Understanding Usability Requirements of Electronic Devices for the Fire Service

Listzwan, Sarah

Student Work

Understanding Usability Requirements of Electronic Devices for the Fire Service

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To facilitate the implementation of improved gas sensing technology for use in firefighting overhaul operations the environmental, technological, and user requirements of the gas sensing device were explored. The primary objective of this research was to determine the end-user requirements in a gas sensing device and produce an interface prototype to balance the user requirements with the technological and environmental requirements. The user and environmental requirements were determined through surveying members of the fire service about their experiences using gas sensors during overhaul operations, as well as their requirements for a sensor device (weight, size, etc.). The technological requirements were determined through written questions sent to members of a research team working on the sensor technology. This information was then used to develop a prototype interface incorporating user requirements, while balancing environmental and technological requirements to facilitate the adoption of this innovative technology. The survey was distributed to a variety of members of the firefighting community, including both career and volunteer fire fighting divisions throughout the United States. Participants were asked to comment on their previous experiences using toxic gas sensors during overhaul operations. They were also asked about their notification, interface, and design preferences and requirements in a toxic gas sensor. The results of the survey were then analyzed to determine key features and their respective importance levels to the final users of the device. These features, as well as the technical requirements determined though the questionnaire, were then incorporated into the final design of the interface design, which was constructed. The final prototype while not containing the gas sensing technology, mimics the user-desired response to various conditions. The feedback from the survey was used to determine the technological design, as well as the user requirements of the device.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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