Human Factors Evaluation of the Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System in an Operational Environment

1980 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tomme R. Actkinson
Author(s):  
Kristopher Korbelak ◽  
Jeffrey Dressel ◽  
David Band ◽  
Jennifer Blanchard

Automated systems are not only commonplace but often are a necessity to complete highly specialized tasks across many operational environments. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) aims to enhance human performance and increase safety through the acquisition and implementation of various types of automated systems. The Human Performance Branch (HPB) at TSA supports this aim through research on human factors that influence interactions with automation. Knowledge gained from HPB efforts informs TSA of the automated systems that will best suit worker needs, how to integrate these systems into the general workflow, and the relevant human factors that will support proper system use and, ultimately, enhance human performance. This discussion panel reviews a theoretical framework the TSA can use to guide assessment of multiple drivers of human performance in a consistent and standardized fashion as well as several TSA projects investigating three categories of human factors known to influence performance with automation – human (i.e., individual differences, cognitive constraints), context (e.g., organizational influence, environment), and system characteristics (e.g., type of automation) – and how those factors can be accounted for in the operational environment.


Author(s):  
Antonio B. Carvalhais ◽  
Donald I. Tepas ◽  
Michael J. Paley

The present evaluation was conducted to assess whether crews can cope and adapt to a restricted living and work environment. Two United States Coast Guard small boat stations with similar environmental conditions, mission profiles, and workload levels were selected for this evaluation. At one station, shore-side facilities were replaced with a 50-foot live-aboard boat (NORCREW). The second station, maintained shore-side facilities (COMP). Survey and daily log data on human factors variables, which have been used to predict adaptation to work environments, were collected from 18 crew members. Analysis of these data did not reveal any significant adverse psychophysiological effects associated with the live-aboard concept. Data revealed time-of-day effects consistent with conventional thought and chronobiological theory which leads the authors to conclude that the live aboard concept does not appear to disrupt circadian cycles. Overall, the consistent failure to detect any differences between NORCREW and COMP on human factors variables clearly suggests that further consideration of this concept is warranted.


Author(s):  
T. M. Fraser

A model of a man-machine-environment complex is presented in which it is shown that each man-machine system defines for itself an operational environment from within the ecosphere. It is pointed out that this model has application to all design for human use, and to operation of man-machine systems. Its specific application to recreation is shown in relation to three areas—considerations of system safety in recreation; responsibilities and liabilities of manufacturers of recreational equipment; and responsibilities of researchers, human factors engineers, and those who supply manufacturers with operational design data. It is argued that safety management requires an epidemiological rather than a therapeutic or piecemeal approach, and that until safety is considered systematically as an objective in the design and operation of a man-machine-environment complex, recreational or otherwise, we cannot attain the optimal.


2016 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 33-38 ◽  
Author(s):  
Isaac Munene

Abstract. The Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS) methodology was applied to accident reports from three African countries: Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. In all, 55 of 72 finalized reports for accidents occurring between 2000 and 2014 were analyzed. In most of the accidents, one or more human factors contributed to the accident. Skill-based errors (56.4%), the physical environment (36.4%), and violations (20%) were the most common causal factors in the accidents. Decision errors comprised 18.2%, while perceptual errors and crew resource management accounted for 10.9%. The results were consistent with previous industry observations: Over 70% of aviation accidents have human factor causes. Adverse weather was seen to be a common secondary casual factor. Changes in flight training and risk management methods may alleviate the high number of accidents in Africa.


2014 ◽  
Vol 4 (2) ◽  
pp. 113-121 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stephanie Chow ◽  
Stephen Yortsos ◽  
Najmedin Meshkati

This article focuses on a major human factors–related issue that includes the undeniable role of cultural factors and cockpit automation and their serious impact on flight crew performance, communication, and aviation safety. The report concentrates on the flight crew performance of the Boeing 777–Asiana Airlines Flight 214 accident, by exploring issues concerning mode confusion and autothrottle systems. It also further reviews the vital role of cultural factors in aviation safety and provides a brief overview of past, related accidents. Automation progressions have been created in an attempt to design an error-free flight deck. However, to do that, the pilot must still thoroughly understand every component of the flight deck – most importantly, the automation. Otherwise, if pilots are not completely competent in terms of their automation, the slightest errors can lead to fatal accidents. As seen in the case of Asiana Flight 214, even though engineering designs and pilot training have greatly evolved over the years, there are many cultural, design, and communication factors that affect pilot performance. It is concluded that aviation systems designers, in cooperation with pilots and regulatory bodies, should lead the strategic effort of systematically addressing the serious issues of cockpit automation, human factors, and cultural issues, including their interactions, which will certainly lead to better solutions for safer flights.


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