It is said that 3 out of 4 aircraft accidents are the result of human error. Clearly, man is the weak link in the interface between man and machine. The study of this relationship and finding ways to make the two work more harmoniously is known as human factors science. At the heart of this science is the SHEL (software, hardware, environment, liveware) model.
Software-Liveware is interaction between the human and intangible components of operating the machine. For example, the font and size of checklist items, different GPS systems have different procedures to follow, and the layout of glass-cockpit instruments, are all factors that could potentially lead to an accident if the pilot was unfamiliar with those for a specific airplane.
Software-Liveware is interaction between the human and intangible components of operating the machine. For example, the font and size of checklist items, different GPS systems have different procedures to follow, and the layout of glass-cockpit instruments, are all factors that could potentially lead to an accident if the pilot was unfamiliar with those for a specific airplane.
Hardware-Liveware relates to how a person physically fits into the machine. In the early years of aviation, the machine was built and then man was forced to adapt to the machine. Now, after years of research and study into human factors, it was found that accidents could be greatly reduced if the machine was built to fit the man, and not vice versa. Through designing cockpits around the human element, switches could more easily be reached, flight controls more easily manipulated, and visibility through cockpit windows increased.
Environment-Liveware comes from the fact that humans operate best at 1 G and 1 atmosphere of pressure. As aircraft began increasing in speed and altitude the deficiencies of the human body became apparent. The study of this interaction aims to allow humans to more comfortably operate in cold, noisy, and extreme environments through the application of human sciences. Pressurized cabins, G-suits, oxygen equipment, and air conditioning are all targeted towards the E-L relationship.
Liveware-Liveware is the most complicated of all the relationships because it involves the interaction of two people. This can come in many aviation forms including the use of a two pilot crew operating an airliner, the pilot & controller interaction in a GA aircraft, or between a maintenance technician and an aircraft owner. How effectively people interact at all levels of aviation has a huge impact on the safety of flight.
Wells, Alexander, & Rodrigues, Clarence. (2003). Commercial aviation safety. McGraw-Hill Professional.
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