Progress 10/01/08 to 09/30/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: No activity to report - I was on sabbatical leave. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
No activity to report - I was on sabbatical leave.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 10/01/07 to 09/30/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: A series of laboratory and field experimental studies have been undertaken to determine the effects of different ergonomic product designs and workplace interventions on the comfort, health, and performance of individuals. These studies have examined the effects of a novel design for a continuous passive motion chair; the use of an articulating arm for flat panel displays; the usability of a virtual keyboard; and the impact of Web page design on the purchasing decisions of consumers. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: The results of all of these studies provide valuable information to any individual or organization contemplating and ergonomic intervention. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
The results of all of these studies provide valuable information to any individual or organization contemplating and ergonomic intervention.
Publications
- Lawler, E. and Hedge, A. (2008) Task-Specific Speed Preferences When Sitting on a Rotary Dynamic Seat, Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 52nd Annual Meeting, New York, Sept.22-26: 687-691.
- Agarwal, A. and Hedge, A. (2008) The Impact of Web Page Usability Guideline Implementation on Aesthetics and Perceptions of the E-Retailer, Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 52nd Annual Meeting, New York, Sept.22-26: 528-532.
- Wang, X. and Hedge, A. (2008) A Usability Evaluation of a Laser Projection Virtual Keyboard, Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 52nd Annual Meeting, New York, Sept.22-26: 537-541.
- Boothroyd, K.and Hedge, A. (2007) Effects of an LCD arm on comfort, posture and preference in an Architectural practice, Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 51st Annual Meeting, Baltimore, Oct.1-5:549-553.
- Moe, C.R. and Hedge, A. (2007) Effects of a Vibrating Mouse on Computer Users Work Behaviors and Performance, Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 51st Annual Meeting, Baltimore, Oct.1-5: 991-995.
- Lawler, E. and Hedge, A. (2007) Effects of a dynamic seat pan on torso movement, back comfort, and task performance, Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 51st Annual Meeting, Baltimore, Oct.1-5: 544.548.
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Progress 10/01/06 to 09/30/07
Outputs
We have undertaken 2 research projects in this area. One of these projects has investigated the way in which a chair with a continuous passive motion seat pan affects reports of back pain and task performance for several different types of work. We have found that the CPM seat can offer some relief to those with back pain, especially when performing a relaxed task, such as watching a video. The second project has looked at the effects of a computer mouse that vibrates when the hand has not moved for a period of time. The vibration serves as a reminder to the user to move their hand to relieve static muscle load. We investigated how well people reacted to this, whether if detyrimentally affected task performance, and what people did with their hand if they removed this from the mouse. Results showed mixed effects with some promise that this type of technology might play a useful role in reducing the risks of a repetitive injury related to overuse of the compuer mouse.
Impacts
The results of these studies provide information on the comfort, health, and performance for office workers. This information will be of value to organizations that are considering making changes to the ergonomic design of their workplaces. It is also useful to manufacturers in guiding future product development.
Publications
- Lawler, E. and Hedge, A. 2007. Effects of a dynamic seat pan on torso movement, back comfort, and task performance. Proc. Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 51st Annual Meeting, Baltimore, Oct.1-5: 544-548.
- Moe, C.R. and Hedge, A. 2007. Effects of a Vibrating Mouse on Computer Users' Work Behaviors and Performance. Proc. Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 51st Annual Meeting, Baltimore, Oct.1-5: 991-995.
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Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06
Outputs
We have undertaken 2 research projects in this area. One of these projects has investigated the way in which fabric/mesh backed chairs deform to support the lower back when a person sits on the chair. This style of chair has become more commonplace in offices. We found significant differences in the quality of lower back support as a function of the design of the material of the chair back. The second project has looked at the reactions of work is in an architectural office to the use of arms for their flat-panel displays. This is a three-phase study, with a baseline, short-term, longer-term follow-up survey and observation of the employees. There is a test group and a control group. In 2006 we completed the first two phases of this study.
Impacts
The results of this study will provide information on the comfort, health, and performance benefits of using an adjustable on when working with a flat-panel computer display. This information will be of value to organizations that are considering making changes to the ergonomic design of their workplaces, and this will give them guidance on most appropriate type of screen arm products to purchase. We anticipate finding a reduction in musculoskeletal discomfort problems when users have great control over the position of their screen, and we may also see an improvement in work productivity.
Publications
- Agarwal, A. and Hedge, A. 2006. A 3D Body Scan Method to Investigate How Flexible Material Chair Backs Respond to the Seated Body, Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 50th Annual Meeting, San Francisco, Oct.16-20. 804-808.
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Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05
Outputs
Research is being conducted on the effects of ergonomic office equipment on the comfort and productivity of office workers. A series of studies will be conducted to test the effects of interventions such as alternative keyboiards and mice, keyboard trays, chairs, LCD arms and task lights.
Impacts
Results will indicate the most effective ergonomic interventons for particular office situations and this will be of value to companies and office workers, to improve their health and performance.
Publications
- Hedge, A., Saito, M. and Jagdeo, J. 2005. Does chair design affect thermal comfort? Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 49th Annual Meeting, Orlando, Sept. 26-30, HFES, Santa Monica, 793-797.
- Hedge, A., Jagdeo, J., Argawal, A. and Rockey-Harris, K. 2005. Sitting or standing for computer work: does a negative-tilt keyboard tray make a difference? Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 49th Annual Meeting, Orlando, Sept. 26-30, HFES, Santa Monica, 808-812.
- Thom-Santelli, J. and Hedge, A. 2005. Effects of a multitouch keyboard on wrist posture, typing performance and comfort. Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 49th Annual Meeting, Orlando, Sept. 26-30, HFES, Santa Monica, 646-650.
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Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04
Outputs
Research has been conducted on the effects of height-adjustable ergonomic furniture on the comfort, health and performance of workers in two companies. Results from this work will have implications for the design of office work environments. Other studies are being planned.
Impacts
Results will help to define the optimal ergonomci designs for modern office workplaces.
Publications
- Hedge, A. and Ray, E.J. 2004. Effects of an electronic height-adjustable worksurface on self-assessed musculoskeletal discomfort and productivity among computer workers, Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 48th Annual Meeting, New Orleans, Sept. 20-24, HFES, Santa Monica, 1091-1095.
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Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03
Outputs
Work is ongoing to plan a study and that will investigate the role of the task lighting in creating optimal indoor lighting conditions for workers. The specific focus of this work is on the changing lighting needs that occur as the eye ages. A combination lighting and to task lighting may author of the most flexible solution to meet the needs of a wide variety of individuals. The impact of new her display technologies as, such as LCD screens, on all lighting needs is also being investigated.
Impacts
Results from this work will have implications for the design of lighting systems in different work environments.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02
Outputs
Research on lighting issues that impact the risks of computer vision syndrome are being explored. Studies are being considered that may explore the impact of LED technology on the possibilities for new forms of indoor lighting.
Impacts
Evaluation of the impact of energy efficient new forms of lighting, such as LED technology.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/01 to 12/31/01
Outputs
A project was undertaken to investigate eyestrain and glare in offices and the role played by anti-glare filters. Results have been published. Current projects include: a) development work on Cyberlux, and international collaborative project to compile lighting and health research on the web. b) planned research on specular blinds and ceilings as a way to increase daylight ingress and reduce energy consumption in buildings.
Impacts
Information on lighting research will be available on the web and will help users improve their visual environment while saving energy.
Publications
- Lorusso, T., Hedge, A. and S. Middendorf. 2001. Do anti-glare filters help computer users in offices?. Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 45th Annual Meeting, Vol. 1, 786-790.
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Progress 01/01/00 to 12/31/00
Outputs
Work is continuing on investigations of methods to improve lighting quality and to reduce computer screen glare in office environments. A current project is testing the effects of diferent anti-glare filters on performance and health in an insurance company.
Impacts
Information on research results is available on the Cornell Ergonomics web site and is used by people who are experiencing lighting problems.
Publications
- Hedge, A. (2000) Where are we in understanding where we are? Ergonomics, 43(7), 1019-1029.
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Progress 01/01/99 to 12/31/99
Outputs
Research on office lighting is progressing with three new areas of investigation: a) a comparative study of new parabolic luminaires is being planned b) a field study of antiglare filters is being planned c) with some new eyetracking equipment, a study of lighting effects on eye movements while working at a computer screen is being planned. The past year has been spent in bringing a new laboratory facility up to speed for lighting studies.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/98 to 12/31/98
Outputs
Research on lighting solutions to computer glare issues is continuing. A case study of this type of lighting has been conducted and a paper describing this work has been written. Further studies of alternative two-component lighting systems are being planned.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Hedge, A. (1999) Critical issues in office lighting: achieving a balanced luminous environment for optimal corporate activities. Facility Forum '99, San Jose, CA, March 29-31.
- Hedge, A. (1998) Evaluating the benefits of two-component lighting methods for corporate offices - a case study, Design.y.c., New York, 29 October.
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Progress 01/01/97 to 12/31/97
Outputs
Research on two-component lighting, where indirect lighting is coupled with adjustable task lighting, is being explored. A case study of this type of lighting has been conducted and a paper describing this work is being written. Further studies of alternative two-component lighting systems are being planned.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/96 to 12/30/96
Outputs
A research study comparing two forms of furniture-mounted task light systems in a windowless office has recently been completed. A final report of this study has been written. A conference poster presentation on this study was made at the 1996 annual HFES conference. Further studies of alternative task lighting systems are being planned.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Hedge, A., McCrobie, D., and Corbett, S. (1996) Effects of anti-glare filters on computer workers: results from an ergonomic field study. Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 39th Annual Meeting, Vol. 1, 478-482.
- Hedge, A. (1996) Effects of furniture-integrated task lighting systems on comfort and health in a windowless office, Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomic Society 40th Annual Meeting, Vol. 1, (abstract/poster).
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Progress 01/01/95 to 12/30/95
Outputs
Research on office lighting continues with a focus on new forms of furniture-mounted task lighting, and also the interplay between office lighting and computer glare screens in resolving screen glare problems. A survey of some 190 users of computer glare screens has been completed and results are being analyzed. Another survey of workers using two different types of furniture-mounted task lighting is underway. Results will be presented at conference and journal articles will be prepared.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- NO PUBLICATIONS REPORTED THIS PERIOD.
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Progress 10/01/90 to 09/30/93
Outputs
Additional analyses of the lighting data, which has examined to role of daylightand artificial light on worker reactions, have been completed. Results have been reported at an international conference. A proposal for a new project, on the effects of indirect task lighting, is being prepared. This project should be completed in 1995.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Hedge, A. (1994) Reactions of computer users to three different lighting systems in windowed and windowless offices. Work With Display Units '94, Milan, Italy, October 2-5, B54-B56.
- Hedge, A. (1994) Human Factors aspects of museum design. Proceedings of Public Institutions for Personal Learning: The long-term impact of museums., August 28-29, Annapolis, MD.
- Hedge, A. (1994) Healthy environmental conditions for computer workers. International Ergonomics Conference '94, Vol. 5, 282-284, August 15-19, Toronto, Canada.
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Progress 01/01/92 to 12/30/92
Outputs
Publications describing the results of the research have been written. Additional research projects which directly follow from the results of this work to date are under negotiation. Discussions on editing a textbook on Vision Ergonomics are in progress.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- HEDGE, A., SIMS, W.R. and BECKER, F.D. 1992. The effects of lensed-indirect uplighting and parabolic downlighting on the satisfaction and visual health of office workers. Ergonomics, in-press.
- HEDGE, A. 1992. Ecological ergonomics: the study of human work environments. Impact of science on society 165:53-64.
- HEDGE, A. 1992. Workstation environmental factors - the 1990s - the decade of the environment. In A. Rubin (ed.) Office Workspace for Tomorrow DOT Workshop (Nov. 13-14, 1991) Contributed Papers, NISTIR 4801, March, pp. 43-49.
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Progress 01/01/91 to 12/30/91
Outputs
Following final data collection from a 15 month follow-up survey of the effects of office lighting, results have been analyzed and reported in several publications. Results confirm that lensed-indirect lighting performs well and is the peferred system for computer users to reduce glare problems. Since the inception of this work a number of new lighting systems have been developed. Research studies currently are being planned that will investigate the effects of some of these systems on worker's health, comfort, and performance.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- HEDGE, A. 1991. Healthy office lighting for computer workers: a comparison of lensed-indirect and direct systems. Healthy Buildings - IAQ '91, ASHRAE, 61-66.
- HEDGE, A. 1991. The effects of direct and indirect office lighting on VDT workers. Proceedings of the 35th Annual Meeting of the Human Factors Society, Vol. 1, 551-555.
- HEDGE, A. 1991. Challenges to the future of lighting design in the office environment. Asia-Pacific Public Works Congress and Trade Show, Brisbane, Australia, 1-5 Sept., 1991.
- HEDGE, A. 1991. The effects of direct and indirect office lighting on VDT workers. In Y. Queinnec and F. Daniellou (eds.). Desigining for Everyone, Proceedings for Everyone, Proceedings of the 11th Congress of the Intl. Ergno. Assoc.
- HEDGE, A. 1991. Office lighting for VDT work: comparative surveys of reactions to parabolic and lensed-indirect systems. In Lovesey, E.J. (ed.) Contemporary Ergonomics 1991, Proceedings of the Ergonm. Soc. Annl. Conf., Southampton, Eng.
- HEDGE, A. 1991. Design innovations in office environments. In: W.F.E. Preiser, J.C., Vischer, and E.T. White (eds.), Design Intervention: Toward a More Humane Architecture. Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York, pp. 301-322.
- DANKO, S., ESHELMAN, P. and HEDGE, A. 1991. A taxonomy of health, safety, and.
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