Articles tagged with Ergonomics
New research examines how users perceive campus emergency alerts, finding that personality traits such as neuroticism and agreeableness affect attitudes towards the system. The study suggests differentiating between serious and nonserious threats to maintain public trust and safety.
Researchers found usability problems with popular activity trackers among older adult users, including low color contrast, small fonts, and inaccurate step count tracking. The study suggests that companies should market their products directly to this demographic to improve health management.
Researchers found that individuals with the Met/Met genotype of the COMT gene performed better in a simulated air-defense task than those without this genotype. The study suggests that matching training to individuals based on their cognitive abilities could be more important than other factors in personnel selection.
The MauroNewMedia workstations address critical ergonomic issues, mitigating repetitive-motion injuries, improving airflow, and reducing noise. The award recognizes user-centered design principles that influenced every phase of development.
A new auto steering device, proposed by Rene Guerster, aims to reduce the risk of accidents caused by sudden turns. The device, which uses computer-mediated steering, would enable drivers to steer around obstacles without releasing the wheel.
A study found that people who are overconfident, introverted, or women are more susceptible to phishing attacks. The results showed a disconnect between confidence and actual skill, with many participants misclassifying phishing emails.
Researchers developed option awareness theory to aid decision-making in complex situations. Studies showed that incorporating visual comparison of options increased correct responses by 67% while maintaining similar processing times.
A recent study predicts a sharp spike in computer-related injuries among medical workers due to poor office layouts and improper use of computer devices. The most commonly reported repetitive strain injuries were neck, shoulder, and upper and lower back pain, affecting nearly half of the female doctors and over 40% of male doctors.
A study by Oregon State University researchers found that young surgical residents made major mistakes nearly half the time during simulated gall bladder removals due to distractions in the operating room. The analysis showed that young surgeons, particularly those in the afternoon, struggled with interruptions and conversations.
Researchers found that IVRs with male voices tend to be perceived as more usable than those with female voices, but they are not considered more trustworthy. The study encourages designers to consider voice characteristics when developing future systems to improve user experience.
Researchers found that older adults are open to robot assistance with some daily living tasks, such as housekeeping and laundry, but prefer human assistance with others. The study highlights the need for further research on how robots can support older adults in living independently.
A two-part special issue of the Journal of Cognitive Engineering and Decision Making is available online, highlighting recent CEDM-related research and practice in various application domains. The issue features articles on psychological principles, human-technology interactions, and cognitive engineering methodological enhancements.
This special issue of Ergonomics in Design highlights the challenges of balancing economic pressures with human attention limits. The articles explore techniques to prevent or mitigate driver distraction through design, education, and legislation, as well as strategies for outreach and policy development.
Engineers at NC State designed a new handle that reduces ulnar deviation and minimizes the risk of dropping infant car seats. The angled design allows for better grip and lifts are easier to perform.
A recent study published by Dietrich Manzey et al. investigated the performance consequences of advanced automated navigation support for surgeons. The results show that navigated-control assistance provides benefits for patient safety and surgical outcome, but also slows performance, increases workload, and reduces situation awareness.
Four middle-school students developed an innovative device, the Posture Pad, that vibrates or emits a tone when used incorrectly, aiming to prevent musculoskeletal problems. The study found 75% of students and 80% of office workers sat with incorrect posture, highlighting the need for ergonomic solutions.
A recent study explores how improved design and user behavior can reduce stepladder accidents. Potential solutions include sturdier platforms, closed tubular sections, and warnings for users to avoid overreaching.
Researchers found that untrained operators can accurately judge a robot's size relative to an opening but overestimate their driving skill. With practice, participants improve their driveability judgments, reducing the likelihood of robots getting stuck.
Researchers found that drivers who engage in a secondary task, such as talking on the phone, are more likely to stay focused and avoid accidents. The study suggests that strategically introducing an additional task can improve driver attention and stability, particularly during monotonous driving.
A study published in Applied Ergonomics reveals that rationalization measures often harm physical and psychosocial work environments. However, research suggests that dialogue-based leadership with employee involvement can mitigate these effects. By prioritizing active involvement, employee well-being, and fair treatment, management can...
A study of 28 radiologists found a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms, including lower back pain, wrist pain, and headaches, due to inadequate workstation ergonomics. The findings highlight the importance of researching workstation design to minimize long-term implications for radiologists.
Research by Temple University's Judith Gold suggests that excessive texting among college students can lead to neck and shoulder pain, a condition typically associated with prolonged computer use. The study uses infrared cameras and motion analysis to track the body's position during texting simulations.
A study by Indiana University found that adults with intellectual disabilities increased their personal health knowledge after taking a semi-weekly class for four weeks. The study also investigated the use of stability balls at work, finding that they can strengthen core muscles and promote more natural movement.
According to new research, background images in charts and graphs can actually enhance one's ability to read them. When presented against a contrasting background, design elements such as rectangles or circles make the graph pop out, allowing viewers to focus on individual components more effectively.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and IT University in Copenhagen found that 94% of respondents violate computer authentication best practices, with novice users being more likely to do so. The study emphasizes the need for a better balance between human limitations and security measures.
Human factors researchers suggest adding engine noise to quiet hybrid cars to improve pedestrian safety. Participants rated automotive engine sounds as the most preferred category, followed by white noise and hum.
Researchers at Cornell University found that vibrating mice can signal users to take breaks, but may not change behavior. Ergonomic products like undulating chairs and movable arms for monitors show promise in reducing workplace injuries and improving comfort.
Dr. W. Gene Corley, a leading expert on building collapse investigations and building codes, received the National Engineering Award from IEEE-USA for his inspirational leadership and tireless devotion to improving engineering education. The award also recognizes his work in promoting sound public policies as an engineer-statesman.
The DOE JGI's 'Shake 'N Plate' instrument, designed to alleviate bacterial culture plating fatigue, has been recognized for its team-driven workplace solutions. The innovation has led to a steady decrease in OSHA-recordable ergonomic injuries and improved productivity at the production genomics facility.
A new ergonomic backpack has been invented by using rubber bands to reduce the effects of heavy loads on shoulders and joints. The design allows users to carry 12 more pounds in the suspended backpack than in a traditional backpack.
A joint study by University of Alberta and Napier University of Scotland found bartending has the highest potential for injury in pubs, with workers at risk of back pain and shoulder strain. The study recommends changes such as reducing bar height, installing slip-free floors, and using dollys to move heavy loads to prevent injuries.
A North Carolina State University study found that up to 79% of DHS safety symbols are unacceptable for communicating hazard-related information. The researchers recommend using human factors solutions such as testing, iterative comprehension testing, and public awareness campaigns to improve the effectiveness of these symbols.
New research indicates that hands-free devices are not the solution to driver distraction, as they can still disrupt driving and lead to poor speed control. The study also shows that auditory information, such as voice commands, competes for drivers' attention more than visual displays.
A study conducted at Cornell University found that raising office temperatures from 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit resulted in a 44% decrease in typing errors and a 150% increase in typing output. The findings suggest that warmer temperatures can lead to increased productivity and cost savings for employers.
Researchers are developing user-centered design guidelines to reduce pesticide exposure among ethnic minority farm workers, improving safety and communication. The project aims to create more effective risk communications, applicable to all farm workers regardless of ethnicity.
A Cornell University study found that workers using proper ergonomic products and trained in their use experience a significant decline in musculoskeletal problems. The study, which involved coordinating ergonomic interventions with training, showed improvements in nearly half of the participants.
Case studies illustrate how special-interest groups influence policies on needle exchange programs, ergonomics, and mammograms. The authors suggest that institutions must address vested interests to ensure the appropriate use of scientific evidence.
A new Cornell University study reveals that household chores such as scrubbing, mopping, and vacuuming are still among the most tiring tasks, similar to those found in a 1937 survey. The researchers recommend redesigning these processes to reduce strain and fatigue.
Children are at high risk for injuries from computer use due to poor posture and ergonomics. By following guidelines such as placing feet on the floor or footrests, maintaining a flat wrist angle while typing, and using adjustable workstations, schools can create safer environments for students.
A new study by Cornell University found that ergonomic chairs do not significantly reduce the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome or other wrist injuries in computer users. Despite being designed for use during keyboarding, typists extended their wrists beyond recommended angles in all tested chairs.
A Cornell University study found that a vertical split keyboard lowers injury risk for carpal tunnel syndrome, with wrists in safe positions 71% and 78% of the time. The prototype keyboard design reduces strain on wrists and forearms, allowing for more efficient typing movements.
A new ergonomic framework measures office productivity by analyzing task time, posture, and sequence. This approach allows companies to evaluate the impact of ergonomic interventions on worker productivity, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the benefits of this approach.
The discipline of human factors/ergonomics aims to improve people's health, safety, and comfort through the application of human-system interface technology. Despite its potential to make a difference in quality of life, organizations often fail to recognize its value, citing added costs as a reason.
The article discusses how manufacturers can use human factors theory and research to create computer programs that specify the number of different-sized versions of a product needed for each target market. This approach allows for a better fit and comfort for consumers, while also reducing costs and improving safety. The program helps ...
The 41st Annual Meeting of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society will feature a diverse range of topics, including cognitive task analysis, human factors in healthcare, and automation research. The technical program includes over 80 sessions, workshops, and poster presentations, as well as site tours and job placement services.