bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Three CRT Stereoptic Display Concepts
Authors: Shields Nicholas , Kirkpatrick Mark , Malone Thomas B.
Published: July 2017

Three classes of stereoptic displays along with performance data for each type of display are discussed.

The first system is a single camera, split field system requiring a polarized display and viewing glasses. The second concept is a dual camera, full field sensor system with a polarized display requiring high speed shuttered viewers to gain stereopsis. The third system is a dual sensor, full field display projected through two independent display loops onto a Fresnel lens which requires no viewing aids to be worn by the observer.

Performance on laboratory tasks is discussed as well as potential applications for each concept.
System Analysis of the General Deterrence of Driving While Intoxicated
Authors: Summers Leland G. , Harris Douglas H.
Published: July 2017

A system analysis was completed of the general deterrence of driving while intoxicated (DWI). The analysis identified system elements relevant to the DWI decision and assessed the potential of countermeasures that might be employed in general deterrence programs. This paper defines the DWI general deterrence framework, describes the analytical methods employed, and presents the conclusions and recommendations derived from project results. The paper also presents a system model for interrelating factors which influence DWI deterrence and an associated computer-based simulation program for examining DWI deterrence alternatives.
Reaction Times and Derived Information Processing Measures: Limitations of Their Practical Use in Vehicle Operator Screening
Authors: Zwahlen Helmut T. , Baird Michael L.
Published: July 2017

The use of information processing rate (difference between the amount of uncertainty in a choice and simple reaction time situation, in bits, divided by the difference of the corresponding reaction time averages, in seconds) as a driver screening measure from a relevance point of view has been suggested by Fergenson (1971).
Visual Control of Locomotion
Authors: Riemersma J.B.J.
Published: July 2017

Locomotion is the most fundamental behavior of animals and people, since it is prerequisite for almost all other behavior. Perhaps for this reason, research into the scientific problem of how locomotion is possible is rather scarce. The ability to move around in the environment in a more or less predetermined way, is just taken for granted. Only since World War II the first attempts were made to describe technically advanced ways of locomotion, like aircraft steering and driving a car. From the start, two rather different directions have been taken. Scientists with an engineering background have tried to solve the problem in describing the human element in a man-vehicle system by a transfer function of input-to-output variables, without much concern about the process elements inside the human being. Starting with Gibson, another direction was taken by scientists taking perception as their point of departure. Sometimes very complex mathematical descriptions of the visual field during locomotion were developed, without much orientation towards the whole task of locomotion. Much research is still needed to develop an empirically based process-model of locomotion.
On the Roles of Perceived Safety and Security in Transportation Choice
Authors: Richards Larry G. , Jacobson Ira D.
Published: July 2017

To what extent does perceived safety and security influence the amount and pattern of use on public transportation systems? While it is assumed to be a major factor in modal choice, there is little empirical research to show that it is. The major relevant studies are briefly reviewed. Then the results of recent surveys of both users and non-users of public transportation are presented. Perceived safety is discussed in relation to frequency of system use, sex, age, and sources of information about transit crime. The influence of other factors on mode choice are also reported.
Potential Uses and Applications of Saint to the Analysis of Quality Control Systems
Authors: Adams S. Keith , Reddy M. R.
Published: July 2017

Variables affecting human perception, vigilance, and decision-making are important in the design and installation of inspection stations for industrial production systems. The purpose of the research reported in this paper was to apply SAINT to the investigation of the operational and economic effects of factors affecting the performance of industrial inspectors both in detecting defects and in identifying acceptable products. Potential uses of SAINT in relating the results of perceptual and behavioral research to the design of quality control systems are also discussed. It is evident that many currently fragmented but well documented principles and models can be related in a dynamic way through the application of SAINT. It appears that SAINT can be used as a powerful research tool in applied settings to predict and then to evaluate trade-offs among variables affecting the performance of the inspector and of the quality control system as a whole.
Simulator Training Requirements and Effectiveness Study (STRES)
Authors: Cream Bertram W. , Eggemeier F. Thomas , Klein Gary A. , Semple Clarence A. , Caro Paul W. , Seay Dale E.
Published: July 2017

A description is provided of a research study being conducted by the United States Air Force with participation by representatives from the Army and Navy. The basic objectives of this study are to define, collect, analyze and present data, findings and conclusions relevant to the use, effectiveness and cost of aircrew training devices. Study philosophy, approach, difficulties and current status are discussed.
A Correlational Investigation of Variables Associated with the Integration Time of the Eye
Authors: Shedivy David I. , Savage Ricky E.
Published: July 2017

Two studies were conducted in an attempt to demonstrate a relationship between the integration time of the eye (binocular) and motor skills, perception time, lighting preference, and left and right eye integration times. With a combined sample of only 32 subjects, the studies showed a relationship with motor skills and left and right eye integration times.
Secondary Visual Workload Capability with Primary Visual and Kinesthetic-Tactual Displays
Authors: Gilson Richard D. , Burke Michael W. , Jagacinski Richard J.
Published: July 2017

Subjects performed a cross-adaptive tracking task with a visual secondary display and either a visual or a quickened kinesthetic-tactual (K-T) primary display. The quickened K-T display resulted in superior secondary task performance. Comparisons of secondary workload capability with integrated and separated visual displays indicated that the superiority of the quickened K-T display was not simply due to the elimination of visual scanning. When subjects did not have to perform a secondary task, there was no significant difference between visual and quickened K-T displays in performing a critical tracking task.
Multilevel Adaptation in Human Engineering of Information Display Systems
Authors: Lomov B.F. , Venda V.F. , Zabrodin Yu. M.
Published: July 2017

Only two levels of adaptation are used in the most present human engineering projects of information display systems—total and contingent. At the same time experimental and theoretical analysis of the statistical relationships between structures of information display and values of psychological factors of complexity of operators' problem solving shows that three additional levels of adaptation are necessary. There are group, individual and individually—operative levels. Some mathematical methods of evaluation of optimal distribution of information displays between individuals operators, combinations of man with different individual characteristics in one operators group are worked out.
Sampling Behavior of the Human Process Monitor
Authors: Kvålseth Taraid O.
Published: July 2017

This experimental study compared the actual sampling behavior of the human process monitor with that of an optimal dynamic decision model. One experiment involved a passive monitoring task, while another experiment also required the subjects to perform digital control actions in a compensatory control mode. A general finding from both experiments was that the sampling behavior of the subjects tended to differ significantly from the norm provided by the optimal model. Such differences between subjective and normative sampling intervals, the extent and direction of which varied between the different experimental conditions, appeared to be systematic with significant correlations between these intervals for all subjects in the passive monitoring case but for only three of eight control cases.
A Comparison of Selected Work Muscle Strengths
Authors: Herrin G.D. , Keyserling W.M. , Chaffin D.B. , Stobbe T.J.
Published: July 2017

This paper summarizes the isometric volitional strengths measured for a broad cross-section of 1239 industrial workers. A total of 12 different postures were studied representing the variety of lifting, pushing, pulling tasks commonly encountered in manual materials handling industries. These norms should be useful to those engaged in the design of such tasks. In terms of the matching of particular workers to particular jobs, the viability of predicting gross strength capability as a function of worker height, weight, age, gender, and experience (incumbent versus new hire) is examined. The tradeoffs between job specific testing and standardized testing are discussed as they relate to the modeling and prediction of worker/job match. Finally, the classical problem of test battery design and scoring is outlined in relation to these weakly correlated multi-attribute capabilities.
Evaluating the Cost and Effectiveness of Customer Training Methods
Authors: Ellis Stephen H.
Published: July 2017

The talk will deal with alternative methods of training customers to use new telephone services. Various measures of training effectiveness will be discussed with regard to their advantages and limitations. It will be argued that several measures—including cost—must be taken into account when evaluating training approaches. Two field studies will be described that examine several different types of training: (1) “Hands On” (demonstration) vs. “No Hands On” training; (2) Media-based vs. Lecture-based training; (3) “Live” training vs. Self-Instruction. The advantages and disadvantages of each approach will be described in terms of several measures of training effectiveness.
Three Studies of Parameters of Consumer Products: Pillow Softness, Cup Handle Size and Clothing Stripes
Authors: Bennett Corwin A. , Lee Hoon B. , Peterson George P. , Yoon Kwangsun
Published: July 2017

Three experimental studies of consumer products were conducted. A U-shaped relationship between pillow (dis)comfort and softness was found. Thermal discomfort and fatigue were found to be related to the width and the area of the coffee cup handle openings, respectively. While judgments of people's height and weight were affected by vertical and horizontal clothing stripes, judgmental accuracy was so high as to negate any practical benefits.
Failure to Design for People—A Lack of Impact of Ergonomics is Still Seen Today
Authors: Cochran David J. , Riley Michael W.
Published: July 2017

The lack of impact of ergonomics on the design of many modern items is seen every day. This paper examines examples as evidence of a lack of consideration of ergonomics in design. Because many examples are examined, the orientation is toward a visual presentation, accompanied by a discussion of different methods of categorizing design faults which are ergonomic in nature.
The Influence of Government on Human Factors Research and Development
Authors: Meister David
Published: July 2017

In order to examine the interrelationships among participants in the Human Factors (HF) Research and Development (R&D) process, questionnaires soliciting information about research practices were sent to contractors, government laboratory managers and HF practitioners in industry. Although a majority of respondents appear to be satisfied with the way in which HF research is conducted, a sizeable minority have serious reservations about that process.
Perturbation of Induced Rotation as an Index of Pattern Structure
Authors: Ward Frank , Dingus Thomas , Dingus Joellen , Jones Richard , Palmer Gary
Published: July 2017

Most previous attempts to quantify the organizational complexity of visual stimuli have focussed upon stimulus attributes rather than on the perceptual consequences of stimulus processing. We believe that it is more profitable to emphasize perceptual effects and have developed a methodology whereby the smoothness of induced rotation is used to quantify the organizational structure of geometric figures. Our subjects were presented with two-dimensional perspective views of figures in which the azimuth was successively changed. When the tachistoscopic presentation times ranged from 60 to 100 msec, smooth rotation was always perceived for azimuth orders of 0°, 15°, 30°, 30°, 15°, 0°. When a 15° azimuth view was interposed between the two 30° views, an irregularity in rotation was apparent if the presentation duration exceeded a critical value. We used this value as an index of structural detail. Our figures were computer-generated plots of stacked cubes that were produced in either shaded or outline patterns. Subjects viewed two cycles of rotation of either shaded (textured) or outline figures then judged whether the induced rotation was smooth or interrupted. We found that outline figures generally required longer interposition durations than the more solid patterns for rotation to appear interrupted. It seemed as though structural detail, such as texture, provided more information for induced rotation thereby accentuating any flaws in the smoothness of movement.
Stimulus-Response Incompatibility: Extra Processing Stages versus Response Competition
Authors: Rogers Steven P.
Published: July 2017

The extra processing time required by incompatible S-R arrays has been explained in two ways: an increased number of processing stages or response competition from the compatible response. The additive factor method was employed, combining an S-R compatibility factor with a known response competition factor (a spatial Stroop task). The relationship between these two factors was shown to be an additive one, indicating that the two variables have their loci in (at least) two separate stages. This outcome is seen as persuasive evidence that longer reaction times for incompatible responses result from extra processing stages, rather than from response competition.
Timesharing, Ideomotor Compatibility, and Automaticity
Authors: Greenwald Anthony G.
Published: July 2017

This research concerns timesharing, the simultaneous performance of decision responses, and ideomotor (IM) compatibility, an arrangement in which the stimuli for a decision task resemble closely the stimuli generated as feedback from performing their required responses (Greenwald, 1970). (An illustration of IM compatibility is saying a word in response to hearing it.) IM compatibility is a special case of stimulus-response (S-R) compatibility, which is the more general category of task arrangements in which stimulus-response assignments are such as to facilitate the choice process. The present research explored the special characteristics of IM compatibility by examining timesharing efficiency for S-R compatible tasks that possess IM compatibility and ones that lack it.
Compatibility and Laterality Effects in Directional Information Displays
Authors: Laxar Kevin
Published: July 2017

Stimulus-response (S-R) compatibility effects were examined in a series of experiments investigating mental representations of the directions “right” and “left”. In a simple word-picture verification task, both laterality and S-R compatibility showed strong effects using right-handed subjects. Displays with the term “right” took less time to verify than those with the term “left”, and compatible manual responses were faster than the incompatible. When the task was made more complex, no compatibility effect was found. In two picture verification tasks, laterality effects did not appear but the compatibility effects remained strong. Finally, a similar task was modified to eliminate the S-R compatibility effect, and the right-left directionality effect once again emerged. These results are discussed in terms of the cognitive processes involved in interpreting the spatial terms and in mapping the spatial codes for response.
Stabilization and Task Definition in a Performance Test Battery
Authors: Jones Marshall B.
Published: July 2017

Most tasks show practice effects with repeated administrations, effects that may appear in the group mean, the variance among subjects, or the correlations over subjects among trials or repeated testings. Fortunately, there comes a point in many tasks after which practice no longer produces changes in performance; as we will put it, the task stabilizes. Stabilization in this sense is a key phenomenon for performance testing, the prediction of individual behavior, and the theory of personality. It is also desirable that a task be well-defined, that is, that the average correlation among stabilized trials be high (greater than .80). The paper focuses on differential stability, that is, constancy in the positions of individual subjects relative to one another from one trial to the next. Instability or differential change over a set of consecutive trials may appear either within that set of trials (local change) or between the set and other tasks or preceding trials on the sane task (general change). Of the two forms of differential stability or change the latter, general change, is much the more important. The paper concludes with a brief summary of stabilization and task definition in ten tasks currently under consideration for inclusion in a performance test battery for environmental research.
Statistical Tests for Differential Stability
Authors: Bittner Alvah C.
Published: July 2017

This paper evaluates three methods for assessing “differential stability” These methods are Graphical Analysis, Early vs. Late Correlational ANOVA, and the Lawley Test of Correlational Equality. It is recommended that Graphical Analysis be the method of first choice with the Early vs. Late method utilized only where there is a need for formal confirmation.
Development, Standardization, and Experimental Application of a Human Performance Measurement System
Authors: Fletcher Dorothy E.
Published: July 2017

A human performance measurement system is described in terms of apparatus components, mini- and micro-computer control of test administration and data analysis, and experimental applications. At present, computer programs have been tested to administer and score twenty five performance tests, which were selected, modified, and/or developed to assess relatively independent perceptual, memory, cognitive, and psychomotor abilities. In the first experimental use of the system, six subjects were administered different subgroups of from three to five tests throughout one or both of two hyperbaric exposures while breathing normoxic helium. The first dive was to 1200 fsw (equivalent feet of sea water); the second, to 1600 fsw. In the second experiment, test standardization is proceeding with a group of young, adult males and with a larger and more heterogeneous adult group. Under normal laboratory conditions, equivalent forms of these tests are being compared with marker tests. The third experiment evaluates the effects upon an individual subject's pattern of abilities of changes in composition of inspired gases at sea level, in this case, changes in concentrations of N2O and O2. Future directions of development and application of this system are discussed.
Repeated Assessment of Stress, Mood and Performance Changes Resulting from Exposure to Vessel Motions at Sea
Authors: Pepper Ross L. , Wiker Steven F.
Published: July 2017

A preliminary study was conducted with six experienced male Coast Guardsmen and a small monohull vessel (95' Coast Guard Patrol Boat) to evaluate the feasibility of a proposed experimental paradigm as well as the sensitivity of an array of performance, physiological and affective state measures to vessel motions and motion sickness. Performance measures (e.g. Navigation Plotting, Critical Tracking, Visual Search, Complex Auditory Monitoring, Grammatical Reasoning, etc.), physiological measures (e.g., motion sickness severity, stress hormone excretion, urine output and specific gravity), and affective state measures (e.g., mood dimensions) were sampled continuously for eight hours each day for three consecutive days. All variables were compared between control (dockside, engines running) and steaming conditions (four-hour octagonal steaming patterns were repeated twice each eight hour day). Results show all physiological measures examined to be sensitive to the Influence of vessel motions or motion sickness. Motion sickness severity was found to rise and fall depending upon the encounter direction of the vessel to the movement of the primary swell; steaming courses with head or bow seas produced significantly greater degrees of illness than did courses possessing stern or quartering seas. Vessel motions led to significant increases in crew fatigue and changes in concentration. Some performance tasks (e.g. Navigation Plotting and Visual Search) were degraded at sea despite the potential contribution of practice effects, habituation to stress and motivation to perform. The Implications of such factors are discussed In terms of past, current and future performance assessment paradigms utilizing repeated testing.
An Heuristic Approach to Work Analysis
Authors: Bateman Robert P.
Published: July 2017

Nine experienced pilots served as subjects in an experiment designed to evaluate differences between multifunction keyboards by measuring the objective performances of the subjects. In order to achieve a high degree of external (or content) validity, the test was designed to closely simulate a series of tasks that a pilot might encounter during actual flight. Subjects performed tracking tasks and used the keyboards for secondary tasks. Measurements of tracking parameters and of performance time and errors using the keyboards were taken. The results showed that no single variable consistently reflected changes in task difficulty. The observed tendency of subjects to employ different, changing strategies during the multiple task performance led to a tentative hypothesis that work was a composite of all of the parameters. A regression analysis was used to develop an equation with weighting coefficients for the parameters. The equation was found to be in agreement with subjective performance evaluations.
The Event-Related Brain Potential as a Selective Index of Display Load
Authors: Isreal Jack B. , Wickens Christopher D. , Donchin Emanuel
Published: July 2017

As an index of task workload, the possible advantages of the event-related brain potential (ERP) over traditional secondary task techniques and psychophysiological measures are described and previous efforts to validate the use of ERPs in this context are discussed. A series of six experiments is then reported in which the effects of tracking difficulty and display-monitoring load manipulations on secondary-task reaction time and ERP measures are compared. The results are interpreted within the framework of a “multiple reservoir” conception of processing resources and task workload.
Using a Formal Grammatical Description of User Actions to Aid Design
Authors: Reisner Phyllis
Published: July 2017

In both linguistics and computer science, formal grammars are used to describe languages precisely. Formal grammatical description has not generally been applied in the human factors area, which traditionally draws on behavioral science for its methodology. This paper illustrates, by means of a detailed example, how formal description can be used in human factors.
Development of Display Design and Command Usage Guidelines for Spacelab Experiment Computer Applications
Authors: Dodson Daniel W. , Shields Nicholas L.
Published: July 2017

Individual Spacelab experimenters are responsible for developing their CRT display formats and interactive command scenarios for payload crew monitoring and control of experiment operations via the Spacelab Data Display System (DDS). In order to enhance crew training and flight operations, it was important to establish some standardization of the crew/experiment interface among different experiments by providing standard methods and techniques for data presentation and experiment commanding via the DDS. In order to establish optimum usage guidelines for the Spacelab DDS, the capabilities and limitations of the hardware and Experiment Computer Operating System design had to be considered. Since the operating system software and hardware ware design had already been established, the Display and Command Usage Guidelines were constrained to the capabilities of the existing system design. Empirical evaluations were conducted on a DDS simulator to determine optimum operator/system interface utilization of the system capabilities. Display parameters such as information location, display density, data organization, status presentation and dynamic update effects were evaluated in terms of response times and error rates.
Interactive Technology: The Role of Passivity
Authors: Thimbleby Harold
Published: July 2017

Technology comes in many forms, in particular ‘interactive’ and ‘not-so interactive’. Not all so-called interactive systems are interactive technology: they are not ‘good’ enough. In contrast to typical modern technology, interactive technology is responsibly passive and thereby reduces the opportunity for its users to form incorrect or misguided models of its operation. Passivity is not solely a property of the system design but is relative to the needs and actions of the users of the technology; it depends on the skills, expectations and understanding of the users. As a guide to implementors, passivity also reduces their opportunities to create systems that are obscure to users. It is suggested that a ‘parallel user-interface’, which is outlined, meets the requirements of interactive technology.
Group Decision-Making Effectiveness as a Function of Physical Arrangement
Authors: Hendrick Hal W.
Published: July 2017

After viewing the first 28 minutes of the film, Twelve Angry Men, 60 groups of eight male students each were randomly assigned to one of six different physical seating arrangements. Each student first made a private ranking of the order in which he thought the jurors in a murder trial would change their vote from “guilty” to “not guilty”. Group members then worked toward a consensual ranking. The consensual rankings of the groups placed in a circle arrangement with no table were found more accurate (p < .05) than those for groups placed in the other five arrangements, all of which utilized work tables. Potential implications for conference room design and furnishings were noted, along with suggestions for follow-on research.
The Effect of Time of Day and Time of Year on Thermal Comfort
Authors: Rohles Frederick H.
Published: July 2017

In order to determine if affective responses to cool, neutral, and warm temperatures were related to the season of the year and the time of day, 108 subjects were exposed in groups of six (3 males and 3 females) for 3 hours to three temperatures 20.0°C, 25.6°C and 31.7°C at 50%rh during the morning (0900–1200) afternoon (1300–1600) and evening (1800–2100) in the summer and winter. The subjects were sedentary and wore similar clothing; a 9 category Thermal Sensation ballot and a 7-pair semantic differential scale for measuring Thermal Comfort were administered every half hour during the three hour exposure. An analysis of variance showed that the main effects, Time of Day, Sex and Season were not significant and only Temperature and Voting were significant; both measures showed significant Season x Temperature interactions. Basically, the 20.0°C environment was judged to be more comfortable in the summer than in the winter and the 31.7°C environment was judged to be more comfortable in the winter than in the summer. The seasonal findings are opposite to those found in recent research and suggest that different temperature criteria for thermal comfort should be considered for summer and winter conditions.
Towards a Rest Allocation Scheme for Sequential Static Muscle Exertions
Authors: Freivalds Andris , Lee Myun W. , Chaffin Don B.
Published: July 2017

Static muscle contractions when prolonged or frequently repeated result in discomfort, tremor, and coordination problems. Surface electrode EMG measurements have been used to establish a method for objectively assessing the functional state of a muscle during both sustained and frequently repeated static contractions.

This paper presents the development of a Markov model of motor unit behavior during such muscle contractions. Validation studies are described using surface electrode EMG's as the primary response measure. The results indicate a simple stochastic model is reasonable to describe motor unit behavior in sequential static exertions. The output of the resulting model is used to predict rest allowances for such exertions.
MORT: A Department of Energy System Safety Technique
Authors: Knox Norman W. , Boone Mark P.
Published: July 2017

MORT (Management Oversight and Risk Tree) is the dynamic system safety concept and methodology that is central to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) safety program. This paper discusses basic MORT concepts and methods and explains MORT's use as an evaluative analytical tool; change analysis, barrier analysis, and unwanted energy flow are treated.
Noise Measurement and Control for Timber Harvesting Machines
Authors: Plummer Ralph W. , Fisher Edward L. , Gochenour Donald L.
Published: July 2017

Society's awareness of Safety and Health problems has forced industry to make a concerted effort to correct situations harmful to its employees. One area receiving attention today is the excessive amount of noise that some workers are being exposed to. Timber harvesting is an industry in which such a noise problem exists. This paper presents a review of pertinent past research results and gives a methodology for measuring and controlling noise in a timber harvesting environment. Pilot data was collected to substantiate validity of the methodology with results indicating that there was danger of hearing loss on nearly all of the machines observed. Most equipment manufacturers are aware of the problem and are trying to reduce noise on new machines. However, many older machines must be fitted with control devices if they are to be considered safe.
The Effects of Driving Experience on Objective Measures of Driving Performance
Authors: Attwood Dennis A.
Published: July 2017

The experiment described herein was conducted to develop a method of predicting driver ability based on objective measures of driving performance.

Fifteen subjects drove an instrumented vehicle in live traffic on two-lane and multi-lane road sections in and around the Toronto area. Eight of the subject drivers had at least five years driving experience and seven of them had less than two thousand miles driving experience.

On selected portions of the road course, subjects were instructed to maintain certain speeds or lanes. During these periods raw data were collected on vehicle velocity, lane position, steering wheel position, and accelerator pedal position. Using off-line computer programs the data were transformed into a number of descriptive statistics which were then analyzed using univariate and multivariate statistical techniques.

Results indicated that even though univariate analyses were generally unsuccessful in differentiating between the groups of experienced and inexperienced drivers, successful discrimination was achieved with combinations of variables.

Results suggest that it could be possible to employ on-line monitoring devices to determine whether a driver is capable of a minimum level of driving performance. Implications for the use of such a device in driver licensing and education are discussed.
Movement Reproduction as a Function of Efferent Cues and cognitive Plans
Authors: Kane Richard M. , Christ Richard E.
Published: July 2017

The reproduction of linear movements was studied as a function of the availability of efferent cues and a cognitive plan during criterion movements and of efferent cues during test movements. Nine females were used as subjects in each cell of a between-subject factorial design. The presence of a cognitive plan during or as a result of the criterion movement lead to more accurate movement reproduction than when a plan was not available. If efferent cues were present during a criterion movement, then the presence of efferent cues during the test movement facilitated accurate movement reproduction. These results have implications both for theories of motor control and for applied motor learning and control situations.
Prediction of Performance in Motor Skills Training
Authors: Becker Richard J. , Williges Beverly H. , Williges Robert C. , Koonce Jefferson M.
Published: July 2017

Williges, Williges, and Savage (1979) demonstrated the utility of a multiple-regression approach for assigning individuals to training alternatives. Average training time savings of 50% were obtained when the lower predicted score was used to assign students to fixed-difficulty or adaptive training conditions to learn a two-dimensional tracking task. The present study extends this work by developing prediction models for a real-world training task. Regression models were developed to predict performance on several flight manuevers using the ATC-610 Flight Trainer. One hundred VPI undergraduates and 100 USAF cadets, with an equal number of males and females, served as subjects.
Actual vs Simulated Equipment for Aircraft Maintenance Training: Cost Implications of the Incremental vs the Unique Device
Authors: Vestewig Richard E. , Eggemeier F. Thomas
Published: July 2017

Life cycle cost estimates were developed for use of simulated test equipment vs actual test equipment in a maintenance training program of the type used for current advanced fighter aircraft. Previous life cycle cost comparisons had not explicitly considered the cost implications of procurement and support of a unique training device vs an incremental device. This effort included the unique vs the incremental device factor. Total estimated fifteen year costs for simulated equipment trainers were significantly lower than comparable estimates for actual equipment trainers. The results indicate that the cost implications of a unique device vs an incremental device are important determinants of both acquisition and support cost estimates and should be considered fully in future life cycle costing efforts.
Target Discriminability in Complex Search Situations
Authors: Bloomfield John R. , Wald Jerry , Smith Deborah A.
Published: July 2017

Stimuli from Bloomfield's (1979) embedded-target visual search study were used in a series of experiments. The targets differed in color mixture from the nontargets. Target discriminability was measured in several ways: by limiting exposure time, by optical blurring and by introducing neutral density filters. The discriminability measurements were compared to the previously-obtained data in order to discover the best predictor of search performance.
Civilian Anthropometry Data Bases
Authors: Van Cott Harold P.
Published: July 2017

A brief history of the development of anthropometric data bases is described in summary form, including folk norms and early anthropometric surveys, military anthropometric surveys, comprehensive and specialized U.S. civilian surveys, civilian surveys in other nations, and recent proposed research at the National Bureau of Standards (NBS). Discussion and important references are provided for those interested readers/users who are new to the field of anthropometry.
Software-User Interface Evaluation: Methodology and Tools
Authors: Cordes Richard E.
Published: July 2017

This paper describes several approaches for the evaluation of software-user interface. First, a software-user interface test (SUIT) was developed as an aid in the discrimination between acceptable and unacceptable interface. This test also provided a usability profile of software through the examination of component scales. The point-biserial correlation between the test items and the criterion was .8633 (p ≤ .005) indicating a high degree of predictive validity. Another methodology discussed involved the evaluation of software through the development of user interface models. A model of an interface was developed and ways of improving the interface efficiency were analyzed. A method was also presented for finding the optimal number of questions per panel given certain display and user characteristics.
Application of Preference Tree Methodology to Choice Behavior in a AAA Supervisory Control Task
Authors: Hale Chris , Ward Sharon
Published: July 2017

An attempt was made to extend a model of preference, known as elimination-by-aspects (Tversky, 1972), to situations involving active search for sequentially available information of varying value. Subjects were instructed to choose the most appropriate one of three possible operating modes in a task simulating supervisory decisions in a AAA system. The data failed to support the EBA model. Instead of searching aspects associated with each alternative in a non-compensatory fashion, as predicted by the model, subjects searched the information set in a compensatory manner. Failure of the model is discussed in terms of three points (a) subject control of information search, (b) sequential information availability, and (c) variability in the value of information across conditions. Consideration of these three points leads to the conclusion that the usefulness of the EBA approach is limited to situations in which the subject has all relevant information available to him before consideration of alternatives.
Motorcycle Headlighting: Experimental and Computer Simulation Comparisons of Nighttime Visibility Distances Obtained with Various Headlamp Beams
Authors: Mortimer Rudolf G. , Satrun Eugene A.
Published: July 2017

The distances at which a target could be identified by five motorcyclists using various headlamp beams, at night, were measured. The target was positioned either at the right or at the left of the lane. A typical Japanese symmetrical low beam, a European asymmetrical low beam, a U.S. asymmetrical low beam and two high beams were used in the test. The results were compared with predictions of the identification distances made by a computer simulation program.

There were significant differences in mean target identification distances due to the beams and target positions. The simulation program closely predicted the low beam visibility distances, but overestimated those obtained with the high beams.
Map Interpretation and Geographic Orientation during Nap-of-the-Earth Flight
Authors: Rogers Steven P.
Published: July 2017

NOE flight is flight as close to the earth's surface as vegetation or obstacles will permit, varying course, airspeed, and altitude in order to take maximum advantage of the cover and concealment offered by terrain, vegetation, and man-made features. Special topographic display systems are under consideration for use in navigation during NOE flight because this is one of the most demanding tasks ever required of an aviator. NOE navigation requires continuous geographic orientation by identifying terrain features along the route and correlating them with features depicted on the map. Even under the best of conditions, navigation at NOE altitudes is a formidable task due to the pilot's limited view of the surrounding terrain. The features that mask the enemy's view of the helicopter also serve to mask the pilot's view of navigational checkpoints. The difficulty of the navigational requirements is increased greatly when the pilot is unfamiliar with the terrain, when visibility is degraded by darkness or atmospheric conditions, and when adequate maps are unavailable. Despite these adversities, aviators must be able to plan and execute their missions precisely in both time and space and relate their momentary position to their planned route with great accuracy.
Anthropometry and Strength Characteristics of Low Coal Miners with Respect to Sex and Age
Authors: Morrissey S.J. , Burford C.L. , Caddel K. , Ayoub M.M.
Published: July 2017

A battery of general anthropometric measures and selected isometric strength measures have been made on a sample of male and female low coal miners in the United States (low coal refers to coal mines in which the coal seam and, thus, tunnel heights are less than 48 inches).

In comparison to selected military and civilian anthropometric surveys, both the male and female low coal miners showed significantly greater body circumferences on similar measures. Analysis of the isometric strength data showed both the male and female low coal miners to have significantly lower back strengths than a reference industrial population. Male miners had significantly greater standing leg strengths than the reference population. These differences can be attributed to the occupational and postural demands present in low coal mining.
Effects of Observation on Behavior in Applied Research
Authors: Kohl George , Flamm Lois E.
Published: July 2017

Human factors investigators evaluate the “usability” of equipment and systems by observing people interacting with them. The concern here is that the behavior in these evaluations may be altered due to observation. This misgiving stems from findings of social psychology studies in “social facilitation” (i.e., the facilitation or inhibition of performance due to the presence of an audience), and it is distinct from experimenter bias considerations in that the effects cannot be eliminated by the employment of “blind” or unbiased experimenters (Cottrell, 1972). Although research in this area is principally directed at theoretical issues, it has implications for the validity of applied research in general. Therefore, an experiment was patterned after studies in this literature to determine whether the presence of an audience would distort behavior in an applied setting.
Please Remain Seated: Seat Designs to Help Retain Passengers during Emergency Stops
Authors: Jacobs H. , Sussman D. , Abernethy C. , Plank G. , Stoklosa J. , Hanking J.R.
Published: July 2017

A series of experiments were conducted to identify the factors that could aid passengers in remaining seated during an emergency deceleration of an automated transit system. Sixty subjects, representative of three anthropometric levels, underwent various levels of deceleration in an instrumented vehicle controlled by an automated braking system. The independent variables examined were seat orientation and tilt, seat contour and covering, footrests and armrests, and rate of change of deceleration (jerk). The primary dependent variables were the deceleration levels at which subjects moved from sensors that were imbedded in the experimental seat. Movies were taken and subject comfort ratings were also obtained.

The major results indicated that forward-facing subjects sustained higher deceleration levels without being dislodged than subjects sitting at small orientation angles of 15° and 30°. A foot-rest contributed to greater retention of forward-facing subjects as did a seat tilt of 12° back. The maximum deceleration level for retention of 84 percent of the forward-facing passengers sitting on a seat tilted back 12° and using a footrest was 0.36 g.

Jerk was found not to be a factor in dislodging subjects during the onset of the emergency stop. It was, however, a factor in the perception of comfort. Subjects reported being more uncomfortable at higher jerk levels. Providing a warning to the passengers of an impending stop may aid them in sustaining higher deceleration levels.
Finding a Needle in a Haystack When You've Never Seen a Needle: A Human Factors Analysis of Seti
Authors: Blake Tyler , Baird John C.
Published: July 2017

An analysis of some key human factors aspects of NASA's SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) program is presented. The results of some preliminary studies in human discrimination and recognition of patterns embedded in gaussian noise fields where the nature of the signal is unknown are discussed. A strategy for employing human pattern recognition capabilities in the SETI context, or in similar applications where signal attributes cannot be determined apriori, is offered.
Required Performance Levels for Autocueing Devices
Authors: Fulkerson David C.
Published: July 2017

Acquisition of tactical targets embedded in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery was examined in this study. Experienced radar operators saw static scenes with either nine/five, two, or zero possible targets annotated, representing the application of three hypothetical autocueing devices and a no-autocueing baseline condition. In the autocueing conditions, the true target was always annotated, along with a variable number of false alarms, based upon the sophistication of the hypothesized autocuer. With time and probabilty performance measures taken, a significant improvement in target acquisition behavior was achieved only with the most sophisticated autocuer. This was most evident for the more difficult target types.
Critical Issues in Enhancing Team Performance in Computer-Based Systems
Authors: Williges Robert C. , Williges Beverly H.
Published: July 2017

Many complex, computer-based systems are characterized as requiring successful team rather than individual performance. In systems such as combat information centers, air traffic control centers, and aircrew cockpits, the various individuals must coordinate their performance with other individuals in a relatively rigid task and communication structure in order to complete their mission successfully. Given the widespread existence of requirements for team functioning, it is surprising that the research literature dealing with team performance is so limited.
Operational Performance Measures for Carrier Landing: Development and Application
Authors: Brictson Clyde A. , Breidenbach Steven T. , Stoffer Gerald R.
Published: July 2017

Fifteen years of carrier landing performance criteria development and applications are described. An offshoot of the research resulted in the emergence of an automated performance measurement and appraisal system designed to enhance the effectiveness of night carrier landing.
Development and Inflight Testing of a Multi-Media Course for Instructing Navigation for Might Nap-of-the-Earth Flight
Authors: Smith Bruce A.
Published: July 2017

This paper describes the development and evaluation of a course of instruction to train Army aviators to navigate during flight operations at nap-of-the-earth (NOE) altitudes at night. The course was developed to provide instruction in map interpretation and terrain analysis using both unaided (naked eye) and aided (Night Vision Goggles) vision, and incorporated lecture, textual, and visual materials. Evaluation of the course was carried out in the UH-1 helicopter flying at NOE altitudes at night. Results of the evaluation indicated that a group of student pilots who received instruction in the course navigated at night along an NOE route with significantly more accuracy than did a control group. Implications of these results for training NOE night navigation are discussed.