrimination tasks are derived and supporting data presented. The predictions and data are inconsistent with threshold-type models.
Mini-Remotely Piloted Vehicle Precision Tracking Evaluation
Authors: Fulkerson D. C. , Hershberger M. L. , Scanlan L. A.
Published: July 2017

The research reported assessed the ability of a human operator to manually null the residual pointing errors that remain on the output of an automatic target tracker under conditions of data link bandwidth reduction. Three operator performance evaluations were conducted using a hybrid computer simulation of the mini-RPV system. The first study assessed the ability of an operator to null the residual errors using a baseline system design. In the study, 32 combinations of environmental and display factors were examined to determine their impact on pointing accuracy. In no case did the average performance reach the 50 microradian standard deviation criterion. The remaining two studies evaluated candidate modifications to the mini-RPV system which would be expected to improve overall tracking performance. Based on these studies, a modified system was identified which allowed criterion tracking accuracy while yielding a 32-to-1 reduction in the data link bandwidth.
New Approaches to the Electrophysiological Characterization of Vigilance Behavior
Authors: Miller James C.
Published: July 2017

Justifications for two expanded approaches to the assessment of the physiological correlates of vigilance behavior are presented. The approaches include the consideration of heart rate within the context of cardiovascular function and the short-epoch analysis of the spontaneous EEG.
Computer Assisted Displays Enabling Internalization and Reduction of Operator Workload in Higher Order Systems, or, Pushing the Barrier of Human Control beyond Second Order Systems
Authors: Eberts Ray , Schneider Walter
Published: July 2017

It has long been known that the control of high order systems (second order and above) is much more difficult than controlling lower order systems. In order to make the higher order system more controllable, research and engineering practice have emphasized removing the operator from the direct control of the vehicle, reducing the order of control of the system (by quickening), and designing displays that predict the path of the vehicle. These methods have been developed to try to compensate for the inability of operators to master higher order control functions. We are proposing a novel type of display indicator which allows subjects to spatially control and conceptualize higher order control systems.
Man-Computer Interface Design Guidance: State of the Art
Authors: Ramsey H. Rudy , Atwood Michael E.
Published: July 2017

A major literature survey investigated the state of the art in human factors in computer systems. The survey was concerned both with the status of human factors research in the area of user-computer interaction and with the current state of user-computer interaction technology and practices. The principal goal of the study was to determine the feasibility of human factors guidelines for interactive computer systems, and to investigate their possible form and content. Thus, the study addressed both the state of the art in the field and the information needs and problem-solving behavior of interactive system designers, since these personnel would be the primary users of guidelines. It is concluded that insufficient data exist for the development of a “quantitative reference handbook” in this area, and that that form of presentation may not be appropriate anyway. On the other hand, a “human factors design guide” – which discusses issues, alternatives, and methods in the context of the design process – appears both feasible and needed.
Man/Machine Design Guidelines for the Use of Screen Display Terminals
Authors: Granda Richard E.
Published: July 2017

The impact of visual display terminals on man/machine communications is explored. The necessity of developing behaviorally valid guidelines for effective user performance is discussed, with emphasis on the importance of relating the guidelines to user cognitive processes. Quantitative substantiation of these “principles” through experimentation is underscored. Finally, the extendability of the guideline approach to interactive graphics is broached.
Man-Machine Interface Requirements Definition: Task Demands and Functional Capabilities
Authors: Smith Sidney L.
Published: July 2017

The man-machine interface (MMI) is a critical element in the specification of computer software for on-line information systems. To help ensure effective MMI software design, a requirements matrix is proposed to categorize the functional capabilities required for characteristic user tasks. Based on this matrix, design guidelines can be tailored to required capabilities. This approach to specifying MMI design must be tried in system acquisition programs to evaluate its usefulness.
MMI Design Documentation: Representing the User's Model of a System
Authors: Pew R. W. , Sidner C. L. , Vittal J. J.
Published: July 2017

It is argued that the human factors-oriented system developer is armed with an inadequate set of tools for describing future designs and user requirements in terms compatible with a system analyst's needs. Task analysis and function allocation procedures are not entirely adequate. A method for procedure description that creates a syntactically formal specification using actions and objects which may or may not be formally definable is described as a partial solution to the problem. The ultimate solution is described as the use of a knowledge representation language to specify both the user's model and the implementer's specifications in order to make possible direct comparisons and promote communication across the design interface.
An Ability Evaluation System for Persons with Physical Disabilities
Authors: Malzahn Don , Kapur Rajiv
Published: July 2017

Persons with severe physical disabilities are becoming part of the industrial workforce in the United States as mandated by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Methods of effective placement and efficient modification of workplaces must be developed if this moral and legal mandate is to be met. This paper describes a system for quantitatively measuring industrially relevant residual motor abilities and a method of efficiently identifying task modification requirements.
Accident Avoidance Skill Training (AAST)
Authors: Bathurst James R.
Published: July 2017

New equipment and techniques for training drivers to avoid crashing following imminent threats from both unmoving objects and other moving automobiles were developed and applied. Sixteen students, ranging from newly licensed teenagers to adults with more than five years of driving experience, were exposed to the realistic crash avoidance experience provided by the new equipment and techniques on a driving range. Initial differences were noted between the beginning drivers and the experienced adults in their respective abilities to avoid crashes. Before leaving the program, however, the drivers of each age and experience subgroup had become significantly better and about equal in their ability to escape the imminent danger faced. More encouraging was that all the students retested nine months after training not only had retained the crash avoidance skills developed, they improved them.
Flying Skill Maintenance
Authors: Eddowes Edward E. , DeMaio Joseph C. , Eubanks James L. , Lyon Don R. , Killion Thomas H. , Nullmeyer Robert T.
Published: July 2017

A skills maintenance and reacquisition training (Project SMART) research program has been developed to improve Air Force continuation flying training. Project SMART consists of four phases: 1. Preliminary evaluation of research concepts and procedures, 2. Identification and definition of critical flying skills and development of skill measures, 3. Evaluation of skill maintenance and reacquisition training program alternatives, and 4. Measurement of skill retention. The program is sponsored by Air Force Headquarters and is being accomplished by the Air Force Human Resources Laboratory with participation by the Strategic Air Command and the Tactical Air Command. Selected studies completed during Phases 1 and 2 are reported.
The Remote Manipulator System Second Generation Schemes
Authors: McCullough J.R.
Published: July 2017

The Shuttle Remote Manipulator System is the payload handling system of the Space Shuttle Orbiter and will be used to deploy and retrieve satellites on-orbit.

This paper gives an overview of future on-orbit manipulator tasks and discusses potential second generation RMS schemes.

The paper concludes by identifying areas of research and development that will be required to ensure the appropriate level of technology development.
Survey and Assessment of Nuclear Power Plant Control Room Operability
Authors: Baker Clifford C. , West Robin , Mallory Kenneth M.
Published: July 2017

As part of an effort to develop human engineerging guidelines and a methodology for the evaluation of nuclear power plant control room operability, the Essex Corporation conducted T & E (test and evaluation) reviews of a wide sample of nuclear power plant control rooms. The objectives of these design reviews were: 1) selection, application, and development of human engineering evaluation guidelines applicable to the nuclear power industry; 2) selection and development of data collection and analysis procedures; and 3) identification of recurrent human engineering design problems in the control rooms of currently operating nuclear power plants. The present paper discusses the approach taken and the findings in item three above.

Thirteen control rooms were visited, and guidelines and data collection methods under various degrees of development were applied. Following control room visits, data were analyzed according to usability, number of incidences of similar or identical operability design problems, criticality of problems with respect to both public and plant safety, and subjective assessment of operational affects due to human engineering problems in design.

Results to date show that the following areas have recurrent operability design problems: layout of controls and displays according to either operational or functional use; coding of information for visual and auditory presentation; job performance aid and procedures design; communications; environmental factors such as ambient noise; violations in control and display conventions employed; use of conventions which violate population stereotypes; and failure to design within anthropometric constraints. Further work is being conducted by Essex Corporation to identify critical human engineering deficiencies in control room design and to select adequate yet cost-effective and corrective backfits.
Flight Simulator Runway Visual Textural Cues for Landing
Authors: Buckland George H.
Published: July 2017

The effect of visual textural patterns superimposed upon the runway touch-down zone area was studied as a potential factor in excessive vertical velocity at touchdown during flight simulation. Six simulated daytime runways with varying degrees of textural cues, as well as one night runway scene were used. The average vertical velocities at touchdown were higher in the simulator than comparable test landings in actual aircraft, but the textural cues did produce statistically significant differences in simulated vertical velocities at touchdown. Apparently the texture patterns did help to improve pilot performance, but they were not sufficient by themselves to completely solve the problem of excessive vertical velocities at touchdown.
The Effect of Inter-Stimulus Intervals on the Perception of Short Flashes of Red and Green Light
Authors: Bateman Robert P.
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether or not human perception of two equal flashes of colored light is a function of the interstimulus interval. Thirty subjects with normal color vision were presented with two 5 ms flashes of light, the first at 697 nm (red) and the second at 565 nm (green). The interstimulus interval was varied from 5 to 100 ms. When the interval was less than 30 ms, subjects reported seeing yellow flash. From 30 to 50 ms, subjects reported seeing only a green flash. Above 50 ms, subjects were able to identify two flashes, one red and one green. These results constitute a contradiction of Bloch's Law, which states that for interstimulus intervals less than 70 ms, stimuli are summed to produce perception. The implications of these results on a model for human color vision are discussed.
Selection of Performance Evaluation Tests for Environmental Research
Authors: Carter Robert C. , Kennedy Robert S. , Bittner Alvah C.
Published: July 2017

A battery of Performance Evaluation Tests for Environmental Research (PETER) that is suitable for use in repeated measures experiments is being developed at the Naval Biodynamics Laboratory. This paper describes the sources of tasks which have been considered for inclusion in PETER. It also lists the tests in the source batteries which have or have not yet been considered for inclusion in PETER. The performance content of the tests that have been considered is compared with the content of those that have not. Recommendations are made for selection of additional tests from the source batteries which will not be redundant with tests that already have been considered. This report puts PETER into the context of the tests and test batteries which came before it.
Mental Performance Impairment in Heat Stress
Authors: Hancock Peter A.
Published: July 2017

The present paper describes a re-analysis of the relationship between threshold for unimpaired mental performance and heat stress. Review of the data presented by Wing (1965a), and of more recent research, suggests that heat induced mental performance decrement is a function of imminent thermophysiological collapse and occurs at a much higher level of heat stress than Wing has proposed.
Perception and Performance in the Heat
Authors: Beshir M.Y. , Ramsey J.D.
Published: July 2017

This study reports an evaluation of the effects of heat exposure on human subject's abilities to estimate their physiological responses, perceptual-motor performance and thermal comfort. The differences between male and female subjective estimates of the effects of heat on drowsiness, boredom, and fatigue are also reported.
Cost Effectiveness of Operator Features in Equipment Design
Authors: Williams Jeremy C.
Published: July 2017

In design negotiation, the attribution of credible values to the incorporation or deletion of operator features allows engineers the freedom to judge the overall effect of human factors recommendations in relation to the achievement of a design specification.

Likewise in the development phase, product planners frequently need more precise statements about productivity, training needs and general operational performance than, “it will be greater/less, worse/better than…”.

The method described utilises measured and synthetic data, learning theory and Markov processes to calculate the likelihood of operator task failure. These failure rates are then treated via filter factors derived from the application of a variation of Delphi Technique to give a global statement of the likelihood of operator failure resulting in unscheduled calls for service.

Using the relationship between the cost of service calls and the overall life cost of developing, manufacturing, marketing and supporting a leased product, it is then possible to place credible values on the design features in question.

Thus during the design process it becomes feasible to calculate the likely effects of human factors recommendations and modifications in relation to manufacturing costs, and thereby facilitate rational assessment of their implementation on a sound economic basis.

This technique has been used to considerable effect, and represents a useful additional tool for the human factors practitioner in the design negotiation process. Further developments and refinements are planned, and it is anticipated that a similar technique will shortly be available to enable assessment of the effectiveness of product training programs and job aids.
Human Interfaces for “Smart” Machines
Authors: Schulz Kenneth A.
Published: July 2017

Microprocessor-based products pose human interface problems which are somewhat different from those encountered with either conventional equipment, or general-purpose computers. Some of the differences which lead to special problems are: (1) Special purpose interface hardware can usually be justified on the basis of production volume; (2) General purpose interface components can be easily accommodated, and shared among several display and control functions; (3) Controls, displays and functions can be (and usually are) linked through software rather than hardware, allowing interactive logic to be implemented at little cost. These capabilities expand the range of design choices beyond those covered by classical human engineering guides. Methods and data are needed to help the designer select effective interface hardware and procedures.

This paper describes a preliminary conceptual scheme for the design of “smart” interfaces. Several experiments concerned with specific interface features are discussed and related to the conceptual scheme.
Low Cost Remote Control Continuous Miner
Authors: Hartley Craig S. , Kwitowski August J.
Published: July 2017

Preliminary results are presented for a study to determine the feasibility of providing adequate human-engineered cabs in thin coal seams through the use of a remotely positioned operator. This study, which is being performed under contract to the U.S. Bureau of Mines, concentrates on the development of a cab for a continuous miner and involves three phases. First, workers were observed and questioned to produce a detailed task analysis of work performed by the miner operator and his helper, and a critical incidents analysis was conducted to define system requirements for handling unusual events in the work place. Second, evaluations were made of remote continuous mining system components in order to develop a baseline system configuration. Third, a baseline design concept was developed consisting of a remote, two-wheeled trailer cab linked to a Jeffrey 101 miner by coaxial cable. The miner is modified by adding to it an automatic cable handling system, a multiplexed remote control and sensor system, and two controllable closed circuit TV cameras. Potential safety and economic benefits are presented for the baseline concept.
Assessing Visibility from Underground Coal Mining Equipment
Authors: Sanders Mark S. , Bobick Thomas , Peay James
Published: July 2017

A task analytic approach was used to define information requirements and visual features which served as sources of information for operations of continuous miners, shuttle cars and scoops. Information requirements were prioritized and the location of visual features determined. From this analysis, visual attention locations, containing one or more important visual features, were identified. A procedure was developed for assessing whether operators in existing machines could be expected to see the visual attention locations. The procedure makes use of a Human Eye Reference Measurement Instrument (HERMI) designed for this project and an outside-in photographic procedure.
Primary and Secondary Task Analysis of Step Tracking: An Event-Related Potentials Approach
Authors: Kramer Arthur , Wickens Christopher , Vanasse Linda , Heffley Earle , Donchin Emanuel
Published: July 2017

The utility of the Event Related Brain Potential for the evaluation of task load was investigated. Subjects performed a discrete step tracking task with either first or second order control dynamics. In different conditions, the subject covertly counted auditory probes, visual probes, or tracking target steps presented in a Bernoulli series. In a fourth experimental condition subjects performed the primary tracking task without a secondary task. In the auditory condition, an increase in the difficulty of the primary task produced a decrease in the amplitude of the P300 elicited by the secondary count task. The introduction of the primary task in the visual condition resulted in an initial reduction in P300 amplitude but increasing task difficulty failed to attenuate the P300 further. A positive relationship between primary task difficulty and P300 amplitude was obtained in the step conditions. Furthermore, this effect did not require that the step changes be counted. The results are addressed in terms of the relative advantages of primary and secondary ERP workload assessment techniques.
The Desk as a Barrier
Authors: Fong Yau , Bennett Corwin A.
Published: July 2017

Using a scale model of a private office, 206 subjects placed a visitor's chair according to role playing instructions which defined their role, status and a discussion task. Most subjects placed the chair with the desk as a barrier from the occupant. All role playing variables had significant effects. Personal distance was of little consequence.

In contrast to some behavior observed in offices, in this situation, the desk as a barrier was apparently seen as protective.
Composing Letters with a Simulated Listening Typewriter
Authors: Gould John D. , Conti John , Hovanyecz Todd
Published: July 2017

Speech recognition is not yet advanced enough to provide people with a reliable listening typewriter with which they could compose documents. The aim of this experiment was to determine if an imperfect listening typewriter would be useful. Participants dictated either in isolated words or in continuous speech, and used a simulated listening typewriter which recognized a limited vocabulary as well as one which recognized an unlimited one. Results suggest some versions may be at least as good as writing.
Psychometric Measures of Task Difficulty Under Varying Levels of Information Load
Authors: Helm Wade R.
Published: July 2017

Two experiments were performed to determine the efficiency of male and female subjects in estimating task difficulty and task performance relative to actual task performance. In experiment 1, three groups (N = 24) used one of three types of scales to rate either task difficulty or task performance on a four-choice discrimination task varied across 7 levels of information load. Correlations of .95, .89 and .85 were obtained between actual task performance and ratings of task performance, ratio ratings of task difficulty and category ratings of task difficulty respectively. In experiment two, two groups (N = 32) used either a ratio or category scale to rate task difficulty on each of four tasks: a four-choice discrimination task, a Sternberg target identification task, a random presentation of the four-choice or Sternberg task and the simultaneous presentation of the four-choice and Sternberg tasks. Each of the four tasks were equated in information load and varied across 7 levels. Analysis of variance indicated that the ratio ratings of task difficulty more accurately reflected actual task performance over all four tasks than did the category ratings of task difficulty. In both experiments no sex differences were noted in either task performance or task ratings.
Performance Decrement at Cabin Altitudes: A Replication
Authors: Benel Russell A. , Storm William F.
Published: July 2017

Several reports have indicated performance decrements may occur at altitudes below those experienced in pressurized aircraft cabins. In order to verify these findings a partial replication of one of these studies was undertaken. Four groups of five subjects learned a complex choice reaction time task (Manikin Task) at ground level and simulated altitudes of 1524 M, 2438 M, and 3048 M (5, 8, and 10,000 ft.). Performance was significantly worse for the altitude groups during the initial trials and marginally worse for the higher two altitudes on the final trials. Consistent with previous findings, performance at altitude was impaired. Since such impairment remains even when a task is fairly well-practiced, it is concluded that asymptotic performance may be affected as well.
Empirical Evaluation of the Basic Programming Language
Authors: Pagerey Peter D.
Published: July 2017

Twelve subjects, six with programming experience and six without, learned a subset of the IBM 5110 Computing System BASIC programming language commands. Subjects used an instructional text which contained example programs for them to run and problems for which they had to write, run, and debug simple but realistic programs. All of the subjects were either full or part time students at a local community college. Subjects with programming experience completed the course in almost half the time, asked fewer questions, scored significantly higher on the quiz, and completed more programs on the first attempt than did subjects without programming experience. Based on the results, subjects’ suggestions, and experimenter observations, a number of recommendations about the language were made to improve the ease with which subjects could learn and use this version of BASIC.
Composing Letters with Computer-Based Text Editors
Authors: Gould John D.
Published: July 2017

This experiment studies how people compose letters using computer-based text editors, and compares the results with longhand writing of similar letters. Ten IBM Research professionals who regularly use computer- based text editors composed 4 letters with each method. These participants were videotaped while they composed (Figure 1), and their interactions with the text-editor were automatically time-stamped for later analyses. These participants generally used either Redit or Edit, both of which are line-oriented text editors.

Results (Table 1) showed that participants spent two-thirds of their time “planning” their text-edited letters (just as was found in previous experiments for writing, dictating, and speaking). Text-edited letters required 50 per cent more time to compose than did written letters. This was due in part to more changes, difficulties in formatting, text positioning, and reviewing and modifying the formatted version of text-edited letters (Table 2). These results are discussed in some detail in a technical report available from the author, and they will appear in Human Factors journal in late 1981.
Performance-Based Maintenance Training
Authors: Harris Douglas H.
Published: July 2017

This panel presentation addresses concepts, methods, and systems for basing maintenance training on the measured results of maintenance performance. The four scheduled presentations encompass a cross-section of maintenance settings and training approaches. Both developmental and experimental results are presented.
The use of Quantified Expert Judgement in the Assessment of Human Reliability in Nuclear Power Plant Operation
Authors: Embrey David E.
Published: July 2017

The procedures of system reliability assessment in nuclear power are described, with particular reference to the need for evaluating human reliability. The shortcomings of existing approaches are discussed, and an alternative methodology described, which utilises quantified subjective judgement.
Evaluating Nuclear Control Room Improvements Through Analysis of Critical Operator Decisions
Authors: Pew Richard W. , Miller Duncan C. , Feehrer Carl E.
Published: July 2017

Decision making by nuclear power plant operators was studied in the context of four recent “off-normal” incidents, in order to assess the potential impact of various proposed control room improvements. A model of operator decision making was applied to critical operator decisions during each event in order to determine how each proposed improvement could help prevent or resolve decision-making errors. The results indicated that time stress on the crew played an appreciable role in the performance failures identified, and that a combination of improvements will be necessary to address this problem.
Application of the Saint Code in Modelling and Analyzing Some Human Tasks in Nuclear Power Plants
Authors: Metwally A. Mohsen M. , Sabri Zeinab A. , Adams S. Keith , Husseiny Abdo A.
Published: July 2017

Two techniques useful for the simulation and analysis of human performance in tasks involving nuclear power plant operation, maintenance and testing are evaluated. The SAINT and THERP techniques are compared with respect to their relevance to conducting task analysis, estimation of human error probabilities and accounting for performance shaping factors in nuclear power plants. The results show that the SAINT is more flexible and has promising features for human engineering studies of complex systems when compared to the static THERP technique currently used in nuclear safety analysis.
Abbreviations for Automated Systems
Authors: Moses Franklin L. , Ehrenreich S. L.
Published: July 2017

Methods were sought for generating abbreviations that are easy to learn and remember. At present, abbreviations for automated systems often reflect the idiosyncratic preferences of a small group of people. To remedy this situation, research was undertaken to evaluate alternative abbreviation methods and to specify an algorithm for their systematic generation. The resulting algorithm is built around a truncation method with fixed-length abbreviations.
Fuel Shutoff Controls on Diesel Tractors: An Investigation of a Population Stereotype
Authors: Adams S. Keith , Williams David L.
Published: July 2017

Diesel powered equipment is in widespread use throughout agriculture, construction, mining, forestry, and other outdoor industries. In the event of an accident involving a turnover or collision, there is a high probability that the engine will continue to run, possibly presenting a severe hazard to the operator as well as to other persons in the area. This paper presents the results of a pilot study designed to survey the ability of persons to locate and correctly operate the shutoff control on a diesel engine. This ability is studied as a function of the type of control and its marking and also as a function of individual experience with power equipment in general. Training did not have a significant effect in reducing the time required to shut off the diesel tractors tested. Since the user population in this case could represent anyone able to help in an emergency, a larger survey employing untrained subjects is recommended.
Increasing Manufacturing Productivity using Human Factors Principles
Authors: Hasselquist Roger J.
Published: July 2017

Justifying the premium cost of applying human factors principles in the manufacturing workplace has been a major problem. The traditional, objective, cause-and-effect analyses are not applicable due to the lack of data. IBM Boulder developed an alternative – a subjective method of cost justification. Measurement of actual data has verified paybacks of the premium cost due to human factor considerations of less than one year. This paper discusses design highlights from having applied human factors principles to one manufacturing line.