bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Cost of Location Switching during Visual Alerting: Effects of Experience and Age
Authors: Crébolder Jacquelyn M. , Salmon Joshua P. , Klein Raymond M.
Published: January 2012

A study was conducted to investigate the switching cost of changing the location of a visual alert while participants performed a high intensity, multi-display task. Based on the proposition that the spatial window of attention can be extended to include relevant, though non-task-related information, it was hypothesized that response times to the alert would increase immediately following a change in location and then recover. Generally, results showed that this was not the case, but instead response time increased several minutes after the change in location and then recovered. Further investigation revealed that age and expertise (defined as experience with tasks involving multiple displays or video gaming), were strong moderators of the effect of slowed response after switching. Less experienced adults showed an immediate and significant cost that was not shown at all, or was shown later, by more experienced adults. Older adults showed a switching cost that was absent in younger adults. The results suggest that experience with a specific task, or more general video game experience, can guard against the cost associated with moving an alert to a new, relatively untrained location.
Effects of GHS Hazard Category, Signal Words, and Pictograms on an Individual's Assessment of Perceived Risk
Authors: Boelhouwer Eric J. , Davis Jerry
Published: January 2012

This preliminary investigation evaluates the impact of pictograms and signal words that would be present on chemical product labels following the modification of the Hazard Communication Standard by OSHA to incorporate the United Nation's Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). The GHS classification for a given hazard determines the hazard classification category (Category 1 or Category 2), if a pictogram and/or a signal word will be present on the label, and the hazard and precautionary statements that would appear on the label. Participants were able to refer to samples of chemical product labels to assist them in completing an on-line questionnaire. The hazard classification category and the presence of a signal word (“Danger” or “Warning”) were significant with regard to the level of perceived risk by individuals, but there was no significant effect for pictograms on the sample chemical product labels.
Self-Report Methods for Cambridge Neurological Test Battery (CANTAB) strategies
Authors: Militello Laura G. , Nemeth Kristie , Arbuckle Nicole B. , Quill 'Laurie L.
Published: January 2012

Self-report measures represent an important means to augment brain activation studies by providing important insight into participant strategies for completing cognitive tasks. Triangulating self-report data with brain scans and performance data promises to yield a more complete picture of brain activity (Jack & Roepstorff, 2002). The current exploratory study investigated the feasibility of using self-report measures following performance on two Cambridge Neurological Test Battery (CANTAB) inventories: The Delayed Match to Sample and the Cambridge Gambling Task. In this study, we obtained written and spoken descriptions of strategies used to complete the CANTAB tasks. We found that participants were comfortable reporting strategies. There were commonalities, as well as idiosyncratic strategies for completing the two inventories across eight participants. Next steps include linking reported strategies with performance to determine how descriptive self-reports correlate with actual behavior. In addition, approaches to developing alternative means of self-report for studies of brain function under stress are discussed.
The Current Bottleneck for Computer-Based Culture Training – Who Cares about Etiquette?
Authors: Wu Peggy , Miller Christopher
Published: January 2012

Computerized training systems may be the only viable solution to accommodate the quickly evolving learning needs, the short lead time, and the large number of students that must prepare for cross-cultural interactions. However, current systems place emphasis on language training, which is only part of the equation in effective communication. Knowledge about culturally dependent social norms directly impacts the interaction outcome. A dynamic, customizable, computationally tractable model for the code of conduct, or etiquette, can alert us of the specific communication protocols of groups of interest, and can prevent over-generalizations which can be detrimental to the end goal. We may not consciously care, or even be aware of etiquette, but it impacts our trust and affect for individuals, and ultimately shapes our subsequent actions. We have adapted a socio-linguistic model of human-human interaction for use in language and culture training. This computational model increases the social intelligence of virtual actors by allowing them to act and react to human students in ways that are more aligned with the humans they simulate. Capabilities for virtual agents to reason about and select actions not only enhances interaction fidelity, but can also result in time and cost savings in training scenario generation and maintenance.
Biosensor-Based Video Game Control for Physically Disabled Gamers
Authors: Breugelmans Jeffrey , Lin Yingzi , Mourant Ronald R. , Iversen Maura Daly
Published: January 2012

As it stands today, PC-based video games are commonly controlled through a combination of pointing device and keyboard input. Although this conventional type of interface has a long history of successful implementation, a small group of people remains excluded due to accessibility issues. This is unfortunate, because several studies have shown that virtual environment emersion can provide great benefits to people who suffer from temporary or permanent physical disabilities. This study is aimed at developing a novel interface system that will engage this group of users in video game play by addressing and eliminating the previously mentioned accessibility issues. Through the combined input from an eye-tracking device and a data glove, people suffering from physical limitations will be given the opportunity to experience and interact with virtual environments just like any other user. During interaction with this newly developed system, eye tracking signals will replace the mouse input for on-screen pointing, and a data-glove which will replace conventional keyboard input for in-game navigation and interaction. It is expected that gamers who suffer from previously limiting physical conditions will be able to interact effectively and pleasantly through the new gaming interface, thereby enabling them to overcome their disabilities and enjoy video games just like any other user.
On the Importance of Structure in Processing Multi-Element Visual Displays
Authors: Zohar Dov
Published: January 2012

Spatial structure of multi element displays has been consistently ignored by the almost exclusive use of random displays in experimental work. However, diaplays which represent aspects of the real world must not only be inherently structured, but they also imply a hierarchical, rather than serial, mode of processing by their human inspector, who uses this structure in pre-planning or constraining his detailed looking at the displays. An experiment, whose purpose was to test directly the temporal priority in processing display structure, is described. In this experiment, latencies and error rates for SAME-DIFFERENT judgements of display pairs were measured. It was found that displays differing by their structural orientation generated shortest response latencies and least errors and were further independent of exposure duration and of any additional differences between the displays due to the identity or orientation of the elements themselves. These data have been interpreted as strongly supporting the hypothesis regarding the temporal priority in processing structure and its high saliency, thus supporting the notion of a hierarchical processing of multi-element displays. A direct testing of the influence of display structure on the processing of its elements is now required.
The Role of Manned Extravehicular Activity in Reducing the Cost of Space Payloads
Authors: Alton Larry R. , Patrick James W.
Published: January 2012

In order to significantly increase the cost effectiveness of future payloads, new design approaches must be used. With an Extravehicular Activity (EVA) capability baselined for the Shuttle, new payload design techniques to exploit this capability are feasible. This paper reports on the examination of a representative all-pallet payload and some EVA-oriented designs. The cost implications of these designs are analyzed and projections are made for the potential impact on the NASA mission model.
“Measurement of Muscle Fatigue Using Electromyography”
Authors: Ayoub M.M. , Martz H.F. , Wu TX Ching H.
Published: January 2012

This paper summarizes research project which investigated the signal characteristics of muscle action potential when the muscle is fatigued and evaluated these characteristics as a measure of muscle fatigue. Eight subjects participated in the study under conditions of static and dynamic loading of the biceps muscle. The level of loading varied as a percent of maximum isometric muscle strength. The paper presents a criteria which defines muscle fatigue and discusses predictive models for muscle fatigue using this criteria for both static and dynamic loading.
Visual Search and Industrial Inspection
Authors: Megaw E.D. , Richardson J.
Published: January 2012

In a series of experiments which simulated the inspection of sheet material and simple items, target uncertainty was found in several cases to have a significant effect on search times. The distributions of search times and the numerous occurrences of target position effects confirmed that search strategies were not entirely random. By recording eye-movements, subjects were found to employ very different search strategies which highlighted the problem encountered when attempting to infer search strategies based exclusively on search times.
Human Factors in Grain Harvesting Equipment Design
Authors: Adams S. Keith , Boyd Morton M. , Buchele Wesley F.
Published: January 2012

Agriculture is the third most hazardous industry in the United States, following mining and construction. Many agricultural hazards are related to the nature of agricultural machines and the conditions under which they are operated. Other hazards are the results of limitations of the human operator in relation to operational demands. Less than 5 percent of all U.S. workers were engaged in agriculture in 1974, but these accounted for 18.7 percent of all work related injuries. Farm machinery was involved in the greatest number of these accidents.

Human factors engineering can be applied to agricultural safety through the analysis of man/machine/environment/task relationships. Defining topics for specific studies can be aided by analysis of agricultural accident surveys conducted by state and federal agencies. Some important differences exist between industrial and agricultural operations. These necessitate research techniques for agriculture differing from those used in industrial ergonomics.

Isolation, self-reliance, self-management, and variability in conditions, operations and work schedules prevail in agriculture. A more thorough understanding of man-machine relationships is needed in studying the dynamics of field operations, especially when several pieces of equipment are being controlled by one operator. Routine service and maintenance operations are often hazardous in the way they are typically performed. A number of research frontiers exist in developing ways to study man-machine relationships under these conditions.

In this paper, particular reference is made to the grain harvesting combine, a machine which in 1.4 million man-hours of exposure in 1974 produced an accident frequency rate of 112 per million hours. While the total percentage of agricultural worker time on combines was only 1.2, 6.4 percent of all farm machine accidents occurred while using them.

Problems in using the combine are partially the result of its size, complexity, limited maneuverability, and the extended working hours over which it is often used. Field maintenance is frequently required and presents a variety of serious hazards.

This paper includes discussion of ergonomic problems involved in the operation and maintenance of the combine. Concepts, proven useful in other operator center high-demand situations, appear to be useful in improving safety in this basic and important mechanized agricultural operation. Recent surveys and research suggest the development of improved analytic techniques as well as new applications of basic ergonomics in improving basic operator tasks. Some new developments and current problems in these areas are also presented.
Cognitive Processes in Visual Search
Authors: Bloomfield John R. , Modrick John A.
Published: January 2012

This approach to visual search introduces the concepts of organization, variable field of view and congratulation. It builds upon ideas developed in glimpse/detection lobe models of visual search. It suggests experiments that go beyond an assessment of variables that affect visual search performance, in the hope that these will eventually lead to a comprehensive cognitive theory of visual search.
Human Factors Applications in Airport Air Traffic Control
Authors: Stammers R.B.
Published: January 2012

Task demands in airport air traffic control are briefly examined in the context of new systems design. As well traditional human factors approaches, the optimal use of computer assistance is considered. Emphasis is placed on the role of the computer in providing both feedback and feedforward information for controllers.
Individual Differences in Pilot Performance
Authors: Murphy Miles R.
Published: January 2012

Selected literature on individual differences in pilot performance is reviewed in order to indicate a possible direction for research. Decision-making performance in contingency situations is seen as a potentially fruitful area for study of individual differences, although information on the relative roles of experience and cognitive abilities, styles, and strategies are needed in all research areas. The role of cognitive styles in pilot performance is essentially unexplored; however, the identification of individual pilot behavior differences that have been attributed to style differences and the results of automobile driver behavior research suggest considerable potential. Approaches to studying pilot decision-making processes are discussed, with emphasis given to the wrong-model approach in which accident and incident data, or “process tracing” provide experimental computational structures. Analysis of data from a simulator experiment on V/STOL zero-visibility landing performance suggests that the order of ranking of individual pilot's effectiveness varies with particular situations defined by combinations of tracking requirements (e.g., glide slope, localizer) and glide-slope segment, or speed requirements; the data are being further analyzed.
The Bicyclist's Exposure to Risk
Authors: Kobas G. V. , Drury C. G.
Published: January 2012

Bicycle accident statistics in the U.S.A. are usually obtained by counting accident numbers rather than measuring accident rates. As part of a larger study of bicycling safety, the bicyclist's exposure to risk was measured in terms of the number of times each of 851 functions were encountered. Data from a roadside census survey showed that bicyclists were forced into using major highways both by the design of the road system and by the bicyclist's preferences in route choice.
Diurnal and Seasonal Variations in Industrial Fatigue of Shift Workers
Authors: Ogiński Andrzej , Koźlakowska-Swigoń Lucyna , Pokorski Janusz
Published: January 2012

The interview was carried out with 1664 steelworkers in the aim of obtaining their opinion on subjective fatigue accompanying the work on morning, afternoon and night shifts. Warm and cold seasons of the year were treated separately. Continuous work observations and telemetric heart rate registration were conducted at some workplaces. Analysis of results exhibited a great differentiation of fatigue estimation on particular shifts. Influence of the seasonal factor was found to be very important both in the reported feeling of fatigue as in changes of the pulse rate. Conclusions concern the ergonomic approach to fatigue problems in shift work.
An On-Line Experimental Comparison of two Simulated Record Selection Languages
Authors: Bury Kevin F. , Boyle James M.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes a study which compared learning and problem-solving performance by secretaries using two different approaches to selecting records from the contents of a data file. One of the methods evaluated became the Record Selection facility for the IBM Displaywriter-Reportpack program. The two approaches compared were: the graphic approach, similar in structure to Query By Example; and, the linear approach, similar in structure to Structured Query Language. The evaluation was done early in the product development cycle using on-line simulations of the user interfaces for the two methods. The study demonstrates how simulation of the user interface can provide valuable information on product design very early in the product development cycle, before any product code is written.
Navigation through Hierarchical Menu Structures: Does it Help to have a Map?
Authors: Billingsley Patricia A.
Published: January 2012

The human/computer interface for many information retrieval systems is a hierarchical menu structure. Although this type of interface has several advantages for novice users, there is great potential for confusion and disorientation when menu structures are large and complex. This experiment demonstrated that subjects given the opportunity to study a map of the menu organization for a prototype database showed an overall improvement in information retrieval performance across time. Subjects who studied a linear index of correct menu choice sequences showed a general decline in performance as the time between studying the index and new retrieval tasks increased. A control group was slower and made more unnecessary choices than either the map or index group. The results suggest that access to a pictorial representation of a menu structure facilitates the development of a workable, relatively long-lasting mental model of that structure.
Computer-Aided Prescription of Communication Aids for the Non-Vocal Motor Handicapped
Authors: Rosen Michael J. , Goodenough-Trepagnier Cheryl
Published: January 2012

The problem of prescribing alternative communication systems for motor disabled non-vocal people is outlined. Attention is called to the diverse, multi-dimensional character of the human assessment problem. Techniques under development for finding the optimal match between descriptive profiles of patients and available devices are presented. Emphasis is given to the essential involvement of computers in the proposed methodologies.
Review of Human Factors Applications in Forest Harvesting
Authors: Smith Leo A. , Sirois Donald L.
Published: January 2012

A review of human factors applications in forest harvesting operations is presented. The discussion covers work physiology, environmental stress, equipment design, and safety. The importance of each topic to forest harvesting and representative human factors studies are described. Several suggestions for research that appears needed are also mentioned. It is concluded that human factors research has significantly contributed to the improvement of forest harvesting systems in the past and that future human factors applications should result in similar benefits.
Bent Hammer Handles
Authors: Krohn Rachel , Konz Stephan
Published: January 2012

Hammer handles were constructed with 10, 15, 21, 26 and 32 degrees of bend; the heads were identical. The 82 subjects pounded in two nails with each experimental hammer as well as a standard hammer (0° bend) and then ranked the hammers 1 to 6. The top three hammers then were used with one more nail and the hammers were ranked again. The preferred hammer had a 10° bend. Personal descriptors such as gender, age, and hammer use experience were not significant predictors of experimental hammer preference.
Fear of Flying: Impact on the U.S. Air Travel Industry
Authors: Dean Robert D. , Whitaker Kerry M.
Published: January 2012

A total of 5,860 adult (over 18) Americans were surveyed to measure the prevalence of fear of flying and its impact on airline revenues. It was found that 17 percent of the adult population describe themselves as being afraid of flying and that these people on the average make only one-third as many trips on commercial aircraft as those who have no fear. It was estimated that fear of flying costs the U.S. air travel industry 21 million one-way trips per year, equivalent to an annual revenue loss of $1.6-billion.
Mental Stress Quantification and Identification Decision Modeling
Authors: Mital Anil , Ulgen O. M.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes an approach to quantify mental stresses. The tool of fuzzy set theory is used to model the information regarding the job (task) and operator's mental and clinical status. Utilizing this concept, a model is developed to aid in decision making under those circumstances when an operator (responsible for performing critical tasks, such as monitoring ground support equipment) is under the influence of mental stress and his/her ability to continue on the job, without making fatal mistakes, is temporarily compromised. The objective of the decision model is to make the operator-task assignments based on the fuzzy operator and task information matrices. The decision alternatives are: (i) assign the operator to a non-critical job, (ii) give the operator time off for recovery, and (iii) let the operator continue on the job. The model takes into account the physiological, the psychological/behavioral, and the performance parameters and dynamically reviews the operator status using the data base unique to the individual.
A Model for Predicting Human Error in the Nuclear Industry
Authors: Moray Neville
Published: January 2012

Usually the Theory of Signal Detection is used to estimate summary statistics, d' and β from measured false alarm and hit rates. Here we estimate d' and β directly and thus can estimate p(F) and p(M). This is possible even for very rare errors where it is difficult or impossible to obtain direct measures of error probabilities. An example of the model is provided using data collected from nuclear power plant personnel. The predicted error rates depend on the quality of the displays, and from the examples given the error rates appear quite close to those predicted by Swain and Guttman (1980).
Effects of Alcohol Ingestion and Workload on Quality and Productivity for a Paced and Unpaced Assembly Task
Authors: Tergou Djamel E. , Price Dennis L.
Published: January 2012

Eight subjects participated in an assembly task in which they assembled a simulated circuit board. The task required exact placement of three similarly coded resistors, which were chosen from a set of five resistors (two of which were included as distractors), followed by adjusting a voltmeter to a specified value. Participants performed the assembly task under various blood alcohol concentrations (Placebo, 0.05%, 0.07%, and 0.0 9%) to assess the effects of alcohol and workload on quality (i.e. accuracy) and productivity (i.e. speed).

Three levels of paced task conditions (maximum speed for paced work, 75% and 50% of that maximum speed) and two levels of unpaced task conditions (speed and accuracy) were used for the assembly task conditions. In this study, six measures of performance were assessed: number of correctly completed units, number of orientation errors (i.e. one of the two pins of the resistor was misplaced and the other was in the correct hole), number of position errors (i.e. both pins missed the correct holes), meter adjustment errors, number improperly selected resistors, and number of incomplete boards (inaccurate boards).

A significant alcohol effect ( p < 0.0001) was evident for all the dependent variables in the two pacing paradigms.

Effects on the number of completed units and the number of inaccurate boards were significant ( p < 0.0001) for the paced task main effect. Under the unpaced condition, significance effects were obtained for the number of completed units ( p < 0.0001), the number of position errors ( p < 0.0001), the number of orientation errors ( p < 0.002), the number of adjustment errors ( p < 0.0001), the number of resistor errors ( p < 0.0001), and the number of inaccurate units ( p < 0.0001) for the task condition. Interactions of alcohol by paced task condition were significant for the number of inaccurate units ( p < 0.00161) and the number of completed units ( p < 0.0001). Unpaced condition revealed interaction effects for the number of completed units ( p < 0.0001), the number of position errors ( p < 0.0001), the number of resistor errors. The plots of these interactions did not reveal any obvious patterns.

A generalized alcohol dosage formula was developed using existing data from previous research.
Effects of Patterning on Flicker Frequency
Authors: Grimes Jack D.
Published: January 2012

Flicker was studied as perceived on a raster-scan CRT-based computer terminal in a typical use environment. The subject of the research was the relationship between the perception of flicker and the kind of spatial image presented. Both traditional images (filled white disks or squares) and images consisting of text and line drawings, similar in content to typical graphic computer terminal displays, were used in the study. This study measured the flicker perception of eight people.

The most significant finding from this study was that CFF thresholds for some images presented on CRT displays in a typical use setting, differed significantly from more traditional images used in most CFF studies reported in the literature. For the eight images tested, the two which exhibited significantly higher CFF thresholds were lines or text on a black background (patterns 3 and 4). Therefore, an important factor to be considered in the prediction of the flicker characteristics of a 60 Hertz, noninterlaced CRT display in conditions similar to those of this study is the choice of normal video (black background) or reverse video format. The white background video format is likely to flicker when the display luminance is above 20 ft-L while the black background video format threshold was about 80 ft-L for both patterns 3 and 4. Alternatively, this luminance difference corresponds to about a 10 Hertz shift in CFF.

In this study, the choice of video format alone, resulted in a luminance difference of 60 ft-L at CFF, or alternatively, resulted in a 10 Hertz shift in CFF at a particular luminance, for images normally found on actual CRT displays.
A Simulator-Based Study of Human Errors in Nuclear Power Plant Control Room Tasks
Authors: Beare A. N. , Dorris R. E.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to empirically establish error rates for control selection and operation during proceduralized tasks in nuclear power plant control rooms. Data were collected in high fidelity simulators from licensed operators and students in the final stages of training prior to licensing by a Performance Measurement System (PMS) which recorded control manipulations and plant parameters. The PMS data were compared to a list of Procedural Task Elements (PTE) derived from the procedures used in responding to the casualties. Any action called for by the PTE list and not taken was considered an error of omission. A subject matter expert reviewed the PMS record of actions for errors in selection or operation of controls. The observed error rates (OERs) for commission errors were in close agreement with the human error probabilities (HEPs) given in NUREG/CR-1278. The omission OER was an order of magnitude higher than that given in NUREG/CR-1278. However, this number may be an artifact of the way simulator training is conducted, as the operators did not have the time to recover omitted actions that would be available in a real plant.
Micro-Computer Applications in Sociotechnical Design
Authors: Goodman Donald L.
Published: January 2012

Sociotechnical approaches emphasize the unique aspects of each design attempt. This characteristic would appear to preclude the use of computers, to formulate solutions. The assertion that micro-computers can be used to augment the Sociotechnical design process is presented. Rather than affirming the computer's ability to complete complex algorithms, the computer is offered as a decision aid. The use of the computer as a decision support system acknowledges the importance of human discretion in creating and operating effective systems.
Quality Control of Windscreen Wipers Adapted to Driver's Visual Perception
Authors: Geiser Georg , Bister Gerd , Zorn Günter
Published: January 2012

The quality of windscreen wipers has to be measured objectively in the stages of development and manufacturing and after a certain period of operation as well. Starting from the insufficient and mostly subjective methods being available for windscreen wipers an objective measurement procedure was developed by which the driver's visual performance is taken into consideration. Under simulated night-time driving conditions the intensity of the stray light produced by the water left behind is measured as a function of time and of the local coordinates. In practice a prototype of a computer-controlled measurement unit showed a better evaluation of the transient part of the stray light (veil) compared with subjective judgement.
Customer Installability of Computer Systems
Authors: Comstock Elizabeth M.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes iterative, observational test procedures for developing customer installable computer systems. Testing should begin early in product development. All the components a customer is likely to receive should be tested as a system, including packaging, hardware, documentation, instructional materials, diagnostics, software, and phone assistance. A test team should be formed to include developers from all areas of the product. Videotaping and observing participants in pairs are also recommended. Results of this test process are summarized in the form of general design recommendations for product developers.
Individual Difference Effects in Human-Computer Interaction
Authors: Ambardar Anita Kak
Published: January 2012

One of the most common assumptions in design of Human-Computer interfaces is that there is an advantage to matching the psychological (cognitive) characteristics of the user to the interface features of the computer. However, except in the area of training and experience there have been few clear demonstrations that underlying cognitive characteristics of the user significantly interact with interface features.

This paper will describe an experiment in which the effects of individual differences in user's information (cognitive) style (specifically field independence/dependence and breadth of categorization) upon interaction with a complex computer program were examined. The program was a realistically difficult personal finance management system which required database searching and problem solving activities. The program was rich enough to allow alternative interaction methods.

The experiment comprised three parts. In the first phase, subjects learned how to use the computer system. In the second phase the subjects entered information into a personal finance database and in the third phase the subjects used their personal database to locate and correct discrepancies between a simulated bank statement and financial records. Prior to these experimental tasks subjects information-cognitive styles were evaluated using standardized tests of field independence/field dependence and breadth of categorization.

The results indicate that users with different underlying information styles, at similar levels of learning, have different preferred methods of interacting with the computer, and, that different database search methods are preferred by users of different cognitive styles. For example, field independent subjects preferred key-word multidimensional, non sequential database search methods while field dependent subjects used a method in which the database was searched in a linear, sequential mode.

This research is sponsored by US Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences
A Computerized, Procedural Aid for Flight Crews
Authors: Hammer John M.
Published: January 2012

A computer program has been written which contains a model of the procedures used in normal operation of a twin engine aircraft. This model, from examining the current and recent aircraft state, can determine when a procedure (or checklist) should be or is invoked and when each step (detectable by a change in the aircraft state) is completed. Thus. the program tracks the flight crew through changes in the aircraft state.

The computer program is intended to aid the flight crew by detecting errors. Omitting procedure steps (or entire procedures), changing the aircraft configuration improperly, and executing procedure steps out of order are all errors the program is able to detect.

The program will be evaluated on data from a previous experiment on a Link GAT-II simulator. One data set was used to test the program. The program was run unmodified on the second. The errors it found are compared with manual analysis that has been reported by Rouse and Rouse [1983].
Symbol Sign Understandability When Visibility is Poor
Authors: Lerner Neil D. , Collins Belinda L.
Published: January 2012

Subjects viewed slides of symbol signs under difficult viewing conditions, simulating a building emergency situation. The subject indicated whether a symbol meant “exit” or not. Substantial differences in understandability were found among 18 exit symbols. Features that contributed to correct identification of exits and confusion from other messages were identified.
Making Software User Friendly: An Assessment of Data Entry Performance
Authors: Kelster Richard S. , Gallaway Glen R.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes an investigation of the critical role of human factors in improving software usability and productivity. To Illustrate the types of improvements and their benefits, the human-computer interfaces of several software modules were subjected to human factors analyses, redesigned and recoded. A comparison using real operators showed that operators who used the modified programs completed transactions in 25 percent less time and with 25 percent fewer errors than operators who used the original programs.
The Application of Human Factors by Doe Nuclear Facilities
Authors: Van Cott Harold P.
Published: January 2012

In June 1982, The Office of Nuclear Safety of the Department of Energy initiated a contract with the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to determine the extent to which human factors technology is being applied to DOE nuclear facilities. This project, now in its third year, was initially conducted with the assistance of BioTechnology, Inc., and beginning in 1984 with Essex Corporation. The objective is to identify generic areas where human factors can be applied to improve the safety of nuclear facilities. To accomplish this objective, six tasks are being performed. Each task is intended to improve the awareness of DOE and DOE contractor personnel with human factors technology or to provide practical guidelines and bibliographic and other materials that can be used to design new and evaluate existing DOE nuclear facilities. The emphasis in all of these tasks is to reduce the occurrence of human error and to minimize the safety consequences of undetected or unre-covered human error.
Remote Control Vehicle Guidance Using Stereoscopic Displays
Authors: Robinson M.
Published: January 2012

A remote handling vehicle is presently in service with the Metropolitan Police Bomb Squad in London, England. Its prime role is in approaching and neutralising suspect explosive devices, including vehicles, whilst being operated from a safe distance, aided by a closed circuit television system.

As a result of using this equipment certain serious limitations have become apparent. When operating the vehicle in an unfamiliar environment (which is usually the case), the precise position of the robot in relation to its surroundings is very often difficult to determine. Also, on arriving at the target area the operator may still face problems in effectively bringing into operation the various attachments and weapons carried on board. This is because only a standard two-dimensional television image with its restricted amount of visual information is presented to the operator. These factors have led to a situation where there is now a reluctance on the part of Bomb Squad personnel to use this vehicle in the role for which it was intended.

In September, 1982, after discussion with all interested parties, it was proposed that a three-dimensional television system should be designed which could be mounted on the remote handling vehicle. The type chosen was the time-division technique which takes advantage of the interlace facility in the standard television display and employs electro-optic lenses in the viewing spectacles. The camera unit has controlled focus, zoom and convergence, but a fixed camera separation. It has been designed to make it relatively easy for the operator to adjust the parameters of the stereo-camera as the working visual range of the robot changes. The vehicle can be controlled up to a maximum of 800m from the operator and recording and play-back of the images on a standard video recorder is possible. This requirement was one of the main reasons for adopting the time-division technique.

Although the robot is not yet in service, the results of introducing the potential operators to this new kind of display have been most encouraging. It is anticipated that further information relating to this aspect of the work will be available in the near future.
Development of an Automated Anthropometric Data Measurement System (AADMS)
Authors: Moroney William F. , Hughes Robert E. , Spicuzza Ronald J.
Published: January 2012

Due to the limited space available in modern cockpits and crewstations, certain critical anthropometric features of an aviator must be measured properly. Unreasonable and erroneous anthropometric values are sometimes recorded because of measuring and operator errors. The purpose of the Automated Anthropometric Data Measurement System (AADMS - pronounced ADAMS) is to reliably and accurately measure anthropometric features in a timely and efficient manner and to eliminate the source of many of these errors. AADMS utilizes a microcomputer interfaced to a variety of position sensors and transducers to gather and internally verify data on 11 anthropometric parameters.
Automatic and Controlled Processing Approach to Interpreting Vigilance Performance
Authors: Fisk Arthur D.
Published: January 2012

The present paper discusses vigilance phenomena in terms of the automatic/controlled processing theory(Schneider & Shiffrin, 1977) of attention and human information processing. Fisk & Schneider (1981) interpreted vigilance decrements within the automatic/controlled process framework and discussed system design implications as well as training methods for vigilance environments. New results, concerning the effects of various stressors on automatic and controlled processes, are presented to highlight why, when theorizing about vigilance, it is more important to think about mode of processing than task complexity, stage of processing, etc.
Stress and Sonar Operations: Concerns and Research Methodology
Authors: Smith Malcolm J , Mackie Robert R , Wylie C Dennis
Published: January 2012

This paper is the first in a series of three concerned with the effects of a wide range of stress factors on human Performance in current naval sonar operations. It is argued, from the viewpoint of a human factors consultant, that most research has had very little impact in helping to solve problems of sustained operations at sea. Semantic difficulties in applied research using trained sonar operators are discussed, and a translation of sonar tasks and behavioural elements is described. As an introduction to the following contributions, a combined survey methodology and literature review are outlined.
Tractor Ergonomic Requirements Based on North American and European Operator Interviews
Authors: Casey Steven M.
Published: January 2012

Personal interviews with 80 European and North American farmers were conducted to identify ergonomic design weaknesses and desirable features for with-cab and less-cab agricultural tractors. Interviews were conducted in both markets in view of differences in user requirements based on crops, soil conditions, and farming practices. Operators were required to comment on various aspects of tractor design impacting ease of operation, comfort, and productivity. Topics of discussion included seating, workspace layout, control arrangement and operation, displays, forward and rearward visibility, lighting, entrance and egress, and basic maintenance. A content analysis of over 350 operator comments was performed to identify subjects of major concern to operators.
Age-Related Changes in Distance Judgments
Authors: Hill Gregory W. , Mershon Donald H.
Published: January 2012

Research was conducted to evaluate age-related changes in the strength of the Equidistance Tendency originally described by W.C. Gogel. This factor refers to the tendency on the part of a human observer to perceive two (or more) objects as if they were located at the same distance. A configuration of binocular and monocular objects was produced in a visually reduced, laboratory setting, so that individual measures of the strength of this effect could be obtained for observers who differed in age. Three groups were used: 18–22 years, 35–45 years, and over-60 years old. The Equidistance Tendency increased significantly for the older observers, suggesting that such individuals have a greater likelihood of underestimating the relative depth separation of visual targets. Implications of this work for transportation safety were discussed.
Hearing Protection Device Comfort and User Preference: An Investigation and Evaluation Methodology
Authors: Epps Brian W. , Casali John G.
Published: January 2012

This study was conducted to evaluate the perceived discomfort and user preferences associated with the wearing of earplugs. Fifty subjects were tested under five different types of earplugs. Subject responses to a series of 7-interval, bi-polar scales and rankings were obtained. The bipolar scales were reduced to a single-number rating, or Comfort Index (CI). Nonparametric analysis of the CI indicated that pre-formed, plastic earplugs were perceived as causing more discomfort than user-molded earplugs. Nonparametric analyses of the rank data also indicated differences among earplug designs for discomfort, ease of earplug insertion, and preferences.
Program analysis by levels of description
Authors: Rist Robert S. , Tien Emily
Published: January 2012

A plan/goal analysis of computer programs is developed and partially tested. This approach combines the ideas of plan analysis and top-down design and provides a principled description of a computer program at increasing levels of specificity. Three types of description were used in a simple debugging task: plan, goal and complete (plan + goal). Subjects were given a buggy program and a description of that program and the time taken to correct the bug was recorded. Contrary to predictions, the plan description was the most useful program documentation for both novice and advanced programmers. It is theorized that while high-level descriptions allow a program's goals to be understood, plans are precisely the information required to debug the implementation of these goals. This plan approach integrates the use of PDL as both a program and a plan description language.
Automated Speech Recognition as a Function of Formal Speech Training and Passage of Time between Template Training and Testing
Authors: Gardner Daryle Jean , DeFruiter David , Keith Mark , Kline Mike , Dresel Michael , Knapp Robert
Published: January 2012

The purpose of the present study was to assess the longevity of templates trained using a speaker-dependent voice recognition system, and to determine whether recognition varies with the degree of formal speech training. Results indicate that vocabulary recognition is fairly stable over a two-month period, and that subjects with formal voice training do not appreciably differ in performance from novice speakers. However, experience with the voice recognition system did result in improved recognition performance for both trained and novice speakers.
Application of Guidelines for Designing User Interface Software
Authors: Mosier Jane N. , Smith Sidney L.
Published: January 2012

A survey was conducted of people who had received a report on guidelines for designing user interface software. Analysis of questionnaire responses indicates that design guidelines are generally considered useful, but that there are significant problems in the practical application of guidelines. For effective application, generally stated guidelines must be translated into system-specific design rules.
Job Design/Redesign Procedure for Manual Materials Handling Tasks
Authors: Jiang Bernard C. , Mital Anil
Published: January 2012

Based on the information available in the literature, a set of MMH capacity models have been developed to accommodate: (1) various types of tasks, such as lifting, lowering, carrying, pushing, and pulling, and (2) important MMH task parameters, such as frequency of handling, height/distance of handling, box sizes, and presence/absence of handles. The models can also be adjusted for work (shift) duration, body twist, and different population percentiles. Following the development of these models, a comprehensive job design/redesign procedure was developed.
The Effect of Alcohol on Four Behavioral Processes: Perception, Mediation, Communication, and Motor Activity
Authors: Hahn Heidi Ann , Price Dennis L.
Published: January 2012

Sixteen male and 16 female subjects engaged in a maze-based task under four levels of blood alcohol concentration (BAC), 0.00, 0.05, 0.07, and 0.09%. The maze was designed to tap perceptual, mediational, communication, and motor processes each at four levels of difficulty. Two instruction conditions, speed versus accuracy, were used. Dependent measures stressing both speed and accuracy were developed for each behavioral component. Results indicated that BAC significantly affected the time required to identify a target in the maze as well as the time required to plan a path through the maze. Subjects also produced more words in describing the path under alcohol conditions while the time to verbalize the path was unaffected by alcohol. Accuracy measures which were affected by BAC included the distance travelled in false paths (a mediational variable), the number of incorrect verbalizations produced, the number of steering reversals and the distance traversed in the reversals, and the frequency of touching the maze walls.