bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Factors for Dynamic Function Allocation from the Perspective of Human Information Processing
Authors: Wang Wangzhi , She Manrong , Chen Shanguang , Li Zhizhong
Published: June 2024

To ensure safe and efficient collaboration between humans and automated systems, it's essential to understand how to allocate functions dynamically. The first step involves identifying the factors that may trigger such dynamic function allocation. When factors influencing information processing emerge and reach a certain level of significance, individuals often experience changes in their states and performance. It is at this juncture that dynamic human-machine function allocation becomes necessary. Therefore, identifying these factors from the perspective of human information processing can help determine whether a task element will be affected by a specific factor and if dynamic function allocation should be initiated. By conducting an extensive literature review encompassing various related studies, this research identified factors that may impact different stages of human information processing. Subsequently, these factors were identified for dynamic function allocation in human-machine collaboration. This study is expected to provide a theoretical foundation for achieving dynamic function allocation in human-machine teaming.
Consumer acceptance of grass ingredients in human diets
Authors: Mumbi Anne , Pittson Helen , Vriesekoop Frank , Kurhan Sebnem
Published: June 2024

Grass has the potential to play a pivotal role in shaping sustainable diets as novel food technologies are exploring its use in human diets. By embracing unconventional yet nutritious sources like grass, we can mitigate the environmental impact of traditional agriculture while promoting healthy diets and supplying adequate nutrition. This research aims to explore the acceptance of grass in human diets through a quantitative analysis of consumer acceptance. 485 respondents were sampled for the study. The results suggest a positive response to grass-derived ingredients with a 3.58 mean score for their acceptance in human diets. Attitude, safety and preparedness, willingness, and readiness to try foods with grass-derived ingredients were significant factors influencing the acceptance of grass-derived ingredients in human diets. The positive results encourage the exploration of novel food sources to tackle emerging environmental issues and further suggest improving individual attitudes through strategic product design and marketing to encourage open-mindedness which drives consumer acceptance and willingness to include grass-derived ingredients in human diets.
The Influence of Set Size in a Dynamic Decision-Making Task
Authors: Patton Colleen , Wickens Christopher , Clegg Benjamin , Smith Cap
Published: June 2024

In visual search, increasing the number of elements makes target identification more difficult. Identifying a target becomes even more complex in real world scenarios where operators might need to accumulate evidence across movement patterns – a form of dynamic decision making. In a simple simulation, participants moved their ownship around a water space, while observing movements of three, six, or nine vessels around them, one of which exhibited a hostile behavior. Results indicated that accuracy above chance of hostile ship detection did not differ across set sizes, however participants took more steps as the number of ships increased. Participants generally aggregated far less than the optimal amount of evidence, reflected in the overall average accuracy of 53%. This hints at overwhelming challenges to working memory in these types of dynamic decision-making situations. Implications for real-world scenarios and possible automated aids are discussed.
Knowledge Management in Sport; Case MyE.Way Knowledge Management System
Authors: Kontio Elina , Katajapuu Niina , Salmi Jussi , Metsavuori Juho , Pohjola Mikko
Published: June 2024

Tracking performance and development of athletes and teams has been common in sports coaching for long. In the past, training log, stopwatch and measurement tape were easy and commonly available tools, whereas more complicated measurements such as heart rate, oxygen consumption, or power output used to require special equipment and protocols typically applied only in laboratory settings by trained experts. During recent decades, the development of technology has made the collection of data commonplace in everyday sporting contexts. Accordingly, data-driven approach to performance development has become possible. Performance tracking protocols of football teams can include daily data collection of training types and amounts, physical performance, skills and cognitive performance test results, game analysis data, psychosocial characteristics and match results and many other variables. However, mere collection of data does not guarantee the effective use of data. Instead, the amount of data can even be a burden for sports coaches and experts and make it difficult to recognize what is essential and what is not. Data from different sources must be integrated to enable holistic analysis. Furthermore, data must be turned into usable information. It needs to be provided for use in decision making about concrete actions aiming for desired outcomes. To make the data usable in changing decision-making contexts by different users, sophisticated data-analysis methods are needed. Machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) can help in identification of essential variables, personalization, forecasting future development, and generating action recommendations. At best, knowledge management influences the knowledge and actions of human actors by means of technology. However, it is necessary to also develop the processes wherein the knowledge is applied. MyE.Way is a knowledge management system implementing the E.Way framework for holistic performance development. It is developed for and applied in football, futsal and floorball. Together MyE.Way and E.Way constitute a pragmatic knowledge service providing decision support, but also creating a platform for education of the actors engaging in the player development processes.
Using Multi-Modal Physiological Markers and Latent States to Understand Team Performance and Collaboration
Authors: Rabin Ashley , Neubauer Catherine , Gordon Stephen , King Kevin
Published: June 2024

Squads of the future battlefield will include a mixture of technically savvy humans and artificially intelligent teammates. Contextually aware AI teammates will be essential for war fighter overmatch. To understand how multimodal physiology can impact mixed team performance, we looked at how physiological team properties emerge in a naturalistic and collaborative environment. Here, we examined internal states and team outcomes based on these states within the context of a complex bomb defusal task in a simulated and naturalistic environment. This overarching research integrates eye gaze behavior, neural activity, speech, heart rate variability, and facial expressions to unravel the intricate relationship between individual and team performance. Here we focus on the facial expression data. Using a novel testbed, we aimed to uncover how these physiological processes evolve and interact with human interactions to influence team dynamics and task performance. Compared to traditional highly controlled lab tasks, this novel testbed enables peripheral measurement of multimodal physiology during naturalistic team formation and collaboration. We report differences between an individual task and teaming task in global facial expressivity results and correlations between facial expression synchrony scores and team task performance.
Sociotechnical Aspects of Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems
Authors: Chai Rachel , Lohar Bhushan , Venkiteshwaran Kaushik , Walker Sean , White Kevin
Published: June 2024

Decentralized wastewater treatment systems are utilized in areas where sewer systems are not feasible and septic service is unaffordable. Approximately 25% of the US population uses decentralized wastewater systems for their wastewater treatment. The Black Belt, which extends from the East Coast of the US from Virginia through the Carolinas, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi is an area that has a large population that depends on decentralized wastewater systems. In the State of Alabama, the Black Belt area is a 17-county region where, depending on the county, up to 85% of the residents rely on decentralized wastewater treatment. These decentralized systems are largely unaffordable for the residents in this region due to a median household income of $29K, which is half of the national average. One proposed system is a low-cost lab-scale hybrid evapotranspiration/lateral flow sand filter. The hybrid sand filter system is designed to treat 55 gallon per day (GPD) of septic tank effluent, sized at 13 ft x 12 ft x 3 ft. The influent is treated physically, chemically, and biologically within the sand layers of the system. Hydraulically, influent flows laterally and rises via capillary action within the sand layers. The system has a correlation to ambient temperature and humidity. Lower discharge rates are directly proportional to higher temperature and humidity. The following data represents the percent reduction for our wastewater treatment system: Ammonia (64%), Phosphorus (92%), COD (76%), and BOD (96%). The hydraulic and treatment data for the hybrid sand filter system are promising. In this analysis, the authors identify sociotechnical factors that can affect the performance and useful life of the system in a multiple decision matrix. Sociotechnical factors, such as persons per residence, electricity usage, and distance of the decentralized system from the residence, are analyzed to build a simple agent-based model (ABM) which will determine the impacts on the overall performance of the system.
Navigating the Future Control Room: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Svensson Signe , Osvalder Anna-lisa , Borell Jonas
Published: June 2024

The energy system is undergoing significant changes and is expected to continue to evolve. Energy demand is anticipated to increase, as is renewable energy capacity, and technical solutions are advancing. For electrical power, traditionally centralized production is increasingly complemented by distributed production, transforming fundamental system functionality. These developing factors will affect both the power generation and the electric power control systems, which are supervised and run by human operators with support from various technical systems. The purpose of this paper is to present trends in the nuclear power and electric power control room systems as well as possible effects on the human technology organization (HTO) system. Semi-structured interviews were performed with 16 people having various types of expertise linked to process control. The results indicated that in the future there are many possible new technologies and support systems that would affect nuclear power plant - and transmission grid operators in their daily work and the organizations they belong to. With a digitalized control room with higher level of automation, remote operations were pointed out as a path forward. However, cyber-security issues were raised as a challenge. Furthermore, small modular reactors were mentioned to be safer and more efficient but raised many questions regarding organizational changes and operator activity levels. An increasing amount of weather dependent power was predicted to make balancing tasks more complex for transmission grid operators, also affecting the nuclear power plant organizations. To conclude, this study underscores the need for a comprehensive HTO perspective to address evolving roles, safety concerns, and protocols for operator intervention during system failures, necessitating further research in these areas.
Staffing in small modular reactors - first impressions
Authors: Arigi Awwal , Eitrheim Maren
Published: June 2024

Small modular reactor (SMR) development around the world has seen significant progress in recent years. Some of the unique characteristics that may impact control room operations include integral core design, passive safety systems, low fission products in case of release, flexible power outputs, and siting flexibility. The policy for staffing in SMRs is still an open question as there is a wide variety of implementation possibilities due to the varied designs and application contexts. Some vendors plan single unit deployment, while others suggest operation of multiple units from one control room. However, the policy on staffing will potentially be interdependent on several other factors such as the concept of operation, communication style, integrated system validation including control room design, and level of automation. This study investigated two staffing arrangements in a six-unit SMR simulator with licensed nuclear power plant operators. We discuss variations in how; participants organize themselves and assign responsibility in the absence of a defined concept of operation, their monitoring strategies, how they respond to failures and prioritize task work, and how they respond to single unit and multiple unit failures. We also discuss the workload participants experienced during the scenarios implemented. The limitations of our studies and implications for future research and industry application are presented.
From Concept to Context: Evaluating Medical Device Usability Where It Matters Most
Authors: Morales Casas Adrian , López Vicente Amparo , Solano-garcía Lorenzo , Laparra Jose
Published: June 2024

The usability validation process of medical devices outside controlled environments such as test facilities, laboratories, or by expert groups is vital to scrutinising the viability of the developed solution. This work outlines a case study in which the Spanish emergency service 061-Andalucia took part in the validation process of a non-contact vital sign measuring device through image processing, describing the methodology, participant sample, data analysis and conclusions. The measured vital signs were heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, temperature, and blood pressure contactless at 2 meters (6.5 ft). In the study, three emergency service teams from three different operation bases in Malaga (Spain) underwent the validation process under semi-real conditions. Each team was provided with one measurement device used during the work shift on patients who were not in a critical stage, conscious and willing to participate in the study after being informed and signing a consent form. The primary goals of the validation were to analyse the ease of the process, reliability, and robustness of the measurements against the standard measurement equipment of the emergency service in different scenarios, as well as detect errors and limitations under semi-real conditions of use. Besides providing evidence of a potential improvement in the service through this new camera system, the satisfaction of the users/ patient and reducing equipment weight. Under these harsh conditions, the measurement device with a technical readiness level 7 reached reliability and robustness between 70% and 100%, depending on the measured vital signs and a high acceptance among the professionals of 66,66%.
Environmental Impact of Video Streaming from Users’ Perspectives
Authors: Thi Thien Nhi Dam , Chuloy Margarita , Glomann Leonhard
Published: June 2024

While the Internet has undeniably made a significant impact on human life, it comes with a drawback: its extensive energy consumption, leading to adverse consequences for the environment. The proliferation of video streaming services, which constitute the largest portion of Internet traffic, amplifies the environmental burden of the Internet. Recognising the critical role of users’ video consumption behaviour to improve the situation, we employed a qualitative approach to explore users’ perspectives on pollution caused by video streaming. Interviews were conducted with video streaming app users aged from 18 to 26 years old, originating from Germany, France, and the UK. Our aim was to uncover the relationship between users' awareness levels and their willingness to change behaviour regarding video content consumption. The research findings provide comprehensive insights into users’ perceptions of video streaming impacts, and suggest potential avenues for future design and research aiming at promoting pro-environmental behaviour in video content consumption.
Framework for agile organization and work design for industry 4.0
Authors: Gelec Erdem , Sah Dogru Melih
Published: June 2024

For manufacturing companies in a dynamic environment their capabilities to achieve changeability and agility with minimum effort can lead to competitive advantages. A changeable production system is able to meet requirements in different dimensions. Enabler known from literature are universality, mobility, scalability, modularity and compatibility. The focus on digitalization and industry 4.0 solutions can lead to potential benefits. In most cases the technology focused way is not sufficient to design changeability as the activation thereof is embedded in the organization, the individual employees, and the corporate culture. Within this paper, the framework for the agile organization and work design will be presented. It displays the first step and result of the German research project “agileASSEMBLY” which addresses the work stages of assembly, commissioning and service. Subsequently, a pilot implementation, operation, and evaluation of the achievements are planned to prove the success expectations of the concept.
Vigilant Air Traffic Control: Gaze-based Recognition of Detection Failures to Visual Warnings
Authors: Li Zhimin , Li Fan
Published: June 2024

Air traffic controllers sometimes fail to detect visual warnings due to limited attention resources. This challenge would even be exacerbated by the increasing complexity of visual data in future digital tower integrations. Detection failures (DF) manifest in three primary types: ordinary blindness (OB), look but fail to see (LBFTS) error, and misinterpretation (MI), each resulting from disruptions in the detection process stages and necessitating specific countermeasures. This study employs machine learning and eye-tracking in a simulated air traffic control (ATC) environment to identify and differentiate types of DF. Eye movements of 26 participants were tracked across 108 OB, 109 LBFTS, and 95 MI instances to ATC warnings. Seven machine learning models, including three basic and four advanced tree-based models, were assessed for DF recognition. Results found that the gradient boosting decision tree exhibited superior performance with 74% accuracy in four-detection-type recognition, particularly in recognizing OB and LBFTS. Additionally, correct detection and MI are more challenging but still effectively recognized, with correct detection better identified by k-Nearest Neighbour, and MI by light gradient boosting machine. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of real-time gaze-based DF recognition in ATC and offer valuable insights for ATC management in enhancing visual warning detection and aviation safety.
Reduction and Modification for Aero Engine Rotor Model Considering Contact Stiffness
Authors: Gao Chengming , Zhang Dahai
Published: June 2024

Aiming at the difficulty of both accuracy and computational efficiency in aero engine rotor model, a method of dimensionality reduction and modification of aero engine rotor model considering contact stiffness is proposed. First, a three-dimensional finite element model of the aero-engine rotor is established, using thin-layer elements to represent the end-tooth contact interface between rotor discs. Second, based on the Craig-Bampton fixed-interface modal synthesis method, a reduced model of the rotor is obtained, retaining the main nodes at the bearing and the end-tooth contact interface positions. Finally, the contact stiffness in the reduced rotor model is modified based on the sensitivity method and rotor modal testing. The maximum frequency error of the first three orders of bending mode frequencies calculated by the modified model is reduced from 12.84% to 0.11%, and the calculated modal shapes are consistent with the experimental results. Moreover, the average time of five iterations of correction calculation is 0.8 seconds on the platform of Matlab software, which verifies the accuracy and efficiency of the method. The calculation results show that the dimensionality reduction and modification method considering contact stiffness can not only satisfy the correction accuracy, but also significantly improve the model correction efficiency of aero engine rotor.
Crew Resource Management Evaluation for Pilots: A Modern Perspective
Authors: Pushparaj Kiranraj , Wang Hui , Esser David , Holder Barbara
Published: June 2024

Crew Resource Management (CRM) has been an integral part of aviation for decades. However, evaluation of CRM for pilots has always been a challenge. As such, an exploration of the literature was commenced to approach CRM evaluation from a modern perspective. Some teams promoted the integration of technology into the assessment process to better understand the behavioral markers currently being utilized. Others encouraged a larger revamp, by shifting towards a more holistic assessment based on advances in cognitive science. Both these approaches were discussed, and it is likely that a blend of both will be required to address this research problem. However, to ensure robustness and long-term sustainability of CRM evaluation, more research must be conducted from a cognitive science perspective, to inform which assessment frameworks are more effective and reliable.
Effects of interactive modality on the spatiotemporal characteristics of driver eye movement
Authors: Jie Lin , Liu Xing , Zhang Tingru , Chan Alan
Published: June 2024

In-vehicle information system (IVIS), as crucial components in the vehicles, provide drivers with convenient functionalities but also pose potential safety hazards. Operating these systems requires visual attention, potentially increasing the risk of accidents. While previous researches focused on static eye metrics like fixation and saccade, limited attention has been given to spatiotemporal eye movement characteristics crucial for information acquisition while driving. This study investigated the impacts of three modalities (voice-based, touchscreen-based, and gesture-based) on spatiotemporal characteristics of driver eye movement. Thirty-six participants were recruited to a simulated driving experiment, with one group acting as baseline without non-driving related tasks (NDRTs), while others performed NDRTs using one of different interactive modalities. Scanpaths, fixation entropy, and visual transition probability matrices were analyzed to understand spatiotemporal characteristics. A new comparison method based on ScanMatch algorithm was proposed to measure the similarity of scanpaths. The K-means clustering was used to identify areas of interest (AOIs), while Shannon’s equation was applied to calculate fixation entropy. Visual transition probability matrices normalized transition counts, revealing areas with the most transitions. Results showed the voice group's eye movements closely resembled the baseline, with higher entropy in driving-related AOIs. In contrast, the touchscreen group had lower entropy and a higher likelihood of distraction. Thus, voice-based interaction had the least distracting effect, resembling baseline eye movement patterns. These findings offer insights for designing safer IVIS interactions to reduce traffic accidents.
Analysis of Design for Sustainable Behavior in Driving: Theory, Methods, and Future Trends
Authors: Yang Jiaren , Zhao Danhua
Published: June 2024

Design for sustainable behavior, as an approach that comprehensively considers social, environmental, and economic factors, has garnered significant attention in the realm of contemporary sustainable development. When applied to automotive driving, incorporating the principles of sustainable behavior design becomes crucial in guiding users toward more eco-friendly driving habits and mitigating the additional energy consumption resulting from poor driving behaviors. This article begins by elucidating the theoretical foundation of design for sustainable behavior, focusing on major theoretical models in the field of behavioral science, specifically the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and the Comprehensive Action Determination Model (CADM).Moving forward, the article explores methods of design for sustainable behavior applicable during the driving phase. These methods encompass a variety of approaches, such as energy information feedback, user choices, feedback mechanisms, incentives, guidance, and interventions. Leveraging digital participation platforms, decision support systems, feedback incentive tools, among others, these methods aim to guide users and driving communities toward more sustainable behaviors on different levels. Emphasizing the analysis of the three crucial dimensions of design for sustainable behavior, the article introduces a behavioral dimension reference model.In conclusion, the article summarizes methods of design for sustainable behavior applied in the driving context and provides insights into future developments. While design for sustainable behavior has seen some success in automotive driving applications, broader dissemination and in-depth research are still required. Future research directions may include more personalized behavior design methods, the application of emerging technologies in this field, and the exploration of sustainable behavior patterns in diverse cultural contexts. By continually advancing theoretical research and expanding practical applications, design for sustainable behavior is poised to become an effective tool for enhancing automotive energy efficiency and contributing to societal sustainable development.
Seat comfort evaluation method using X-ray : A case study in compact sedan
Authors: Shin Jueun , Choi Woojin , Kim Sunwoong
Published: June 2024

The aim of this research is to gather driver data to determine the comfort of a car seat by analyzing the correlation between various X-ray measurement variables and the satisfaction, comfort, and support of the seat, back, and cushion. The X-ray measurement variables include the seat angle at optimal posture, C7-SVA, Backset, the distance between Hip Joint and Head Centerline, height between Hip Joint and Head Centerline, cervical lordosis angle, thoracic kyphosis angle, and lumbar lordosis angle. The study was conducted on 17 participants using the Compact Sedan car. The results of the experiment showed that overall seat satisfaction was negatively correlated with the lumbar lordosis angle (r= -0.511, p< 0.05). The satisfaction of headrest support showed a negative correlation with the seat angle at the optimal posture (r=-0.597, p< 0.05). The comfort of the headrest support was negatively correlated with the distance between the hip joint and the head centerline (r=-0.609, p<0.01), the seat angle (r=-0.511, p< 0.05), and the lumbar lordosis angle (r=-0.502, p< 0.05). Headrest support satisfaction was negatively correlated with the distance between the Hip Joint and the head centerline (r=-0.486, p<0.05). In conclusion, the X-ray data analysis confirmed musculoskeletal variables that showed a significant correlation with seat comfort. However, this study is limited to Compact Sedan seats only, and it is expected that more meaningful data can be obtained if additional research is conducted on various class seats such as hatchbacks and SUVs in the future. Additionally, the study can include L3 of the spine, L4 of the spine, Thorax Angle, and Abdomen Angle variables in the future.
Vibration sensitivity measurement of back and buttocks for effective seat vibration warning
Authors: Hirao Akinari , Yoshida Akari
Published: June 2024

The study focuses on tactile sense as an additional modality for presenting information to drivers, alongside the visual displays and auditory sounds commonly used for driver assistance functions.Although many haptic warnings with built-in vibrators in the steering wheel and seats have been studied, there are few practical applications for seats, despite the steering wheel already being implemented. Vibration-based information presentation is an effective means of presenting information as it can present information solely to the driver without causing anxiety to passengers through display or sound warnings.Furthermore, as autonomous driving functions become more widespread, drivers can focus on other activities while in a hands-off state during Level 3 or higher levels. The presentation of information through tactile sense is considered highly effective when using a seat that maintains constant contact with a large area of the occupant during other activities.Many vibration warnings use eccentric motors to create vibrations, which limits the range of vibration characteristics that can be achieved. Additionally, there is insufficient knowledge regarding the optimal vibration characteristics and areas for stimulus. This study measured the vibration sensitivity of the back and buttocks in contact with the seat and investigated the vibration characteristics required for efficient warnings.Vibro-transducers were attached to the clothed human back surface of the body, and the minimum vibration output required to elicit a response was recorded for each frequency (30 to 150 Hz, in 10 Hz increments) at various sites on the back and buttocks. The resulting data was used to create a vibration sensitivity map of the back side of the body.First, in a preliminary experiment, 39 points on the back of the body from the 7th cervical vertebra to the back of the knee were comprehensively measured at 80 mm intervals for seven participants (4 males and 3 females), and the measurement points were narrowed down by examining regional differences, left-right differences, and individual differences. Finally, 22 measurement points were selected based on the skeleton and vibration sensitivity was measured. The buttocks, which have different pelvic positions inside the body, were measured in the supine and sitting positions.In the experiment, measurements were taken on a total of 14 subjects, 7 male and 7 female adults, and a vibration sensitivity map of the backside of the body was created.Based on the sensitivity maps, the effectiveness of the warning stimulus will be tested using a seat vibration warning with driving simulator.
Challenges in the Implementation of Modern Methods of Construction, Including Construction 3D Printing, in South Africa: A Comprehensive Examination of Products Performance
Authors: Mahachi Jeffrey
Published: June 2024

South Africa's national building regulations currently accommodate conventional building products compliant with specified standards in South African National Standards. Additionally, provisions are made for Innovative Building Technologies (IBT), including Modern Methods of Construction and Construction 3D Printing, which must adhere to Agrèment South Africa's performance requirements. These IBTs undergo rigorous certification processes encompassing structural strength, stability, fire resistance, and thermal performance assessments. While various IBTs have received certification and found application in housing, schools, and clinics, a gap persists in translating research and knowledge into widespread implementation. This paper focuses on establishing a knowledge base for IBT building walling products, particularly those related to Modern Methods of Construction and Construction 3D Printing, certified by Agrèment SA. The research methodology involves data collation and analysis from Agrèment SA, categorizing products based on building occupancy and performance through a stratification process. Validation of certificate data was conducted through interactions with system owners. The study also reviews challenges hindering the implementation of some certified products, emphasizing the specific context of Modern Methods of Construction and Construction 3D Printing. The paper concludes with a recommendation for a conceptual framework integrating research, knowledge dissemination, innovation, government involvement, and market diffusion to address these challenges and facilitate effective implementation.
VibroTactile Feedback application for correcting and guiding posterior knee flexion during the loading phase of a baseball swing.
Authors: Langezaal Harold , De Bruyne Guido , Verwulgen Stijn
Published: June 2024

This research presents the function and validation of an innovative low-cost Vibrotactile feedback system that can be used to control rear knee flexion during the loading phase of a baseball swing. This new VTF system employs only two NOTCH® inertia sensors and two LRA actuators. It can be controlled by a coach or fellow player, making feedback individually applicable. The system is easy to use and compatible with the current NOTCH® Pioneer application. The system is tested on 12 participants who had an average of 14 years of baseball experience. As a control group, auditory feedback was used, the contemporary form of feedback to teach baseball players the correct body postures. During the tests, participants were guided to a predetermined posture using both feedback methods. This posture consisted of a 30° flexion of the posterior knee during the loading phase of a baseball swing. A margin of error of 5° was established, meaning that a flexion between 28° and 32° was considered correct. No further feedback was given once the correct position was adopted. A push metaphor was used to respond to the vibrotactile stimuli.During tis research, both feedback systems successfully guided the participant to the correct position in all 120 cases. Results showed that the new VTF system was significantly more efficient than auditory feedback in guiding participants correctly (p=0.01). On average, the VTF system was 16.99% or 0.89 seconds faster in guiding the posterior knee flexion than the auditory feedback. For 10 out of 12 participants, the VTF system was more efficient than auditory feedback in guiding the participant to the correct loading position. In particular, for eight participants, the VTF system was more than 20% faster. At maximum efficiency, the VTF system was 36% more efficient than the current auditory feedback. The functioning of this system opens up many new application possibilities in both baseball and other sports, as well as posture improvement and guidance in general.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transportation Safety Management Systems: The Aviation Safety II Case study
Authors: Ziakkas Dimitrios , Pechlivanis Konstantinos
Published: June 2024

The aviation industry, renowned for its stringent safety standards, is increasingly embracing the Safety II approach, which focuses on understanding why operations succeed under varying conditions. This paper explores the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in augmenting the Safety II approach in aviation. Traditional safety models, predominantly reactive, emphasize preventing what goes wrong (Safety I). In contrast, Safety II is proactive, aiming to enhance what goes right, thereby increasing overall system resilience.This research begins by delineating the core principles of Safety II and its relevance to aviation safety. It underscores the limitations of human cognitive capabilities in comprehending complex, dynamic aviation environments and the potential for AI to overcome these challenges. The paper then systematically examines how AI technologies, can be leveraged to advance the Safety II approach in aviation.A key focus is integrating AI in analyzing vast quantities of operational data (e.g., flight data, maintenance records, and crew reports) to identify patterns indicative of safe and risky operational practices. The paper discusses AI's role in developing predictive models to forecast potential safety issues, enabling preemptive action.Further, the paper delves into the use of AI in enhancing real-time decision-making. AI algorithms can provide pilots and air traffic controllers with advanced decision support, offering insights drawn from a confluence of data sources that human operators might overlook. This capability is crucial in complex, rapidly evolving situations where timely and informed decisions are paramount for safety.Another significant aspect explored is the training and simulation domain. AI-driven simulations enable more realistic, adaptive training scenarios that can prepare aviation personnel for a broader range of operational contingencies, aligning with the Safety II paradigm of enhancing capacity to succeed under variable conditions.The paper also addresses the challenges and ethical considerations in implementing AI in aviation safety. Issues such as data privacy, algorithmic transparency, and the need for robust, fail-safe AI systems are critically analyzed. The potential for AI-induced overreliance and skill degradation among aviation professionals is also discussed, emphasizing the need for balanced human-AI interaction.In conclusion, this paper posits that AI, with its superior data processing and pattern recognition capabilities, is pivotal in realizing the full potential of the Safety II approach in aviation. It highlights the transformative impact AI can have on enhancing aviation safety by identifying and mitigating risks and reinforcing successful practices and decision-making processes.
The use of protective hearing devices and perceived noise disturbance and social climate in open office environments
Authors: Stroh Emilie , Persson Roger , Borell Jonas
Published: June 2024

Open office environments are architectural solutions that are believed to economize the use of office space and facilitate social interactions at work. However, research has shown that employees in open office environments may experience lower job satisfaction, stress reactions, and exhibit poorer performance. Exposure to noise in open office environments may prompt avoidance behaviours such as working from home, using meeting rooms for single use at work, or using protective hearing devices. We examine to what extent open office workers used protective hearing devices, and whether this use was related to reports of noise disturbance and if this use seemed to influence the perception of the social climate at work. Sixty-eight participants working in open office environments completed the survey. The participants worked within the same company and building but on three different floors. The use of protective devices, disturbance from noise, and social climate at work were assessed with questionnaires. The results showed that the participants were primarily disturbed by noise generated by colleagues. The social climate at work was in general perceived as relaxed and comfortable and encouraging and supportive. Fifty-four percent of the participants used protective hearing devices often or always, however this use was not significantly associated with perceived disturbance, self-rated hearing nor seemed to interact with the participants experience of the social climate at work. However, the participants frequent use of protective hearing devices is a behaviour that may interfere with the effectiveness of architectural and technical solutions such as sound masking that aim to add sounds designed to improve the intelligibly of speech and reduce overhearing.
Skin, Architecture and Sustainability: Three houses in Alentejo, Portugal
Authors: Hipolito Fernando , Botelho Helena
Published: June 2024

Sustainability is the topic of the moment. Most of the time, it's used wrongly or even just as easily consumed rhetoric.In the field of architectural research, and in the architect's work as an architectural professional who produces projects with the sole purpose of being realised/built, sustainability and its relevance require research in the field of "Project Thinking on Design" that speculates on other ways of acting and introduces alternative visions.Based on 3 case studies in Portugal, designed by 3 contemporary Portuguese architects, we propose, with this article, to study the relevance of the option of materiality, considered at the origin of the conceptual act and in the process of synthesis that is the architectural project and, with this, to legitimize the idea and open up space for architecture to be an integral part of the notion of culture as sustainability.
The adoption of current safety practices for the construction of telecommunication masts and towers: A Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Egbobawaye Julius , Aigbavboa Clinton , Otasowie Osamudiamen
Published: June 2024

Construction safety practices is a significant aspect in the construction industry, as construction workers cannot operate in an accident free environment without proper adherence to safety guidelines. The construction and maintenance of telecommunication masts and towers can pose serious accident threat to workers on site, hence the need to adopt the current safety practices in the sector. This study outlined the current safety practices observed by workers in the construction of telecommunication masts and towers. The study adopted a quantitative research approach and data collected from the participants involved in the construction telecommunication masts and towers in Nigeria. Information gathered was analysed using the mean item score (MIS), standard deviation (SD) and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The findings showcased the current safety practices of telecommunication masts and towers in the Nigeria telecommunication industry to be; personal protective equipment (PPE), fire extinguisher, safety inspection, authorized entry to construction sites is prohibited, safety policy, safety education and training programs. These were seen to have a direct impact on the safety practices currently observed in the construction of telecommunications mast and towers in the Nigerian telecommunication industry. Non adherence to safety practices can hinder the welfare of the workers and economic growth of the country. Therefore, it is imperative for the telecommunication industry in Nigeria to adopt more ways of managing safety in the industry so as to improve the safety and welfare of construction workers and prevent negative economic infractions they may arise from accidents on sight. The government should adopt measures to ensure the current safety practices are enforced among all construction stakeholders who are involved in the construction of telecommunication masts and towers to prevent accidents from happening at construction sites.
Ergonomic support for manual assembly through data-based assistance systems - challenges and solution ideas considering the legal framework conditions
Authors: Müller-eppendorfer Katharina , Meusinger Katrin
Published: June 2024

While automation is already well advanced in series production, manual production is still used for small batch sizes and multi-variant production. However, such workplaces also need to be modernized to produce not only economically but also sustainably. Improving ergonomic working conditions poses a challenge for work research: how can data-based assistance systems provide employees with recommendations on favourable work design while considering the tight legal framework regarding the collection of biometric data? A consortium of labour researchers from five colleges and universities, six network partners and more than 30 companies are working on this and other questions in the context of the introduction of AI solutions in the PerspektiveArbeit Lausitz structural change project (PAL). The declared aim is to support the transformation of the Lusatia coal mining region by enabling small and medium-sized enterprises to drive forward digitalization and use simple human-centred AI solutions to make work more people-friendly, thereby increasing their competitiveness and flexibility.The prototype is to be implemented at an electronics service provider with manual PCB production. In collaboration with Mittweida University of Applied Sciences, an application is being developed to improve activity-related ergonomics at the workplace. Visual sensors at and around the workplace will capture images that are compared with data from standards, guidelines, and ergonomics methods in real time to provide a direct message at the workplace in case of negative stress (e.g. forced posture, one-sided strain, gripping space). The video-supported analysis is intended to help identify and correct ergonomically critical movement sequences and avoid them in the long term to maintain the health of employees.Mittweida University of Applied Sciences develops an application to improve ergonomics by using visual sensors to record and evaluate ergonomic factors. The video-supported analysis is intended to identify ergonomically critical movement sequences and avoid them.It is important to not only "get employees on board” in this process from the outset in the sense of "informing" them, but to "involve" them in the implementation of the project to be able to incorporate their expertise into the development and to increase acceptance of the planned project. This is because AI applications that process personal data are regulated by the GDPR and soon also by the European Union's AI Regulation, which is expected for 2024. The Works Constitution Act (§87) must also be observed. It stipulates an economical and dedicated data collection and the avoidance of unnecessary data. What exactly needs to be considered when processing personal data using AI systems and what specific technical solution the assistance system provides to protect sensitive biometric data - this content is conveyed to the employees in awareness workshops
Excavators’ Cabins Ergonomic Design Influential Factors Modelling: Preliminary Study
Authors: Perišić Martina , Spasojevic Brkic Vesna , Mihajlovic Ivan , Brkic Aleksandar , Janev Nemanja
Published: June 2024

Excavator operators encounter demanding work environments with very high risks for discomfort, musculoskeletal disorders, and workplace accidents. In line with that, this study examines the relationship between ergonomic design influential factors using the structural model of excavator cabins design factors, using a sample of 32 excavator operators. Descriptive statistics were performed to describe the operator's age, height, weight, working experience, and excavator's lifespan. After that, the structural equations model was developed to describe the impact of latent variables related to ergonomic design of the cabin. This model was constructed by using 17 questions, which were categorized into 5 groups based on ergonomic design characteristics such as seat, armrests, commands, cabin, and working conditions. The findings indicate that the model exhibits favourable reliability and validity coefficients, a substantial effect size, and a satisfactory model fit. Further research is needed to increase the sample size, despite the preliminary nature of the current research and its satisfactory results.