bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consumer Products: How are the Hazards Perceived?
Authors: Wogalter Michael S. , Desaulniers David R. , Brelsford John W.
Published: January 2012

Two questionnaire studies were conducted examining potential components of perceptions of consumer product hazardousness. In Study 1 subjects rated 72 consumer products on perceived hazardousness, expected severity of injuries, and perceived likelihood of injury. The results indicate that severity relates more strongly than injury likelihood with perceived hazardousness. Several product knowledge variables were also examined; these results indicate that technological complexity and confidence in knowing the product's hazards add unique variance beyond severity in the prediction of hazard perception. In Study 2 subjects generated accident scenarios for each of 18 consumer products. Subjects rated each scenario according to the severity of the accident and the probability of its occurrence and also provided ratings of overall product hazardousness. Results supported the findings of Study 1. The severity of product injury scenarios were strongly and positively correlated with hazardousness. Probability of injury ratings added negligible hazard predictiveness beyond severity. Product hazardousness was highly correlated with the level of precaution subjects would reportedly take when using the product. For high hazard products the first scenario generated was most severe compared to the other two scenarios. For low hazard products, the first scenario was most probable and the least severe of the scenarios generated. Practical and theoretical implications of the results are discussed.
Isoperformance: Trading off Selection, Training, and Equipment Variations to Maintain the same Level of Systems Performance
Authors: Jones Marshall B. , Kennedy Robert S. , Kuntz Lois A. , Baltzley Dennis R.
Published: January 2012

This paper details an Air Force sponsored project known as Isoperformance. Isoperformance (iso meaning same) is a conceptual approach to human factors engineering. The focus of isoperformance is that the same level of performance can be attained by different combinations of personnel, training, and equipment. This goal is, once these combinations have been determined, a choice among them can be made in terms of maximum feasibility or minimum cost. The program takes into account human engineering, personnel, and training research. The specific focus of this paper will be the interactive computer program. Input to the isoperformance program, made by the user, includes the system, the task, a quantified definition of proficient performance as well as other specifications.
A Human Information Processing Theory of Skill Acquisition: A Training Systems View
Authors: Pendergrass Virginia E. , Hamel Cheryl J. , Salas Eduardo
Published: January 2012

This paper outlines a human information processing theory applicable to acquisition of military skills with a high processing load. The proposed approach integrates two complementary streams of thinking: (1) multiple resource theory; and (2) the concept of automaticity.
High Performance Cognitive Skill Acquisition: Perceptual/Rule Learning
Authors: Fisk Arthur D.
Published: January 2012

Two experiments examined the effects of inter-component consistency on skill acquisition in a class of cognitive demanding tasks requiring rapid integration of information as well as rapid application of rules. The role of consistency of external stimulus-to-rule linkage in facilitating the learning and performing of a rule-based classification task was examined. The present data have implications for the understanding and training of skilled problem solving tasks. When training allows the development of automatization of subcomponents of the problem solving activity, the chance of memory overload is reduced. The present data point to one such trainable subcomponent clearly present in most real-world problem solving situations - the perceptual and rule-based components.
Instruction for Military Air Intercept Control
Authors: Weinstein Lisa F.
Published: January 2012

Two experiments were conducted using a microcomputer simulation to teach military air-intercept control skills. In Experiment I, three experimental training methods were compared to the normal method in which students identify the bearing of the enemy fighter from a friendly fighter and then calculate an intercept heading. Part training was employed to provide intensive training in critical component skills. Time compression was used to speed the simulation after the student provided a solution, so that many more practice trials could be given in each training session. A spatial visualization method of determining the intercept heading was contrasted to the normal method of mathematical calculation. After training, all subjects were tested with the same whole, real-time scenario. Part training with time compression and the spatial visualization method of determining intercepts was more effective than whole, real-time training with the calculation method of determining intercepts. The results suggest a substantial benefit from time compression. The possible benefits of part-task training were not as clear. In the second experiment, two part-task training methods were compared to a whole-task method. One part-task group received long blocks of each component while the second part-task group received a series of short blocks. Time compression and spatial visualization were used in all conditions. The results suggest that part-task training does not improve the effectiveness of training air intercept control skills.
Reworking the User Interface during Convergence of Several Software Products
Authors: Percival Lynn C.
Published: January 2012

This paper documents the role of human factors engineers in some aspects of a development project for a large software product used in a complex operational environment. The process by which the user interfaces for several products were converged into a single one is described. Techniques for evaluating the user interface in this complex environment are discussed. The process involved preliminary testing to document problems, subsequent design and development activity, and verification testing to document improvements and remaining problems.
Time Stress Effects on Two Menu Selection Systems
Authors: Wallace Daniel F. , Anderson Nancy S. , Shneiderman Ben
Published: January 2012

The optimal number of menu items per display screen has been the topic of considerable debate and study. On the one hand, some designers have packed many items into each menu to conserve space and reduce the number of menus, whereas on the other hand there are designers who prefer a sparse display for menu structures and other videotex information. This study evaluated the effects of a broad/shallow menu compared to a narrow/deep menu structure under two conditions of time stress for inexperienced users. Results indicated that time stress both slowed performance, and increased errors. In addition, it was demonstrated that the broad/shallow menu was faster and resulted in fewer errors. Implications for menu design are discussed.
Introducing and Promoting Human Factors in the Real World: A Case Study
Authors: Rich Linda
Published: January 2012

The application of human factors research outside academic and vendor domains has been limited, with corporate systems development departments often unaware of the field. Introducing human factors within a corporation requires addressing organizational context issues in the particular setting. At Chemical Bank a pilot project was conducted to introduce and promote the application of human factors in the design of interactive computer systems. The project involved comparative usability evaluations of existing systems, and development of recommendations for institutionalizing human factors within the development process. The project sought to tailor recommendations to the organizational context. This paper discusses the Chemical Bank project and presents an analysis of the underlying causes limiting the use of human factors techniques in that organization.
Environmental, Psychological and Organizational Correlates of Employee Health in Offices: A Proposed Model
Authors: Hedge Alan , Wilson Sheena , Burge P. Sherwood , Robertson Alastair S. , Harris-Bass Jon
Published: January 2012

In a survey of 4373 office workers, sampled from 47 office sites across the U.K., correlates of work-related illness were investigated. Results showed that a variety of factors influence the prevalence of 10 work-related symptoms which are characteristic of the “sick building syndrome”. Path analysis was used to develop a model to represent causal associations. This model proposes that work-related illness is affected by architectural/environmental factors, individual/psychological factors, and occupational/organizational factors. The implications of this for health promotion are outlined.
Driving Performance as a Function of Time on the Road
Authors: Ranney Thomas A. , Gawron Valerie J.
Published: January 2012

The effects of driving time were examined in two experiments, both involving two-hour drives. Experiment 1 used a fully instrumented vehicle on a closed course under nighttime conditions. Experiment 2 used an interactive driving simulator. In Experiment 1 effects of driving time were increases in the frequency of right-side lane departures, decreased speed, and increased speed variability, all consistent with decreased arousal associated with fatigue. Driving time effects in Experiment 2 included increased reaction time and reaction-time variability to signs as well increases in speed, lateral acceleration and in overall performance as reflected in pay, indicating compensation for the effects of fatigue. Differences between the experiments were examined as possible explanations for differences in results.
Physiological Correlates of Behavioral Performance on the Mathematical Processing Subtest of the Cts Battery
Authors: Yolton Robert L. , Wilson Glenn , Davis Iris , McClosky Kathy
Published: January 2012

To assess the relationship between behavioral, subjective and physiological measures of mental workload, 10 adult subjects solved equations with 1,2 or 3 plus or minus operators (the Math Processing subtest of the CTS battery). Following extensive training, individual test sessions were held during which reaction times, subject workload ratings and a set of physiological measures were recorded. Reaction times and subjective workload ratings increased with the number of operators in the equations, but heart rhythm, eye blinks and peripheral temperature showed no systematic relationships to the number of operators. The P-300 event related potential decreased in amplitude and latency and a late positive component recorded at Cz decreased in amplitude and increased in latency as the number of operators in the equations was increased.
Physiological Data Used to Measure Pilot Workload in Actual Flight and Simulator Conditions
Authors: Wilson Glenn F. , Purvis Brad , Skelly June , Fullenkamp Penny , Davis Iris
Published: January 2012

Three physiological measures of workload; heart rate, eye blink, and EEG were recorded from eight experienced A-7 attack aircraft pilots. Each pilot flew the same familiar training mission three times; one mission in the lead position of a four ship formation and the other as wing, and once in an A-7 simulator. The mission lasted approximately 90 minutes and consisted of take-off, low altitude terrain following, high G maneuvers, inflight navigational updates, weapons delivery, and a high altitude cruise to base, ending in a formation landing. The data show significant differences between simulated and actual flights for all measures. There were also significant differences between mission segments for each pilot. The heart rate data most obviously reflect the changes in workload level throughout the mission and between flight position and simulator. Blink rate and duration were sensitive to changing visual attentional demands. The EEG data showed differences between the actual flight missions and the simulator.
Perceptual and Motor Determinants of Efficient Data Entry
Authors: Raij David , Gopher Daniel , Kimchi Ruth
Published: January 2012

Two scales were constructed to separately evaluate the perceptual and motor difficulty of the finger chords employed to enter letters in a newly designed chord keyboard, developed to provide an efficient alternative to the existing QWERTY keyboard. The index of motor difficulty evaluated the biomechanical problems associated with the execution of the 31 possible chord combinations of five-fingers. The perceptual index scaled the difficulty of identifying the spatial pattern created by each of the 31 chords. A regression equation that was based on the two indexes accounted for about 60% of the variance of actual typing on the chord keyboard. Perceptual and motor determinants appear to be equally potent and mostly independent in their influence on efficient data entry performance.
Effects of Cooling and Flavoring Drinking Water on Psychological Performance in a Hot Environment
Authors: Johnson Richard F. , Strowman Shelley R.
Published: January 2012

During exposure to a hot environment, unacclimatized soldiers may not voluntarily drink enough water to compensate for the loss of fluids. This study evaluated whether, with increased voluntary drinking (due to cooling and/or flavoring the drinking water), the soldier (a) will be less likely to report feelings of discomfort and symptoms of heat illness and (b) will also be better able to maintain his ability to perform psychomotor and cognitive tasks. On each of four test days in a heat chamber, eight subjects were permitted to drink ad lib only one of four beverages: cool water, warm water, cool flavored water, or warm flavored water. The subjects felt more uncomfortable and reported more symptoms of heat illness under the warm water conditions. Psychomotor performance (manual dexterity) and cognitive performance (logical reasoning) were significantly degraded under the warm water conditions but only after at least four hours of heat exposure. Flavoring the water had no effect on any of the measures. It is concluded that under hot weather conditions, degradation in psychological performance may be attenuated if soldiers are provided cool as opposed to warm drinking water.
A Norm-Independent Technique for Assessing Physical Ability of the Severely Disabled
Authors: Clay Deanna J.
Published: January 2012

A new technique for assessing the physical ability of the severely disabled was developed. One of the distinguishing properties of this technique is that it is norm-independent. That is, it does not reference a normal scale of performance, thus it does not compare the performance of a disabled person to a standard established by able-bodied persons.
A Post-Occupancy Evaluation of an Award Winner
Authors: Schmidt John K. , Kysor Kragg P. , Campanella William
Published: January 2012

A post-occupancy evaluation was conducted on an academic hall to determine if its renovation and expansion achieved its goals. Generally, survey results suggest that the structure met its objectives. However, it was found that some aspects, apart from the design concept, were not well integrated and resulted in user discomfort and diminished building utility. It is recommended that all aspects of a building, to include space utilization, furnishings and environmental control systems, be considered when constructing work spaces.
Computer-Aided Learning Support for Environmental Design Students
Authors: Brown Stephen
Published: January 2012

Intelligent CAD systems could be a useful vehicle for disseminating Human Factors principles among non Human Factors designers. Limitations of current CAD systems are discussed and an experimental system is described. It is suggested that future CAD systems should be less than expert, should be responsive to different learning styles and should employ a variety of electronic media at the user interface.
Analysis of Quantitative Data Derived from Computer Conferencing
Authors: Hahn Heidi Ann
Published: January 2012

Four classes of quantitative data may be generated when training via computer conferencing is implemented. These include activity data, survey data, performance tests, and completion rates. One of the challenges presented to users of the technology revolves around how these data can be meaningfully employed. This paper describes these data classes, their sources, and their utility to the data analyst.
The Effects of Different Data Base Formats on Information Retrieval
Authors: Boehm-Davis Deborah , Holt Robert , Yastrop Matthew Koll Gloria , Peters Robert
Published: January 2012

This research examined the effects of three different data base formats on the information retrieval performance of users. Spatial, tabular, and verbal forms of two data base domains (airline and thesaurus) were constructed, along with questions that required users to search through the data base to determine the correct response. Three types of questions were designed — spatial, tabular, and verbal. The data indicate that users are faster and more accurate in responding to the questions when the format of the information in the data base matches the type of information needed to answer the question. While the importance of matching data base format to query type may seem to be obvious, it would appear that the designers of most current data base systems have not taken this into account.
Applying Human Factors in Anesthesia Monitoring
Authors: Hudspith Sydney
Published: January 2012

The ergonomics of the anesthesia workstation have been examined, and a novel apparatus for monitoring depth of anesthesia has been developed. The depth measuring apparatus works by detecting esophageal motility during anesthesia and displaying the resulting data to the clinician. Esophageal activity is mediated by the vagus nerve and brain stem, and co-varies with the degree of brain stem activity, therefore it can be used to estimate depth of anesthesia. Moreover, the location and availability of the esophagus allow minimally-invasive monitoring of many other vital functions and the displaying of these functions on a single integrated monitor. This enables the clinician to derive from a single low-risk monitoring site a more comprehensive picture of the patient's physiological state. Data derived from clinical trials and research now underway in the UK and US tend to support these views. Now in its embryonic form, this research is being directed toward an integrated anesthesia monitor which will ultimately improve the ergonomics and economics of anesthesia delivery.
Pull-Tear Strength Capabilities in Adults
Authors: Imrhan Sheik N.
Published: January 2012

Forty-four adults between the ages of 22 and 40 years were tested for maximal volitional pulls with the fingers, similar to some pull-tear forces employed for opening packages with tear strips. Twelve different pull conditions were tested-3 types of pull X 2 directions of pull X 2 hands. Results indicated that the type of pull, characterized by the type of pinch employed, had marked effects on the force attainable, but direction and hand laterality were not significant factors. These results have important implications for design of tear strips on packages.
If Controls in the Catalogs Just Won't do, Then Top-Down Design is Right for You
Authors: Wenger William K.
Published: January 2012

Any human-artifact interface ultimately depends on the characteristics of available controls, displays, and other components. Human factors' role is often merely that of performing hardware trade-offs and making recommendations. This consumer's approach deviates from human factors' proper function of initiating and contributing optimum control/display designs. In line with the latter, a new hand control was designed for use in environments where off-the-shelf controls were found to be inadequate.
Visual Inspection for Multiple Flaws: Effects of Long-Term Inspector Experience
Authors: Matthews Michael L.
Published: January 2012

In a simulation of industrial quality control inspection, performance was tracked over a period of three months using target conditions which had previously been shown to produce performance decrements with multiple flaws. Feedback on performance was supplied to inspectors at the end of each day's work. Results showed that by the end of the period, multiple fault inspection performance was equal to or slightly better, in both accuracy and latency, than previous data obtained with single fault conditions. This finding raises concerns over previous studies which have attempted to address the issue of the supposed performance decrement associated with increasing the size of the target set.
The Effects of Magnification and Allowed Viewing Time on the Inspection of Printed Circuit Boards
Authors: Goldberg Joseph H. , Micalizzi John , O'Rourke Sean A.
Published: January 2012

Industrial inspectors are becoming more dependant on the stereoscopic microscope for detecting microminiature defects in electronic components. The present study investigated the effect of magnification on the detection of scratch defects in the etching of printed circuit boards. Ten subjects were tested under 3 levels of magnification (10x, 16x and 30x) with the time for each view adjusted so that the total viewing time remained constant. Results showed a significant increase in inspector sensitivity (d') at the 30x magnification level. Inspector sensitivity in the 10x and 16x conditions was not significantly different. These results suggest that improvements in inspector performance through magnification are possible without increasing inspection time.
Dependance of Technology Transfer on Organizational Issues Awareness is the First Step to Understanding
Authors: Gallaway Glen R.
Published: January 2012

The transformation and movement of technical product and/or service information between individuals, between an individual and an organization, between organizations, etc., might be considered a simple definition of technology transfer. It is often assumed that technical, scientific, and engineering functions determine the quality of technology transfer but there are many other controlling factors. The degree with which the data transferred is mission directed, needed, useful, timely, applicable, and practical for both the sender and receiver has an equally important effect on technology transfer. Individual, organizational, administrative, and management functions have a major role in determining whether these additional issues of technology transfer are met. It is imperative that both technical and support portions of an organization continually examine their effectiveness to meet changing technical objectives of the total organization, and re-structure as needed to meet those objectives to ensure the highest quality and quantity transfer of technological information.
The Interaction of Bottom-up and Top-down Consistency in the Development of Skills
Authors: Oransky Natalie A. , Skedsvold Paula R. , Fisk Arthur D.
Published: January 2012

An experiment is reported that was conducted to examine the possible value of higher-order consistency in skill development. Subjects made judgments about ordinal properties of stimuli. The presence or absence of consistency was defined by the type of decision – consistent or varied decisions. In both decision conditions the stimuli were inconsistent at the individual stimulus level; however, subjects making consistent decisions concerning the stimuli could make use of consistent relationships among the stimuli. Subjects in the consistent decision were faster and more accurate at identifying target stimuli when compared with the inconsistent decision subjects. In addition to the quantitative differences, subjects receiving consistent decision training were qualitatively different in performance when compared to the inconsistent decision group. The pattern of results from the present experiment is quite consistent with previous memory/visual search investigations. The experiment supports the suggestion that local level (or stimulus based) consistency is not necessary for automatic process development if task relevant higher-order (or global) consistency can be identified and used by the trainees.
A Confirmatory Factor Analytic Investigation of time Sharing Performance and Cognitive Abilities
Authors: Brookings Jeffrey B.
Published: January 2012

Eighty-one male subjects performed four information processing tasks and six dual task combinations, and completed a battery of psychometric ability tests selected to define three first-order factors and a second-order general ability factor. Confirmatory maximum likelihood factor analyses of the performance data provided no support for a general time-sharing factor, but a model with factors corresponding to the four single tasks provided a good fit to the data. The Grammatical Reasoning factor was highly correlated with the Verbal and second-order General Ability factors, suggesting that this task may be a good single index of total attentional resources.
An Assessment of Display Formats for Crew Alerting and Guidance
Authors: LaLumiere-Grubbs Linda , Berson Barry L. , Boucek George P. , Anderson Charles , Summers Leland G. , Metalis Samuel
Published: January 2012

During the last 13 years the investigation of crew alerting during non-normal situations has progressed from the study of a single system, altitude monitoring, to a consideration of the total system. The result of this progression is that a highly self-contained system concept has been defined that will facilitate an effective crew response to both normal and non-normal situations. The concept system is intended to not only monitor aircraft systems and flight operations, but also provide improved guidance and status information. The form the information takes will ultimately affect the timeliness of information perception, processing, and crew performance. This paper describes three studies conducted to assess the relative effectiveness of selected display formats in communicating time-critical information to commercial airline pilots. A part-task simulation was used to collect response time and number of errors. Format type, format complexity, and format symbology were varied in this evaluation. Results showed that response to symbolic formats without alphanumerics was faster and more accurate than to symbolic formats with alphanumerics or alphanumeric only formats. These results were incorporated into a full mission aircraft simulator for evaluating the effectiveness of the system concept and eventual incorporation into FAA guidelines for future commercial aircraft.
User Interface Prototyping: A Review of PC-Based Tools and their Features
Authors: Schwalm Robert C. , Thomas Mark E. , White Robert J. , Williams R. Don
Published: January 2012

User interface prototyping refers to the part of the system design process that quickly identifies and presents user needs as a model of the system being developed. This paper discusses the advantages and disadvantages of PC-based user interface prototyping, identifies the features which characterize effective prototyping tools, and compares and contrasts different PC-based prototyping tools based on the strengths and limitations of each. Comparisons to more powerful and more expensive prototyping environments are also presented. Finally, the requirements for development of an advanced PC-based prototyping tool are discussed.
Occupant Perception of the Work Environment
Authors: Rohles Frederick H. , Woods James E. , Morey Philip E.
Published: January 2012

Twelve features of the indoor environment representing the thermal, acoustical, lighting and air quality constituents were rated according to their percentage contribution to the quality of the indoor space by 111 advanced engineering students and 89 clerical workers. The resulting mean percentages were: temperature 15.8; brightness of the lighting, 11.0; tobacco smoke, 9.8; loudness of the sound, 8.7; noisy distractions, 8.5; lighting glare, 7.9; odor, 7.5; air movement, 7.2; humidity, 7.1; dust, 6.7; shadows, 5.1; and pitch, 4.7. The results showed that the thermal environment was judged to be significantly more important (p < .01) than the other three constituents, that the loudness and pitch of the sound was significantly (p < .01) more important to the student sample than to the clerical sample, and that temperature was perceived as more critical (p < .05) to the clerical sample than to the student sample.
Human Centered Design and Analysis Model for Chemical Defense Shelters
Authors: Hottman Stephen B. , Post Michael E.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a human centered computer simulation model for the ingress, egress, and bi-directional processing of personnel through the contamination control area (CCA) of a collective protection system. Collective protection systems are being developed by the Armed Forces to provide an area where individuals may rest, sleep, and eat without the need to wear individual protective clothing in a chemical warfare environment. Individuals enter these collective protection systems through a contamination control area by following a set of procedures for decontamination and removal of their protective clothing. The purpose for developing this computer model was to provide a means for detailed analysis and design of a CCA prior to actual prototype or operational test and evaluation. It can be used to analyze alternative operational scenarios for systems that have already been constructed. The program structure was developed as part of an iterative task analytical approach which was used to design a prototype collective protection system. The model generates a visual representation of the process on the computer monitor. It includes distributions of process times and arrival intervals. The model can be used to determine the effects of variations in process times, variations in process time distributions, training effects, and alternative hardware configurations. This model could be modified to analyze or design almost any process that is comprised of a series of sequential tasks or operations.
Resources, Confusions, and Compatibility in Dual Axis Tracking: Displays, Controls, and Dynamics
Authors: Fracker Martin L. , Wickens Christopher D.
Published: January 2012

Dual axis compensatory tracking was investigated as a function of whether error displays were integrated or separated, whether axis controls were integrated into one stick or remained separate, and whether the control dynamics on the two axes were the same or different. Tracking error increased and control activity decreased as a function of the summed difficulty of the two control dynamics. Integrated displays and integrated controls both led to increased confusions between tracking axes although error was unaffected. Importantly, performance was also affected by whether the integrality of displays matched that of controls. These results suggest that dual axis tracking is subject to independent effects of resource competition, confusions, and Wickens' (1986b) compatibility of proximity principle.
A Contrast of Guideline Recommendations and Tullis's Prediction Model for Computer Displays: Should Text be Left-Justified?
Authors: Fontenelle Gail A.
Published: January 2012

Two experiments investigated the effect of layout complexity for performance at varying levels of practice on four types of information extraction tasks. Layout complexity is defined as the number of unique horizontal and vertical starting positions of items in the display (Tullis, 1984). In the first study, layout complexity was manipulated by either left-justifying or not left-justifying text. In the second study, subject veiwed a third experimental screen that displayed the starting positions of items in a completely unpredictable pattern. Moderate violations of the typical guideline recommendation that alphanumeric data be left-justified did not increase user search time across all four tasks in either the first or second study. Furthermore, severe violations of the recommendation did not increase user search time for three tasks (find label, scan data, and compare label). However when subjects compared multiple data values, the random format did increase user search time. Though performance using the three experimental screens was comparable across the four tasks with only one exception, subjective ratings demonstrated differences between the three formats.
Safety and Seat Constraints for a Turreted Weapon System
Authors: Congleton Jerome J. , Gondella Doug
Published: January 2012

Of primary concern to the Army is the compliance of crew workstations to Manprint so as to enhance operator comfort and safety in the performance of the specified tasks. This paper discusses the methodology and design tools utilized to provide Crew Seats for the Army Tank - Turreted Air Defense Weapon System. In particular, the use of the Cad System - Ideas for generating anthropometric models for the 5th percentile male lightly clothed and the 95th percentile male in arctic clothing from MIL-HDBK-759A and the design constraints on MIL-STD-1472C will be reviewed. Potential environmental factors affecting safety and human performance, potential areas of concern regarding entry and egress, potential areas of concern regarding workspace, and the Turreted Weapon System seat requirements will be discussed.
An Evaluation of Methods for Producing Specific Colors on CRTs
Authors: Post David L. , Calhoun Christopher S.
Published: January 2012

Experiments were performed to evaluate several methods for generating colors having specific CIE chromaticity coordinates and luminances on a CRT. The methods' accuracies are characterized and avenues for improvement are suggested.
Flight Simulation Training Using Standard and Non-Standard Tasks
Authors: Reardon Kimberly A. , Oliver Celia G. , Warren Rik
Published: January 2012

The use of computers for cue generation and the safety inherent in simulators permits new “tasks” which are impossible in real flight. We are investigating the potential efficacy of using a particularly striking non-standard task, namely flying at zero-altitude and even below ground. Our hypothesis was that increased experience with optically violent displays during training would improve performance during the testing phase of maintaining low, above ground flight. In the training phase half of the subjects maintained zero altitude while the other half flew as low as possible without crashing. Contrary to our hypothesis the low-trained subjects had a lower standard deviation and mean altitude than the zero-trained subjects in testing. Although our hypothesis was not supported, the concept of exploring novel ways of using flight simulators deserves further attention.
Quantifying Some Information Processing Requirements of the Pilot's Instrument Crosscheck
Authors: Bunecke Joseph L.
Published: January 2012

Previous research concerning the pilot's visual scan is descriptive/predictive in nature. This experiment quantitatively demonstrates the information processing aspects of one instrument monitoring technique. The results imply that experienced pilot eye movement patterns reflect workload minimization strategies developed early during flight training.
Effect of Music on Performance in Human-Computer Interface
Authors: Tayyari Fariborz , Smith James L.
Published: January 2012

The effect of music at two levels (60–65 dB and 80–85 dB), vs. no music (silent), on the performance of 40 subjects engaged in a data processing task was studied. It was found that, while the music did not disturb the overall accuracy of the task output, it increased the subjects' speed in data processing and overall productivity. The subjects showed a favorable attitude toward music being introduced at workstations.
Work Rhythm and Breathing Rhythm in a Repetitive Perceptual–Motor Task: The Effects of Synchronization on Performance
Authors: Henning Robert A.
Published: January 2012

A laboratory investigation was conducted to determine if synchronization between the work rhythm and the respiratory biorhythm benefits perceptual-motor performance. The effect of work-respiratory (W–R) synchronization on reaction time, error rate, and perceived difficulty was evaluated for a visual choice reaction time task. Interstimulus intervals were chosen to induce a work rhythm. Prior to the experiment, the task was performed in a self-paced mode so that a baseline work rate could be identified for each subject. Each subject (N=22) then performed the task at 3 machine-paced work rhythms; 1) equal to the work rhythm of the baseline work rate, 2) 33% faster than the work rhythm of the baseline work rate, and 3) 33% slower than the work rhythm of the baseline work rate. Each condition consisted of two, 4 min trials separated by a brief rest break. Work rate (in responses per minute) was held constant across conditions through adjustments in task structure. Regression analysis revealed that W–R synchronization was associated with a 1% reduction in error rate and a 15 msec reduction in reaction time. These results suggest that W–R synchronization benefits perceptual–motor performance of repetitive tasks.
Performance and Qwl in a Data Entry Task
Authors: Cornell Paul
Published: January 2012

The effects of the work environment on performance and QWL was examined in bank proof encoding departments. A multidimensional model was proposed and included environmental factors, people factors, and organizational effectiveness. A large set of variables, measuring all aspects of the model, was reduced via stepwise regression and subjected to a canonical correlation, which yielded two variates. Job design and context were strongly linked to QWL, while job and organizational design, and the physical environment were linked to performance. The necessity of a multidimensional approach was supported by the findings. The model proved useful, but only in a limited sense.
Part-Task vs. Whole-Task Training on a Supervisory Control Task
Authors: Battiste Vernol
Published: January 2012

The primary aim of training is to improve performance. Part-task training may be the more economical method, because full mission training simulators often cost more than the vehicles they simulate. However, the skills learned may not transfer effectively to performance of the complete task. This study investigated the effectiveness of Part-task training on the psychomotor portion of a supervisory control simulation. Twelve subjects were divided into Part-task and Whole-task groups and told to perform the task as quickly as possible. Part-task training was provided with the cursor-control device (a magnetic pen and pad), prior to transition to the Whole-task. Some distinct advantages of the Part-task training were: (1) The Part-task group learned the task faster; (2) The Part-task group's scores and task times continued to improve, while the Whole-task group's did not; and (3) A significant increase in speed of response for the Part-task group and almost no improvement in speed for the Whole-task group.
Three-Dimensional Auditory Cue Simulation for Crew Station Design/Evaluation
Authors: Calhoun Gloria L. , Valencia German , Furness Thomas A.
Published: January 2012

A three-dimensional (3-D) auditory display can increase the pilot's situational awareness without requiring visual fixation. When visual acquisition is required, the directional sound can give the pilot a more rapid cue to aim the eyes or head. In order to determine the utility and performance of a 3-D auditory display for cockpit applications, a method for generating 3-D auditory cues is required for simulation. Two laboratory systems are described which create, from monaural stimuli, binaural stimuli which can be perceived as localized and stabilized in space, regardless of the listener's head position. Additionally, preliminary results of the localization performance with one approach are presented.
An Approach for Specifying and Managing Submarine Combat System Operator Interface Requirements
Authors: Kirchner-Dean Erica
Published: January 2012

This paper discusses the importance of a carefully developed set of control and display standards and conventions for submarine combat systems, and the use of a requirements data base and rapid prototyping to assist in their definition. Some of the human factors issues that are confronted when attempting to develop a useful set of control and display standards are discussed. The requirements data base is also being used to assure that the proper level of interface consistency is achieved across functional interfaces. The data base incorporates attributes of Navy specified control and display requirements and attributes imposed by the human factors engineer. The data base attributes and its potential uses for defining and managing operator interface requirements are discussed.
Human Factors Simulation to Support Software Design
Authors: Gutekunst Kevin R. , Cruise Richard J.
Published: January 2012

Computer simulation of the operator/system interface is a useful tool for supporting system software design. Simulation is also a flexible and cost effective method for applying human engineering analysis techniques as required by MIL-H-46855 (Human Engineering Requirements for Military Systems, Equipment and Facilities). This paper describes the integrated methodology used to model the operator/computer interaction for a newly developed military system. The operator/computer interface was potentially complex since the operators were required to control several sensors as well as communicate intelligence information within specified time constraints. In order to focus the design process and optimize the operator/computer interface, a computer simulation using the Micro SAINT software package was performed. This simulation provided a dynamic and integrated approach for performing subsequent design trade offs and developing software interface specifications and requirements.
Reflections on Human Error: Matters of Life and Death
Authors: Wiener Earl L.
Published: January 2012

The last two decades have witnessed a rapid growth in the introduction of automatic devices into aircraft cockpits, and elsewhere in human-machine systems. This was motivated in part by the assumption that when human functioning is replaced by machine functioning, human error is eliminated. Experience to date shows that this is far from true, and that automation does not replace humans, but changes their role in the system, as well as the types and severity of the errors they make. This altered role may lead to fewer, but more critical errors. Intervention strategies to prevent these errors, or ameliorate their consequences include basic human factors engineering of the interface, enhanced warning and alerting systems, and more intelligent interfaces that understand the strategic intent of the crew and can detect and trap inconsistent or erroneous input before it affects the system.
The Effect of Windscreen Bows and Hud Pitch Ladder on Pilot Performance during Simulated Flight
Authors: Deaton LCDR John E. , Barnes Michael , Lindsey Nancy , Greene Janettarose , Kern Jonathan
Published: January 2012

During the upgrade of the F-14 to the F-14D, pilots have expressed their concerns regarding the obscuration of the forward field-of-view due to the new Head-up Display (HUD) supports in conjunction with preexisting windscreen bows. An additional issue involves the proposed use of the HUD as the primary flight reference instrument. The HUD pitch ladder has been criticized for not providing enough information to enhance recovery from unusual attitudes. The purpose of the present study was twofold: (1) to measure the levels of “target” detection with and without windscreen bows, and (2) to measure unusual attitude recovery performance using two different HUD pitch ladder formats. During simulated flight, 12 subjects were required to make visual detections of enemy aircraft with and without the bows. Subjects were also required to recover from various pitch/roll combinations. Removal of the bows improved target detection. Results of the obscuration study showed that in the first 5 seconds into the flight 80% of the targets were detected with bows off, while only 60% were detected with bows on. Evaluation of the two HUD pitch ladder formats revealed that, at severe negative pitch attitudes, there was a marked performance benefit with the Enhanced HUD vice the Standard HUD. Possible improvements in current HUD pitch ladder formats were suggested which would convey more cues to accurately and rapidly determine aircraft attitude.
Building a Modeling and Simulation Analysis Tool to Predict Air Traffic Controller Workload and Performance
Authors: Reaux Ray A. , Murphy Elizabeth D. , Stewart Lisa J. , Gresh Janet L. , Bruce Karin
Published: January 2012

To meet expected increases in domestic air traffic, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will increase the level of automation in the domestic air traffic control (ATC) system. There is a need to assess the effects of the increased automation on controller workload and performance. Software-based engineering tools are needed to automate the analysis, allowing designers to identify potential problems early in the system design lifecycle. This paper describes one such tool, the Predictive Air Traffic Controller Analysis Model (PATCAM), a modeling and simulation analysis tool that uses a system operations concept and task attributes database, a controller activities model, a sector environment model and simulation engine, and a workload or performance model to predict the impact of system design changes on controller workload or performance.
Investigation of Display Issues Relevant to the Presentation of Aircraft Fault Information
Authors: Allen Donald M.
Published: January 2012

This research, performed as a part of NASA Langley's Faultfinder project, investigated display implementation issues related to the introduction of real time fault diagnostic systems into next generation commercial aircraft. Three major issues were investigated: visual display styles for presenting fault related information to the crew, the form the output from the expert system should take, and methods for filtering fault related information for presentation to the crew. Twenty-four flight familiar male volunteers participated as subjects. Five subjects were NASA test pilots, six were Commercial Airline Pilots, seven were Air Force Lear Jet pilots, and six were NASA personnel familiar with flight (non-pilots). Subjects were presented with aircraft subsystem information on a CRT screen. They were required to identify the subsystems presented in a display and to remember the state (normal or abnormal) of subsystem parameter information contained in the display. The results of the study indicated that in the simpler experimental test cases (i.e., those involving single subsystem failures and composite hypothesis displays) subjects' performance did not differ across the different display formats. However, for the more complex cases (i.e., those involving multiple subsystem faults and multiple hypotheses displays), subjects' performance was superior in the text- and picture-based display formats compared to the symbol-based format. In addition, the findings suggest that a layered approached to information display is appropriate.
Predictive Performance Models and Multiple Task Performance
Authors: Wickens Christopher D. , Larish Inge , Contorer Aaron
Published: January 2012

This symposium presents five models that predict how performance of multiple tasks will interact in complex task scenarios. The models are discussed, in part, in terms of the assumptions they make about human operator divided attention. The different assumptions about attention are empirically validated in a multitask helicopter flight simulation reported in the present paper. It is concluded from this simulation that the most important assumption relates to the coding of demand level of different component tasks. The potential gains to be made multiple resource assumptions remain uncertain.