Virtual reality (VR) and personal head-mounted displays (HMDs) can be a viable tool for the presentation of scientifically accurate and valid demonstrative data in the courtroom. However, the capabilities and limitations of the technology need to be fully characterized. The current pilot study evaluated visual acuity and contrast sensitivity using two commercially available HMDs (Oculus Rift and HTC Vive Pro). Preliminary findings indicated that visual acuity and contrast sensitivity experienced in VR may be less than what is experienced in real-world scenarios. The current pilot study provides a quantitative approach for characterizing the limitations of VR with respect to visual acuity and contrast sensitivity, and provides recommendations for the appropriate use of this technology when performing forensic investigations and developing visualization tools.
Smartphones have become an essential part of our everyday life. Use of mobile instant messaging applications (e.g., WhatsApp, Messenger, iMessage, Kik, Viber, GroupMe, Telegram, Send, Line, and Snapchat) rather than messaging services from cellular service providers have become very popular among users, far outpacing the use of more traditional text messaging. Initial research revealed that the global usage of these modes of communication far outnumber standard text messaging. These instant messaging apps allow users to perform the same function as traditional communication tools (text, voice call, audio message, video call from phone carrier’s number). Additionally, they offer other capabilities such as creating group chats, and sharing photos/videos – in many cases without the need of using data plan coverage from phone carriers. Although instant messaging applications have become very popular, their use for communication may not be considered as often as traditional voice and text message phone records when assessing accident causation due to potential driver distraction from phone usage. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the prevalence of instant messaging applications, the need to consider the usage of instant messaging applications when assessing potential driver and pedestrian distractions due to smartphone usage, and some initial tools for gathering data on usage of some of the applications.
The objective of this panel is to open a dialog between the general HFES membership and the HFES Coallition of Affinity Groups (COAG). COAG members will describe the foundation, actions and goals of HFES Affinity Groups and answer questions from attendees. The panel will start by Dr. Ashley Hughes and Sylvain Bruni briefly giving an overview and the purpose for this discussion panel. The panelists will then provide their views and experiences regarding this topic. Gwen Malone will discuss how she leads and envisions the future of the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) group. Dr. Rose Figueroa will share about the formation of the newest Affinity Group, Disability and Chronic Illness (DCI) group. Dr. Jules Trippe and Hanna Barton will discuss their approach in building the LGBTQ+ community and group and Christy Harper will discuss leadership within the HF/E’s Women’s Organization for Mentoring And Networking (WOMAN). The specific theme of this discussion panel is focused on how we can engage members while promoting intersectional inclusivity. Discussion time: 90 minutes.
The society’s code of ethics was last updated in 2005 and thus needs to be reviewed and updated. To do so, the previous code of ethics was reviewed as well as other documentation particularly with respect to inclusion. The goal of the Code of Ethics Task Force at the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society is to not only review the society’s artefacts but also to recommend suggestions for their improvement with respect to best practices. Further, this Task Force will explore whether and if so how, operating rules should be established to support the Code of Ethics.
Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) is recognized as crucial to addressing societal challenges that are systemic in nature, including issues of diversity, equity and inclusion. The Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF) recently issued a guidance outlining how HFE can help address DEI issues, in line with the Annual Meeting activities organized by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) Diversity and Inclusion Committee since 2016. This panel brings together the author of the CIEHF report, a former President of CIEHF and two HFES members to discuss DEI issues in HFE science HFE. The goal of this session is to identify needs and opportunities within HF/E to directly support DEI initiatives and approaches, both within and external to our disciplinary societies. This is an interactive session between the attendees guided by the panelists.
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