Paris Stringfellow

On spatiochromatic visual sensitivity and peripheral color LOD management

Empirical findings from a gaze-contingent color degradation study report the effects of artificial reduction of the human visual systems sensitivity to peripheral chromaticity on visual search performance. To our knowledge, this is the first such investigation of peripheral color reduction. For unimpeded performance, results suggest that, unlike spatiotemporal content, peripheral chromaticity cannot be reduced within the central 20° visual angle. Somewhat analogous to dark adaptation, reduction of peripheral color tends to simulate scotopic viewing conditions. This holds significant implications for chromatic Level Of Detail management. Specifically, while peripheral spatiotemporal detail can be attenuated without affecting visual search, often dramatically (e.g., spatial detail can be so reduced up to 50% at about 5°), peripheral chromatic reduction is likely to be noticed much sooner. Therefore, color LOD reduction (e.g., via compression), should be maintained isotropically across the central 20° visual field.

Using multimodal technologies to enhance aviation maintenance inspection training

Recent collaborative efforts between Greenville Technical Colleges Aviation Maintenance Technology (Greenville, South Carolina, USA) training facility and Clemson University (Clemson, South Carolina, USA) have lead to significant improvements in Aviation Maintenance Technician training through the use of advanced computer technology. Such applications included: 2.5D and 3D virtual environments of a large-bodied aircraft cargobay with interaction modalities ranging from fully immersive (using a head-mounted display and 6 degrees-of-freedom mouse) to semi-immersive (using a spatially-tracked suspended, touch-sensitive window display) to non-immersive (using a basic desktop computer and mouse); and 3D virtual environments of turbine engine blades where nondestructive inspection methods (e.g. borescoping) could be practiced. This paper discusses the integration of these technologies into an existing educational curriculum and provides insight as to how such programs might be implemented and evaluated.

Examining Error Pathways: An Analysis of Contributing Factors using HFACS in Non-Aviation Industries:

This study investigated human error in non-aviation industries utilizing the Human Factors Classification and Analysis System (HFACS). The purpose of this study was to identify associations between active errors and latent conditions beyond the aviation industry using a taxonomy that systemically identifies both active errors and latent conditions at all levels of an organization. Doing so could potentially allow for the shifting of intervention target areas from active errors to latent conditions. Seven data sources representing five different non-aviation industry types were analyzed using HFACS methodology and causal category associations were identified. Among the various significant causal factor associations, violations were determined be associated with certain causal categories at the unsafe supervision tier. Additionally, crew resource management causal factors were found to be associated with both skill-based and decision errors. Associations among the HFACS causal categories yield useful information when determining targeted interventions.

Evaluation of Interaction Devices for Ndi Training in Vr: Gamepad Vs. Joystick

Recent advances have led to the development of a virtual simulator to be used for non-destructive inspection (NDI) training of aviation maintenance technicians. The simulator is distinctive in that it has been developed to simulate a general type of NDI job aiding tool (video borescope), as opposed to only simulating a precise model and make. By generating a simulator based on a generic model of the video borescope, the development process must face a common hurdle: determining the best interaction device for the task at hand. In the real world, video borescopes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, as do their interaction devices. In this case, the team must decide upon the best interaction device to be used while ensuring the retention of inspection information from training and facilitating interaction ease of use, all while not permanently engraining the skills that will be needed to control the actual devices when actually used. In short, the interaction device chosen for this simulator should facilitate the trainees ability to learn NDI techniques without hardwiring simulator control techniques which can vary greatly in the real world. In an effort to determine the most applicable interaction device for this generic training simulator, a study was conducted using expert inspectors and two common interaction devices: a gamepad and a joystick. Performance measures were collected and subjective measures, by way of post-test questionnaires, were considered as well. This paper details the evaluation of a gamepad and a joystick as interaction devices when used with a virtual video borescope simulator for inspection training. Following the findings identified in the study, recommendations are provided for the implementation of such devices.