Design and evaluation of an optical disk handling tool for a cleanroom environment.

In this paper, we present an application of engineering and ergonomics principles in the design of an optical disk handling tool for use in a cleanroom environment. A qualitative model which considers the task, operator, machines and environment (TOME model) was utilized to guide the design process. A 'before-after' evaluation found a significant improvement in the proposed tool over the existing tool with respect to mechanical, biomechanical and subjective measures. Product yield has improved considerably, as measured after the implementation of the proposed tool in December 1989 until the end of the observation period in June 1991.

Comparative investigation of the relationship between cerebral indices and learning abilities.

Indices of cerebral development were computed for 23 different species in order to assess their capacity to accurately reflect differences in learning ability. The resulting correlations between index values and performance on a variety of tasks strongly suggest that this approach may offer the best type of continuum for the comparative study of learning. It was further suggested that if the index proposed by Jerison were expanded to reflect possible neuronal connections, a more powerful measure might be obtained.