bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Model-Based Team Design
Authors: MacMillan Jean , Paley Michael J. , Levchuk Yuri N. , Serfaty Daniel
Published: January 2012

The introduction of new technology, along with cost pressures to “do more with less,” are forcing organizations to re-engineer their team structures and processes. We have developed a systematic, formal, quantitative model-based approach for designing teams. The team model specifies tasks to be accomplished, interdependencies between tasks, resources available to accomplish the tasks, and a set of goals and constraints for the team. We optimize a multi-variable objective function to develop a team design that specifies the tasks performed and the resources controlled by each team member and the authority structure and communication links for the team. We are currently designing teams in a number of military domains—Joint Task Forces, Navy shipboard command centers, Air Force Air Operations Centers, and Air Force AW ACS teams. This paper will use examples from these domains to point out similarities and differences in the team-design problem across domains
A Simple Cost Benefit Analysis for an Ergonomics “Train-The-Trainer” Program
Authors: Baxter Kim , Harrison Deanna
Published: January 2012

Cost justifying ergonomics interventions is becoming a necessary and important component of any ergonomics program. An ergonomics “Train-the-Trainer” program was established at TELUS in response to recommendations from a study on upper extremity musculoskeletal injuries among telephone operators. The training resulted in the formation of local “experts” or ergonomics teams, who were expected to provide in-house expertise in ergonomics and to assist in the promotion of ergonomics activities in the office on a regular basis. Since the inception of the local teams, there has been a reduction in the incidence and costs of reported upper extremity musculoskeletal injuries in Operator Services. An analysis was undertaken in order to quantify the total savings in dollars that resulted from this program, including savings in claim costs and savings in days lost. Based on the calculations, it was reported that the Ergonomics “Train-the-Trainer” program had resulted in total direct cost savings to TELUS of $163,000 over a two year period. This information was provided to Operator Services management and members of the local ergonomics teams. Ongoing support for the teams and analysis of musculoskeletal injury trends will continue.
Analysis of the Correlation among Thermal Dissatisfaction and Productivity in the Indoor Environment with VDT
Authors: da Silva Luiz Bueno , Fialho Francisco Antonio P. , Coutinho Antonio Souto , Botelho da F. Lima Márcio , de Augusto P. Xavier Antonio
Published: January 2012

This paper presents an investigation hold on a Bank Agency Compensation Department about the correlation between productivity and thermal dissatisfaction indicators, through the use of Pearson's coefficient (r). The criteria for measuring thermal comfort conditions were based on PMV indexes (Predicted Mean Vote), and PPD (Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied), according ISO 7730/1994 norm. Productivity was measured through the use of a computer program developed for running in a UNIX platform. The results show a meaningful correlation between thermal dissatisfaction and productivity, when the central air conditioning system was working satisfactorily.
Standardization of Requirements to Ergonomic Knowledge and Skills of a Bachelor in Professional Pedagogics
Authors: Asherov A.
Published: January 2012

The article deals with the procedure of formulating the requirements to ergonomic knowledge and skills of bachelors of professional pedagogics who are going to train future workers in machine-building and tool-making. The whole procedure consists of 7 stages. A part of these stages is similar for bachelors of all technical specialities. The scope and contents of the requirements at the final stages of the procedure are determined by the level and sphere of the activity of the future specialist. The acquired knowledge and skills are a component part of educational-qualification characteristics for a bachelor, the characteristics being the object of standardization.
In Search for Pedagogical Indicators for Evaluating Educational Material
Authors: Catapan Araci Hack , Fialho Francisco Antonio Pereira
Published: January 2012

This study presents an ergonomic-pedagogic evaluation of educational software. The focus of this work is centered in the evaluation of two properties. One of them is ergonomic - usability - and another is pedagogic - learning. The developed methodology consists in application of the following evaluation techniques: verification list (Ergolist) to verify the applicability and conformity indexes, and Interaction Rehearsal to verify the integration among these properties, taking as pedagogic presupposition the classification of learning objectives system by Bloom. The general results indicate that exist integration among these criteria, and that the integration of them can facilitate learning.
In the Beginning…
Authors: Held Jürgen , Krueger Helmut
Published: January 2012

Despite user involvement, the problems of acceptance and sustainability of systems design still remains. The thousands of methods of traditional, user-centred or co-operative design supports the view, that the problem solving isn't the problem, but the problem is the mutual understanding of the problem. The presented work analyse design experiences, derive principles in participatory design practices and develop a model - not of design stages - but of the roles, tasks and processes in the interactions of designers and users. Result is a structure of four principles: simplicity, confrontation, character of games and overview. The developed B-fore model shows the importance of reciprocal changes of the processes “show-recognise” and “explain-understand”. This lead to a co-operation of interpretations before (‘B-fore’) the co-operation in actions of problem solving begins.
Successful Change Concepts in Small- and Medium-Sized Companies – A Long-Term Perspective
Authors: Hasselhorn Tilmann
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a multiple-case study, evaluating the long-term evolvement and success of two different organizational change concepts in five Swedish small- and medium sized companies (SMEs), The two concepts studied, group-work concepts and suggestion schemes, were evaluated according to eight criteria, which are believed to especially support a long-term enhancement of employee participation in SMEs.
Successful Outcomes of an Ergonomics Process using an Ergonomics Task Force
Authors: Heller Alison R.
Published: January 2012

With the first state ergonomics regulation in place and more on the way, employers are now being held accountable for ergonomic compliance. Employers are increasingly interested in realizing benefits with ergonomics, despite regulations. In this study, an ergonomics process is introduced which includes a participatory approach through the development of an Ergonomics Task Force. This participatory approach using labor and management to apply ergonomic principals demonstrates significant and substantia] benefits for a variety of organizations from a public safety agency to an educational facility (2) to a banking entity, a hospital and a biotechnology firm. This study identifies the numerous ways that organizations are benefiting from an ergonomics process using an ergonomics task force as the source of in-house expertise.
User Centered Design, Training and Innovation. Organizational Change and Development in the Municipality of Rome
Authors: Matarazzo Giacinto , Graziano Annamaria
Published: January 2012

In January 1999 a change management Project named “Organizational change and development in the Municipality of Rome – Local Taxes Office” began. The main objective was to simultaneously improve: (a) the effectiveness of the information system; (b) the organizational climate; (c) the quality of service provided to citizens; (d) the effectiveness of personnel communications. The Project was based on participatory ergonomics principles aimed at empowering people at any level of the organization. The Project is still in progress. In this paper some methodological aspects and preliminary results are presented and discussed.
From Health Needs Assessment to Ergonomic Actions. How to Initiate a Participatory Change Process?
Authors: Mairiaux Ph. , Muller M. , Vandoorne C.
Published: January 2012

A health promotion process has been launched within a large Belgian university hospital. This presentation outlines the organisational background of the whole process and the rationale underlining the choice of the methodologies used to survey the health needs of the health care workers and to define priorities. In order to elicit effective participation from the staff members, several questions have to be addressed in the transitional phase between problem situations assessment and ergonomic intervention: which channels use to disseminate the information about the survey results, what role for the top management of the hospital and for the ergonomic experts, which support methodologies should be provided for initiating the change process?
Assessment of Production Planning and Scheduling Work Using Ergonomic Work Analysis
Authors: Karltun Johan , Berglund Martina
Published: January 2012

Production scheduling is an important and complex activity in manufacturing enterprises. Increasing market demands concerning service has to be managed, often within reduced time space and decision latitude. This paper reports findings from studying scheduling in a Swedish sawmill with the twofold aim to describe and analyze scheduling work and to assess ergonomic work analysis as a method for this. The conclusions drawn were that sawmill scheduling work was complex and that the scheduler was exposed to a high degree of uncertainty. The scheduling in practice was performed by a group of people, relating to different parts of the entire business processes in the company. The scheduling tools, developed by the individual schedulers, were efficient and flexible complements to the MPC-system. Finally, ergonomic work analysis proved to be a useful method for analyzing scheduling work, although there may be difficulties in distinguishing between the prescribed work and work as it is actually carried out.
Network Organizations Design: A Study Case of Outsourcing in a Brazilian Hospital
Authors: Gomes José Orlando , Vidal Mario Cesar , Benchekroun Tahar Hakim
Published: January 2012

Through a combination of macro-managerial and micro-situated approaches, we study the impact of outsourced hospital equipment maintenance contracts upon real activity in three sensible points of a Hospital. The study shows clearly the distinction between an organization conceived through the co-activity involving organic and outsourced personnel, in opposition to the need for a cooperating collective.
Development of Work Organization and Productivity in a Small Industrial Company — A Case Study
Authors: Johansson Curt R. , Odenrick Per
Published: January 2012

The aim of the present study is to describe and analyze the preconditions for simultaneous development of productivity and work organization in a small company based on action research using the Hourglass model. The ongoing change process in the company is aiming at developing the competence of personnel and management in order to enhance relations with customers and the market. Its special focus is how external factors can improve productivity.
A Diagnostic Procedure for Preventing Musculoskeletal Injuries (MSIs)
Authors: M. Archer K. , C. Leclair
Published: January 2012

Generally speaking, the application of ergonomics approaches by participants focuses on analyzing and redesigning workstations and production lines. These approaches facilitate the implementation of solutions, and are worthwhile in cases where a limited number of workstations present MSI risk factors and the problem is well-defined. Very often, however, the station-by-station approach does not allow companies to deal with systemic dysfunctions, where several workstations have to be taken into account at the same time. We have therefore developed a diagnostic procedure for dealing with generalized problems within companies. This procedure was tested in a sports equipment manufacturing company. The project was carried out with a view to offering the company guidance in terms of the actions it should take to prevent MSIs and improve productivity.
Measuring Situation Awareness in Training Systems: A Multivariate Approach
Authors: Vincenzi Dennis A. , Hays Robert T. , Seamon Alton G.
Published: January 2012

The Virtual Environment for Submarine Ship Handling Training (VESUB) project developed, demonstrated, and evaluated the training potential of a VE-based training system. Based on perceptual and cognitive task analyses, and input from subject matter experts, 15 performance variables were developed. These variables were combined and analyzed using multivariate techniques that provided a measure of situation awareness and general ship handling ability. These 2 new variables were then analyzed using an ANOVA with experience (novice or experienced) as the between subjects variable, and scenario session (pre-training or post-training) as the within subjects variable.

The results indicated a significant improvement in situation awareness and general ship handling ability for both novice and experienced trainees. The VESUB training system provided the training needed to produce significant performance improvements for novice personnel who knew very little about ship handling, and also provided significant refresher training for experienced personnel. The use of multivariate analyses of specific embedded task measures provided an empirical link between situation awareness and human performance.
On-Line Training Feedback: Does it Help?
Authors: Cook Catherine A. , Young Alison L. , O'Shea Amanda M. , McLaughlin Lucy E.
Published: January 2012

Currently in the Royal Navy, any training feedback provided during a team training exercise at sea or in the full training simulator is delivered by a human instructor “as required”, with the majority of feedback provided in a post-exercise debrief. An automated embedded training system would enable the provision of feedback in real-time during a training session to be standardised, but could provide an almost unlimited amount of feedback. The aim of this research is therefore to identify the benefits of providing on-line feedback, and to develop guidelines for future advanced training systems. This paper describes work that has been carried out to identify existing feedback principles, and to evaluate their utility in the context of a complex, real-time computer-based task. A series of experiments was conducted using a simulation of elements of a Naval Anti-Air Warfare decision making task, with Naval operators as participants. This paper describes the experimental test-bed and provides an overview of the experimental programme. Preliminary results from the first experiment are reported, comparing trainee performance and retention when on-line feedback is provided, with a control condition of no feedback.
Comparison of Cognitive Model Uses in Intelligent Training Systems
Authors: Ryder Joan , Santarelli Thomas , Scolaro Jackie , Hicinbothom James , Zachary Wayne
Published: January 2012

Cognitive models are human performance models that represent human knowledge and internal information manipulation processes. Many uses of cognitive models in training systems have been proposed in the literature, but actual applications have lagged behind, and comparative assessments are rare. To fill this gap, experiences in applying cognitive models in several different intelligent tutoring/training systems are reviewed and compared. All the applications were developed using the same cognitive modeling framework (COGNET) and software (iGEN™). The models fall into two main categories:

expert performance models, used for tracing knowledge and actions, and instructional agents, used to predict, observe, and diagnose trainee use of specific knowledge sets and skills.

Comparisons focus on the model development process and the efficacy of the resulting system. A set of preliminary conclusions on the selection and development of cognitive models in training systems is offered.
The Statistical Modelling of Team Training
Authors: O'Shea Amanda M. , Hankins Matthew C.
Published: January 2012

The aim of this research is to assist the Royal Navy in the evaluation of team training. This has included providing the specification for T-TESS (Team Training Evaluation Support System) – a tool that assists training authorities, managers and/or practitioners who are not experts in statistical procedures with the identification of appropriate measurement data and data analysis. The ultimate aim is to incorporate T-TESS into future embedded training systems to facilitate the identification and analysis of a variety of sources of objective data (e.g. keystroke, head/eye-tracking, and on-line individual and task characteristics data). In the provision of support for training evaluation, though, the system is also of great value today. This paper therefore describes the development of T-TESS from both present and future perspectives. This development has included the identification of a theoretical model of the determinants of team training performance, the transformation of this theoretical model into a statistical model (derived using structural equation modelling procedures) to underlie the system, and the specification of the interface. Finally, an attempt to validate a subset of the statistical model is presented.
Double Evolution – A Computer-Based Quality Management System for Enterprise-Specific Training
Authors: Pereira Carlos
Published: January 2012

This paper deals with the development and implementation of a computer-based quality management system for enterprise-specific training. The system can be used by both training organisations and enterprises. It gives training processes a structure and it provides instruments that can be used for the assurance and evaluation of the quality of training.
Integral – An Interactive Tool for the Web-Based Training of Ergonomics
Authors: Bruder Ralph , Rötting Matthias
Published: January 2012

In a joint effort of four German universities a web-based training tool for teaching ergonomics was developed. In addition to “classical” computer-based training, the INTEGRAL system allows students from different universities to collaborate. One major aim of INTEGRAL is the autonomous development and evaluation of design solutions by the students.
Applying User-Centered Design in the Context of the Deming Quality Cycle: The Design and Development of a Server Computer
Authors: D'Souza Melroy E.
Published: January 2012

There are many different tools and methodologies in the field of human factors for user-centered design. Similarly, other fields have tools and methodologies that enable practitioners in those fields to perform their work. Although these tools may be used most productively within their specific fields, they might contain elements that lend themselves to being applied in other domain areas. The field of quality engineering has been around for a while and has many useful tools. The similarity in the goals of the fields of human factors engineering and quality engineering suggests that there could be certain methodologies and tools in the area of quality engineering that, practitioners of human factors might find useful and applicable to the development of products and services from a user-centered perspective. This paper explores the application of user-centered design in the context of the Deming Cycle to the development of a server computer in an actual organization. It also provides examples of actual issues that were identified during the “check” phase of the Deming Cycle, and describes the actions that were performed to address these issues.
Process Organization as a Determinant on Team Development and Maturity
Authors: Stawowy Georg , Luczak Holger
Published: January 2012

Numerous German companies experience a slow down in team work two to three years after the implementation. Therefore, stability of work organization gains importance as a strategic goal. Based on a literature review on team development a model to describe team development as a basis for the definition of team maturity is presented in this paper. Furthermore, a classification of team tasks in addition to a chosen model of team development lead to a model to explain the relationships among process organization, team tasks and the level of social-psychological development. The underlying hypothesis are finally formulated. Following, a company case study with 28 teams has been conducted to research the tasks within a flow production line and to assess in 48 interviews with members of 14 teams the achieved level of team maturity.
Organizational Impacts on Effectiveness of Self-Directed Team Work Organization
Authors: Wimmer Ralf
Published: January 2012

In the last decade, in the German industry self-directed work teams (SDWT) became a tremendous significance as a work organization for simultaneously improving productivity, flexibility and motivation. Several field and case studies show economical and social effects of self-directed work teams, but just as much show the opposite. This leads to the conclusion, that effects (and risks) of self directed work teams depend on complex and interconnected influences. Current researches focus on attributes of organizational structure and the process of implementation of self directed work teams. Additionally, we assume that the maturation of self-directed team work organization and organizational impacts like leadership, formalization of communication or degree of professionalism have to be taken in account.
Understanding Context: Transculturation and Imposed Change
Authors: Kirwin Andrew
Published: January 2012

Community development is a long process of inquiry, program development, and deployment. There are many impediments to successful development, and many methods for implementing change. One issue that often thwarts development is the rejection of change through transculturation by the community. Understanding and modeling transculturation can improve development by increasing the predictability of stakeholders response to change, and providing a template for designing change that is congruent with existing cultural norms.
The Role of Macroergonomics in Large-Scale Sociotechnical Systems
Authors: Sen Tapas K.
Published: January 2012

In recent years, the involvement of macroergonomists in sociotechnical systems has been primarily concentrated in business and industry. However, that role needs to expand into other areas of our society. As technology becomes an integral part of our lives, all social systems, such as the education system, are virtually becoming sociotechnical systems. Technological innovation is changing the way knowledge can be delivered to the learners. To successfully capture the new benefits of high technology and meet the growing demands for lifelong learning, the current US education system needs to change. Macroergonomics has a critical role to play in this transformation process to ensure that the redesigned education system is efficient and effective in its response to the changing needs of the workplace.
Participative Approaches for Evaluating the Hazards of New Technology
Authors: Smith Michael J.
Published: January 2012

New technology is transforming the workplace and bringing with it hazards that were unknown a few decades ago. New chemicals, plasma gases, biotechnology, new electronic devices, robots, and genetic engineering are being introduced so quickly that we do not know if they pose new threats to health until after they have been in wide use. These new technologies challenge our current state of knowledge about health hazards and our ability to control potential hazards. A major concern is that there currently are not enough resources to handle traditional safety and health hazards, and that these new challenges will tax the capabilities of our current health and safety resources. It is very likely that the potential hazards posed by new technology may not be amenable to traditional safety and health approaches. A major difficulty is that we just do not have enough knowledge about these new technologies or their potential harmful effects to be able to make good judgments. Knowledge about potential health hazards is lacking, and because these technologies have only been around a short time, epidemiological evidence on long term health effects is not available. Our challenge then is to develop new hazard assessment and surveillance methods to deal with emerging technologies. Participative approaches hold promise for successful programs.
Identification and Prevention of Accident Risks through the Development of Self-Analysis-of-Work Competencies among Industrial Workers
Authors: Vasconcelos R. , Lacomblez M.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents the theoretical and methodological principles as well as some results of an action-research project conceived and implemented by work psychologists, in strict co-operation with a group of industrial workers of a medium size metallurgic company. Its objective was the identification and prevention of accident risks through the empowerment of a small group of workers with competencies of ergonomic self-analysis of their work. Worker's practice in real work situations was used as a stimulus for the (re)cognition of work competencies and working conditions by the workers themselves, process that was reinforced by moments of group discussion. All group sessions were recorded on videotape for further analysis. The first results obtained are quite satisfactory: a significant decrease in the number of accidents in the section; transformation proposals formulated by the workers themselves, some of which already implemented; a notorious enrichment of worker's verbalisations about the work situations concerned.
Avoiding Risky Teams in Risky Environments
Authors: Bishop Sheryl L. , Morphew M. Ephimia , Kring Jason P.
Published: January 2012

Data from studies on real-world groups situated in extreme environments provides us insight into the many factors that impact group performance, health and well-being. Unlike simulation studies, the impact of environmental threat, physical hardship, as well as true isolation and confinement have proven to be key factors in individual and group coping. Results from several real world teams will be discussed with the intent of focusing on interpersonal, environmental and individual factors that affected functioning and well-being at both the physiological and psychological levels.
Situation-Adaptive Autonomy: Dynamic Trading of Authority between Human and Automation
Authors: Inagaki Toshiyuki
Published: January 2012

In human-machine systems, it is often assumed implicitly or explicitly, that the human must be at the locus of control and that automation should be always subordinate to the human. Whether the assumption is appropriate can never be examined fully if our discussion is qualitative. This paper shows that quantitative models (especially, probability theoretic models) serve as powerful tools for investigating whether to automate decision and/or action. Following are some observations derived with probabilistic models: (1) Decision and/or action function may be traded between human and automation dynamically in a situation-adaptive manner. (2) There are mathematical conditions for which decision and/or action may be automated and human intervention may not be allowed. Typical examples include Go/NoGo decision-making or a safety-control system with insufficient information under time-criticality. This paper argues that the situation-adaptive autonomy based on quantitative models may serve as one of guidelines for implementing adaptive automation and/or for investigating an automation invocation issue.
Designing Head-Up Displays (HUDs) to Support Flight Path Guidance While Minimizing Effects of Cognitive Tunneling
Authors: Ververs Patricia May , Wickens Christopher D.
Published: January 2012

This study investigates the effects of varying the conformality of the flight path HUD symbology on flight path tracking and cognitive tunneling. Partially conformal and conformal symbology sets were created for the approach/landing (air-based) and taxi (ground-based) phases of flight. The partially conformal approach symbology was a flight director consisting of crosshairs and transitioned into the taxi symbology, which was a plan-view of the runway and taxiway. The conformal approach symbology was a tunnel-in-the-sky followed by runway symbology, which was scene-linked, conformal runway pylons. Twenty pilots flew 25 approaches with each symbology set. The conformal, tunnel-in-the-sky symbology was more effective in supporting the pilots in navigating complex curved approaches than the partially conformal flight director. In addition, flying with the tunnel-in-the-sky also lead to better performance on secondary target detection tasks. On the ground, the conformal symbology set supported landing and taxi navigation tasks with approximately equal efficiency and precision as the partially conformal plan-view symbology. To investigate cognitive tunneling, pilots were introduced to three separate and unanticipated events. Pilots had extremely slow response times to all three events using both the conformal sets. However, trends indicated that when differences existed between the two symbology sets it was the tunnel that lead to suboptimal performance. Analyses revealed that pilots had little need to reference the outside environment to obtain precise flying with the tunnel-in-the-sky symbology and therefore were less likely to detect unexpected events. However, the scene-linked conformal symbology (ground) set supported the scan between the symbology and the environment and led to a trend of faster response times to the unexpected taxiway traffic. Though both symbology sets are considered conformal only the scene-linked symbology set is truly conformal since it has a far-domain counterpart to bind the instrumentation to the scene. We postulate the notion that only truly conformal symbology can combat the effects of cognitive tunneling.
Individual Differences in Development and Applicability of Navigational Knowledge
Authors: Boer Erwin R. , Hirase Soya
Published: January 2012

Wayfinding is a skill we all possess and employ on a highly frequent basis. Yet, we differ greatly in our ability to build accurate representations of the areas through which we travel. This difference manifests itself in the structure of the cognitive maps we develop as well as in the time it takes us to do so. In this paper, we show that good cognitive mappers not only develop more robust and applicable representations, they also do so faster than navigators who develop less integrated and organized cognitive maps. Little is known about the relationship between the cognitive maps that people develop and the rate at which they do so. Focus is generally placed on the type of representation that people develop of an environment and the stages that the representation goes through with repeated exposure. Our data suggests that people are predisposed to develop immediately either a landmark based, route based, or survey type representation. This differs from the well-established stage theory that people's cognitive map progresses from a landmark, to a route, to a survey type representation. Furthermore, it appears that this initial choice in representation is rather stable, as it does not change much with prolonged exposure. We hypothesize that people who initially develop a landmark or route based cognitive map may over time be able to use this representation to generate a survey type map, or use this knowledge as if they had a survey type representation. True survey mappers, however, have the mental equivalent of a map (bird's eye perspective) through which they can mentally navigate. Some people may be able to develop a mental map with extensive training in the strategies that facilitate development of such a mental map, but the ultimate constraints to achieving this are the working memory capability and information processing speed. We hypothesize that the ability to quickly manipulate relatively large amounts of spatial knowledge in working memory affords development of a highly robust, generally applicable, information rich, integrated representations faster than people who are more constrained by their cognitive spatial abilities. Without these inherent tools to process and organize spatial information one may be able to match performance of true survey mapper but at the cost of needing more support and/or time to match their performance level. In this paper, we begin to explore these issues.
Crew Climate and Performance: Use of Group Diagrams Based on Behavioral Ratings
Authors: Parke Bonny , Nord Kirsten , Kanki Barbara , Bianchi Alison
Published: January 2012

A method of depicting crew climate using a group diagram based on behavioral ratings is described. Behavioral ratings were made of twelve three-person professional airline cockpit crews in full-mission simulations. These crews had been part of an earlier study in which captains had been had been grouped into three personality types, based on pencil and paper pre-tests. We found that low error rates were related to group climate variables as well as positive captain behaviors.
Maximum Torque Exertion Capabilities of Korean at Varying Body Postures with Common Hand Tools
Authors: Kim Chol-Hong , Kim Tae-Kwang
Published: January 2012

A laboratory experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of body posture and of different types of common non-powered hand tools on maximum volitional torque exertion capabilities of Korean, Fifteen males and 15 females were participated in the experiment. Each subject exerted maximum volitional torque in 15 different body postures while using five different common non-powered hand tools. Results of the data analysis showed that, for both males and females, the magnitude of torque exertion is significantly affected by the type of tool and posture. Also the result indicated that females exerted only about 51.5% of torque when compared to that of males. This result is different with the general findings in the field of ergonomics that the muscular strength of female is usually 65% to 75% of male. It suggests that application of same profile of muscular strength of female should be carefully considered in oriental countries since females in this region may possess less physical capability compare to that of western females in terms of percentage muscular strength of males. Profiles of maximum torque capabilities of Koreans are provided.
Brain Potentials Associated with Onset of Pursuit Eye Movements to Moving Objects
Authors: Yagi Akihiro , Fujimoto Kiyoshi , Fukuda Hiroko
Published: January 2012

Sixteen subjects sat in a rotating optokinetic drum and were instructed to stare moving vertical stripes inside of the optokinetic drum. Speeds of the stripes were five visual angles (12, 24, 36, 48, 60 deg/s). EEGs and EOGs were measured. EEG epochs were averaged at onset of slow phases (pursuits) of the optokinetic nystagmus (OKN). The positive component of latency of about 100 ms appeared predominantly at the occipital region of 15 subjects in all conditions. The positive component might be the same as the lambda response that appears in EFRP to a stationary object.
Change in Physiological Data for a Filtering Paradigm and a Selective-Set Paradigm
Authors: Fukuzumi Shin'ichi , Arifuku Yoshinori , Imaoka Tatsuro
Published: January 2012

We measured the change of ERP during Filtering Paradigm and Selective-set Paradigm. From experiments using these paradigms, we found P300. For the former stimulus, N1 peak potential in ERP increased and the lead position on the scalp changed by the direction of target stimulus. For the latter stimulus, P1 peak potential in ERP increased by the position of target stimulus. From these results, ERP is useful index to measure the response to human attention positions.
In-Vehicle Auditory Display of Symbolic Information
Authors: Bruce Deborah , Boehm-Davis Deborah A. , Mahach Karen
Published: January 2012

Using the Federal Highway Administration Sign simulation laboratory, 24 participants were presented with roadway sign information using either computer-controlled graphic images or audio recordings. The road signs selected for display contained either symbolic or text-based messages. Following visual or auditory presentation of the information, participants were asked to identify if the displayed message matched a projected sign image. Performance accuracy and recognition times for projected signs were measured.

Overall, driver response time was found to be longer for text-based messages than for symbolic messages but this difference was not affected by the type of display used to present the message. Matching tasks that paired auditory display of sign names with symbolic sign images did not result in longer recognition times or increased errors. Presenting drivers with verbal information to inform them of symbolic road signs was as effective as presenting them with graphic visual images of the signs.
Preliminary Evaluation of the Proposed Sae J2364 15-Second Rule for Accessibility of Route Navigation System Functions while Driving
Authors: Tijerina Louis , Parmer Edwin , Goodman Michael J.
Published: January 2012

A test-track study was conducted to assess the diagnostic properties of SAE J2364, the so called 15-second rule. Ten (10) drivers between the ages of 55 and 69 completed tasks both in a parked vehicle (statically) and while driving (dynamically). They engaged in 15 different tasks, including various destination entry tasks, with four commercially available route guidance systems, manual cell phone dialing, manually tuning an after-market in-dash radio to specific AM and FM stations, and adjusting the HVAC controls in the test vehicle.

Simple linear regression models to predict dynamic task completion time from static task completion time revealed an R2 = 0.39. A model to predict number of lane exceedences from static completion time had an R2 = 0.27. A regression equation to predict lane exceedences from dynamic completion time had an R2 = 0.43.

Classification performance of the 15-second rule was analyzed using criteria based on “degraded performance” defined as 2 or more drivers exhibiting 2 or more lane departures during task execution on the 7.5 mile test track. Where 2 or more drivers had static completion times of greater than approximately 15 seconds, the task would fail the test. In terms of True Positives, all route navigation system destination entry tasks that required visual-manual methods both failed the 15-second rule and were associated with disrupted lanekeeping. In terms of False Negatives, tuning the Clarion after-market radio took less than about 15 seconds for static completion yet was associated with above-threshold disruptions of lanekeeping on the test track. In terms of True Negatives, the HVAC adjustment was the only task which was both completed in less than 15 seconds statically and had no appreciable effect on lanekeeping during the test track trials. Finally, five of the 15 tasks took longer than 15 seconds to complete in a parked vehicle (i.e., statically) yet were not associated with significant disruptions in lanekeeping on the test track.

The results of this preliminary assessment suggest that the 15-second rule, as implemented, has diagnostic sensitivity close to chance guessing. It identified most, though not all, demanding interactions at the expense of numerous false positives. These preliminary findings, together with the observation that the 15-second rule is, in itself, not diagnostic with regard to the locus of a driver distraction effects, suggest that opportunities for improvement or enhancement should be pursued. Recommendations are discussed.
Evaluation of Methods, Approaches and Simulation Quality in the Experimental Evaluation of Car Seat Comfort and Functionality
Authors: Coelho Denis A. , Dahlman Sven
Published: January 2012

This paper presents methodology, approaches and simulation actually used in the context of human factor studies designed to build knowledge on comfort and functionality of car seats. Backgrounds are literature and two own experimental studies. The methodology presented involves comparative studies with variation of one or several seat design factors. Scales for subjective evaluation of seat comfort and functionality, completing questionnaires and interviews are evaluated. Also compared are approaches to the design of sitting trials, involving real or simulated conditions. The simulations are qualified, in terms of what actually works. Physical data collection alternatives, namely, moving and still images and interface pressure data, are also commented upon. Anthropometric and other criteria for the selection of subjects are discussed together with sample size. Alternatives for tasks to be performed by trial persons are also discussed, along with the degree of freedom left to subjects. Alternative designs of standardized driving routes are compared. Driving tests validated the results arrived at in the laboratory tests, with both tests designed with methods and approaches presented in the paper.
Texture Density Effects on Accuracy of Control of Egospeed are Nonlinear
Authors: Cox Eric M. , Dyre Brian P.
Published: January 2012

Knowledge of how the visual system determines the speed of self-motion is necessary for the design of virtual displays that will enhance accurate perception and control of airspeed, lower the incidence of loss of situational awareness and increase pilot performance. Changes in texture density have been shown to bias the perceived speed of moving 2D patterns (Watamaniuk, Grzywacz, & Yuille, 1993) and 3D self-motion or egospeed (Dyre, 1997; Ballard, Roach, and Dyre, 1998), suggesting that visual motion channels that code speed are also sensitive to changes in texture density. This study examined the relationship between display density and performance on a speed control task over a wide range of densities. Observers attempted to maintain constant speed while countering a simulated fore-aft wind disturbance. Overall, participants tended to increase speed (positive errors) over the trial duration for every condition. However, moderate densities produced less error than higher or lower densities. Precision of egospeed control was not affected by variations in density. These results show that texture density is an important parameter to consider in designing virtual displays and that moderate texture density levels may be the most effective for supporting control of speed.
Human Factors in Cued Target Acquisition
Authors: Maltz Masha , Shinar David
Published: January 2012

Target acquisition in military and industrial settings is often augmented by a cueing system, whereby a computer gives advice that can be accepted or rejected by the human observer. Two human factors issues involved with the use of such cuers are: 1) how to present the cue to the observer, and 2) to what degree will the observer use or rely upon the provided information, particularly in cases where the cuer is not wholly reliable. In this paper, we consider both of these issues. Infrared military-type images that were overlaid with cues to suggest target presence were presented to six groups of observers. The observers were informed that the cues were not always correct. We presented several different cue interfaces to our observers. When questioned, the observers indicated a preference for particular cue types. Overall, the observers' opinions about the cue types were reflected in their acquisition results. Observer performance was higher when cued than when not cued. Although the cues were effective, different cue reliability levels did not influence the results to a large degree.
Ergophthalmology at the Turn of the Millenium
Authors: Kovalenko V.
Published: January 2012

The paper is devoted to the problem of human visual activity in modern industrial conditions. Possibilities for increase of visual working capacity and preservation of visual functions when visual load work carrying out in the main professions of the modern industry are discussed.
An Ecological Approach to Human-Machine Systems
Authors: Flach John M.
Published: January 2012

This is the first of three sessions to examine the implications of an ecological approach for interface design. The goal for this session is to consider the broader theoretical implications for an ecological approach to work. In what way is an ecological approach different from classical frameworks for analysis and design of human-machine systems?
Encoding a Model-Based Display with Dynamic Data
Authors: Beltracchi Leo
Published: January 2012

A model-based display of the heat engine cycle for a nuclear power plant is defined and illustrated in terms of the thermodynamic first principles used to design the plant. The model-based display is a modified Rankine Cycle, the basic heat engine cycle for power plants. The display is made from measured process variables and the properties of water and presented on a CRT in iconic form, thereby providing a direct perception of the process. This structure of display design is an example of Rasmussen's means-ends hierarchy; starting with the abstract and ending with the specific display. Encoding the display with dynamic data aids operators in monitoring and interpreting the plant during transients and disturbances. Analytical data on the TMI-2 accident is used to illustrate the dynamic coding of the model-based display. The concepts discussed and illustrated are applicable to fossil and nuclear power plants and to other process industries.
Physiological Response of Operators during Power Tiller Use for Paddy Field Cultivation
Authors: Salokhe V. M. , Mamansari D. U. , Zhang Jianxia
Published: January 2012

Power tillers (single axle, two-wheel hand tractors) are widely used for paddy field cultivation in Thailand. Currently, over one million power tillers are being used as they suit both the economical and physical conditions of paddy farming in developing countries. Controlling these hand tractors while walking behind is often hard work. Safety and health concerns associated with the use of these machines have not been well documented. This study was aimed at evaluating the physical response of operators during various operations by power tillers in paddy field. The most popular power tiller model in Thailand was used for this investigation. Field tests were conducted to determine the physical response of operators while using this machine. The response was assessed through measurement of operator heart rates during different operations. The comfort, working posture and the task were also evaluated. The physical work capacity was established with the help of a bicycle ergometer. The field operations carried out were first-plowing, second-plowing and harrowing. The tillage equipment used were moldboard plow, disc plow and peg tooth harrow. A statistical analysis was conducted to compare the effects of environmental factors and working intensity in each activity and results were compared with the standards. It was observed that the physical response during some of the operations exceeded the physical work capacity of the operators. It was noticed that the excessive physiological response was contributed by power tiller use as well as environmental factors. Working with power tiller in muddy paddy fields in a hot and humid climate also contributed to excessive workload. Surface conditions in the field also had a direct effect on physiological response of the operator. Energy cost during wetland operation was also due to unfavorable working conditions. Some ways to improve the design of the power tiller to make it more comfortable for the operator were suggested.