This field study evaluated a wireless, wearable Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) multi-modal system—consisting of an Android™ device, headset with a microphone, and ring scanner—for product selection in a cold storage facility. Conditions in these facilities are harsh, with temperatures ranging from −25 to −29 C, noise levels of 70–95 dBA from compressors, evaporator fans, and blast freezers, and icy floor surfaces. The ASR multi-modal system replaced radio frequency handheld scanners that were previously used for order selection. The implementation was instrumental in increased order-selection efficiency by about 30%, improved work quality, and enhanced ergonomics. All order selectors reported satisfaction with the ASR multi-modal system.
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder characterized by impaired movement, balance difficulties, abnormal muscle tone, and motor dysfunction resulting from brain damage during early developmental stages of birth. These impairments significantly influence a child’s ability to perform daily activities and lead an independent life. Therefore, providing appropriate assistive mobility devices is essential to enhance mobility, safety, and overall quality of life for children with CP. Walking aids are commonly used rehabilitation devices designed to support movement and promote independence. Many existing walking aids are not designed using anthropometric data representative of the geographical population for which they are intended, which may reduce their ergonomic suitability. This study addresses this limitation by developing a local anthropometric database for Jordanian children with CP aged 1–5 years. Anthropometric measurements were collected and analyzed to support ergonomic design requirements. Based on these measurements, dimensional requirements were established and translated into a conceptual computer-aided design (CAD) of an adjustable walking aid. The proposed conceptual design incorporates appropriate dimensional specifications derived from the collected anthropometric data to ensure comfort, stability, and safety. Jansen mechanism of motion is applied to the new design to promote children mobility. The proposed walking aid is intended to accommodate children with CP within the 1–5-year age group, facilitating improved mobility and supporting their participation in daily activities and rehabilitation programs.
The current study compared the psychophysiological effects of Virtual Reality (VR) exergaming ( Beat Saber ) and survival horror ( Resident Evil ). We assessed flow, cognitive workload, and cybersickness along with autonomic responses via heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV). The results showed that VR exergame and survival horror produced similar levels of flow experiences, but survival horror induced greater cognitive workload, while the exergame elicited stronger cardiovascular activation. Both genres showed autonomic engagement through distinct physiological pathways. Findings highlight specific cognitive and physiological demands across the two VR gaming genres.
Virtual reality has become more cost effective for training in microgravity, however, its effectiveness depends on how immersed and present users feel in the virtual environment. Participants in this study experienced simulated microgravity in a virtual reality environment while standing and while suspended. After each condition, they completed surveys measuring immersion and presence. These surveys detected no differences between conditions. However, additional items showed that participants felt more weightless in the suspended condition. This highlights the importance of selecting appropriate surveys that match the specific characteristics of the virtual reality environment being studied, especially for extreme conditions like microgravity.
