Browsing by Author "Williams, Vicki Higginbotham"

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    Isometric forces transmitted by the digits: data collection using a standardized protocol
    Williams, Vicki Higginbotham (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1988)
    Data collection on isometric forces exerted by means of the digits, is a virtually untapped research area. However, such data would prove particularly useful in areas such as hand-tool and control design, and also in medical evaluation. A standardized protocol is necessary if a sound, useful data base is to be built. This study developed such a protocol and data were collected using the defined protocol. The study also showed that occupational level (defined by tools and controls used) and gender both had significant effects on certain strength exertions of the digits. Therefore the appropriate data must be collected, depending on the intended use and user population. Regression equations were produced which predicted the strength exertions using anthropometric measurements which are commonly available. Although some particular exertions were not well predicted, the potential of prediction was verified.
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    A Survey of Motorcyclists: Data for Research Design and Instrumentation
    Williams, Vicki Higginbotham; McLaughlin, Shane B. (National Surface Transportation Safety Center for Excellence, 2013-03-01)
    The results of a survey of 424 motorcyclists are presented in order to provide information for motorcycle safety research. Survey questions address topics related to rider demographics, riding experience (years, mileage, and trip description), motorcycle characteristics, rider training, safety issues (maintenance, equipment, and crash data), and respondent interest (willingness, reasons for hesitation, and acceptable compensation). The respondents' interest in participating in an on-road motorcycle study is analyzed relative to the other questions, and deterrents to participation, as well as desired compensation, are also discussed in order to design such studies to encourage participation. Results of a cluster analysis are also presented to theorize possible categorizations of riders in terms of the collected variables. This information will be a useful starting block in the design and execution of motorcycle safety research.