Technology Focus Area: Human Factors

The Human Factors Program at the Transportation Security Laboratory (TSL) has been conducting Human Factors research and development (R&D), and providing test and evaluation (T&E) support for transportation security for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and components of the Department of Homeland Security since 1992. The Human Factors Program oversees research designed to improve human-operator integration in security systems. By examining the interaction between the human operator and the technology, and using the combined system as the unit of analysis, human factors research is able to evaluate and improve performance beyond what is possible by examining each component in isolation.

Currently, the Human Factors group oversees several research grants that are examining visual search, object recognition, and screener fatigue as they affect visual baggage-search performance. The Human Factors group has provided many tests and protocols for X-ray and explosive detection system (EDS) screener use, including a tool for on-screen alarm resolution, object recognition tests to assess candidate screeners, image mastery tests, image proficiency tests, and screener qualification tests.

Research topics being explored by the Human Factors team include training, the effects of target frequency, object identification, advanced 3-D and motion imaging, distraction during visual search, X-ray search task design, and screener fatigue.

One of the ongoing Human Factors projects is research and development of Advanced Display Systems (ADS) such as stereoscopic imaging. An innovative approach to rendering 3D x-ray images in space through an auto-stereoscopic device is under development with an industry partner, in which an X-ray image that is displayed on a 3D system becomes a “true” virtual image representation of an object or set of objects. The holographic-like projection is perceived as almost “real” and has height and depth characteristics. Furthermore, thanks to good ergonomic design, this system does not require special 3D glasses, visual, or lighting aids. Another industry partner is working with various 3D display manufacturers to develop the first 3D X-ray machine which scans bags in real time. All of these new display methods show potential to improve screener performance.

The Human Factors Program also supports the test and evaluation of technologies prior to acquisition. This is accomplished through 1) requirement specifications early in the design and acquisition process, 2) usability analyses conducted on existing technologies, and 3) test design and 4) analysis for human-in-the-loop behavioral testing.