DARRELL LEE (M.S.)
Human Factors Engineer
A LITTLE ABOUT ME
I graduated from the University of Idaho with a Human Factors Engineering Degree (M.S.). I am currently a Research Analyst Intern for HumanLink LLC specializing in airport security. Some of my hobbies include building and flying RC drones. In fact, many of my projects deal with human-drone interaction.
MY WORK
Making the world a better place
DRONE TRANSMITTER OPERATING SYSTEM:
A TASK ANALYSIS AND USER CENTERED REDESIGN
May, 2021
Abstract
OpenTX is an operating system for RC transmitters and is used by hobbyists to program drones, fixed-wing aircraft, and ground vehicles before operation. OpenTX is widely known for being powerful, affordable, and extremely customizable, but surveys and online reviews indicate that OpenTX is confusing and possesses a high learning curve for beginner and intermediate operators. A task analysis comprised of contextual inquiries and performance measures were used to quantify the problem aspects of the system. Surveys and observations indicated that participants have difficulty navigating and learning the layout of the system. Additionally, participants did not have a standardized way of learning the complex system in order to get the vehicle operational. The prototype incorporates a touchscreen GUI with help icons, videos, wizards, improved menus and mappings to address these issues. A longitudinal study and subjective survey of the prototype found improved memorability, learnability and subjective experience with the gen 3 prototype.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE:
A NEUROCOGNITIVE PERSPECTIVE
December, 2021
Abstract
Deep networks are a subset of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI). Each layer in a deep network contains a set of nodes that hold a numerical value between 0 and 1; nodes are a medium through which data and computations flow. When a node receives a high numerical value, it activates and influences nodes in the next layer. The network ‘learns’ through backpropagation where a list of changes is acquired of what should happen in the previous layer. Weights and biases for each nodal connection are tweaked during this process. Deep networks are used in many applications, such as discerning visual stimuli, language comprehension, attention, games, and self-driving cars. The human brain is the author of the deep network, but researchers are now using these networks to help understand the inner workings within the brain. Lastly, artificial consciousness is discussed. Some authors believe artificial consciousness in machines isn’t possible, while others like Hugh Howey believe it is possible (2017). The implications of such a conscious machine are talked about.
JOYSTICK GRIP MATTERS: A CONTEXTUAL INQUIRY
May, 2022
Abstract
The thumb grip, pinch grip, and hybrid grip are commonly used on transmitter joysticks for remote vehicle operations. A contextual inquiry was performed to understand which grips are used and why. 60 remote control (RC) operators were surveyed and asked open-ended questions and rated each grip style based on their experiences and beliefs. Results found that the majority of the sampled operators currently use the hybrid grip (25), followed by the thumb grip (19), and pinch grip (13). Participants believe the hybrid grip allows for the best overall speed and accuracy for racing and acrobatic operations, and the pinch grip offers better results for smooth cinematic operations. Those who preferred the thumb grip liked the familiarity and unrestricted motion the thumb offers. The thumb grip averaged the lowest subjective finger and hand fatigue compared to the pinch and hybrid grip.
JOYSTICK GRIP MATTERS: A PERFORMANCE STUDY
May, 2022
Abstract
A study was performed to assess the thumb grip, pinch grip, and hybrid grip throughput on a remote control (RC) transmitter used for drone operation. In a within-subjects study, 19 college students underwent a performance assessment for each grip with 6 trials of varying Index of Difficulties (IDs) for each grip. Results found no significant difference between the throughput on grip style. However, a post-survey questionnaire found many other differences between each grip. The thumb grip received the lowest subjective scores for finger, hand, and arm fatigue. Familiarity with the thumb grip seemed to have a large influence on participants, this was reflected in the low mental effort scores of the thumb grip. This study assessed individuals with little to no RC experience who had little to no prior experience with the pinch or hybrid grip. Results may be similar to individuals who want to get into the RC hobby and have little experience.
ERGONOMICS AND BIOMECHANICS
April, 2022
Abstract
An ergonomic consultation and analysis were performed for a small tire shop. A tire shop presents several opportunities to assess lifting practices and handling of equipment. Observations and person-to-person interviews found several risk factors associated with product handling, interaction with equipment, and the physical environment. In particular, twisting while lifting was an observed risk factor: equipment, such as ladders and stairs were positioned in a manner that required the individual to be in the compromised lifting posture. Tires were found stored on high shelving that required a ladder to access and a second-story storage platform that required an unsafe staircase to access. Furthermore, workstation risk factors such as kneeling and monitor adjustability were found. Ergonomic advice was given in the form of educational instruction. Several assistive products in the marketplace were priced and presented to the tire technician. Three days later when asked about the consultation, the tire technician reported that the instructional lifting was valuable, and the environmental hazards were a high priority.
TREADMILL REDESIGN
December, 2020
For my group project in Human Factors in Engineering Design class, we took on the challenge to redesign the treadmill. My part in the project consisted of a passive safety assessment of current treadmills, gathering feedback of current treadmill experiences and preferences, building the prototype, and gathering user data and feedback of the finished prototype. A task analysis found that most people do not use the safety strap provided by the manufacturer that stops the treadmill when activated. User observation found that operators make small errors when pushing buttons on a traditional input screen while simultaneously running. The prototype incorporates a handheld input device that also doubles as a safety mechanism. Other solutions to the treadmill redesign are discussed in detail. Below is the attached PowerPoint slides of our stage one and stage two presentations.
HUMANLINK LLC INTERNSHIP
PUBLISHED ARTICLES:
-TECHNOLOGY ADVANCES IN AVIATION SECURITY
-AIRPORT SECURITY: SHOULD WE TRUST IN AUTOMATION
February, 2022
Abstract
As a Research Analyst Intern for HumanLink LLC, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with Human Factors Consultant, Bonnie Kudrick, who specializes in Human Factors Airport Security. During that time, I have acted as Kudrick’s proxy for webinars and product demonstrations to evaluate various advanced imaging devices and other security technologies. Furthermore, I published several articles for the company website: HumanLinkLLC.com. The first article titled “Technology Advances in Aviation Security” analyzes screening technologies such as Computed Tomography (CT), Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) and body scanners. Computer Based Training (CBT) and the emergence of X-Ray Tutor 4 (A training software used for 3d CT imaging) are discussed. Furthermore, biometrics, behavioral profiling, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) topics are reviewed. The second article titled “Airport Security: Should We Trust Automation” reviews current applications of automation in airport security, the need for automation in airport security, and problems that can happen if automation is not correctly applied. Wicken’s Multiple Resource Theory is discussed along with other human cognitive limitations. Lastly, automation models and levels of automation are reviewed to emphasize allocation of function between the system and the human.
