Human Factors and Cockpit Ergonomics

Learning Outcome 1: Critically apply knowledge of the principles of Human Factors and ergonomics through the systematic investigation of complex issues to produce safe, efficient and cost-effective solutions in the aviation/aerospace industry

Learning Outcome 2: Apply Human Factors and ergonomic theories to practical case studies in which aviation- related scenarios are analysed.

Learning Outcome 3: Critically evaluate research findings and theories in the area of Aviation Human Factors.

Learning Outcome 4: Demonstrate the skills and qualities required of a Human Factors professional (e.g. demonstration of ethical and legal considerations; critical reflection and personal responsibility) in the safety-critical aviation environment.

Assignment Brief

Cabin crew and passengers remain at the heart of aviation safety, as such, the need for careful consideration of Human Factors continues to increase. The Aviation Industry requires a strong commitment to and understanding of human performance issues in addition to engineering excellence to meet the safety performance and business requirements of all stakeholders. Therefore, as an aerospace engineer, it is expedient to have an in-depth understanding of the aerospace industry requirements to ensure safety, efficient performance, and cost reduction through the application of Human Factors in Aviation skills and knowledge.

In order to carry out this assignment, you first need to conduct thorough research into Human Factors and ergonomic related issues in regard to the aerospace industry. This report will assess your application of knowledge and skills within the aerospace industry, your personal reflections, as well as your ability to relate and translate theoretical concepts into a real-life situation. Select any ONE of the following titles for your research and coursework.

Q1 From an engineering perspective, critically examine the way in which two NASA space shuttle disasters highlight issues surrounding Human Factors models when applying aspects of new materials and technology.

Q2 From an engineering perspective, critically examine four case studies provided by aircraft accident investigation organisations (e.g. AAIB, NTSB, Transport Canada, BEA) and their reports. Explain also how Reason's (1990) ‘Swiss Cheese model' identifies the way in which Human Factors can be the main contributory factor(s) in causing safety critical incidents.

Q3 Identify what is meant by Crew Resource Management (CRM) and critically examine the work of Air Accident Investigation reports, using four case studies of passenger transport aircraft and analyse the way that they have influenced the development of Crew resource management (CRM) since 1945.

Q4 From an engineering perspective, using air accident reports and other data, critically examine and evaluate the safety record of two different aircraft types from the air passenger transport category and explore the way that ergonomic design features, combined with Human Factor issues have played a major impact on safety critical incidents.

Q5 From an engineering perspective, what ways have the move to more automated flight systems happened and how has it impacted on Human factors and CRM in new generation passenger aircraft? Using Air accident reports as the main focus, Provide two case studies to illustrate your critical analysis.

Q6 From an engineering perspective, critically evaluate the way in which the design philosophy of two major passenger aircraft manufacturers has influenced their approach to cockpit ergonomics and the application of automation. Illustrate your findings by making reference to air accident reports where appropriate.

Attachment:- human factors and cockpit ergonomics.rar