A Cognitive Task Analysis to Elicit Preliminary Requirements for an Automated UAV Verification & Planning System

Abstract

A future vision for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) includes single operators managing multiple UAVs. Enabling operator management of multiple UAVs may be aided by automated planning systems that incorporate the strategies and constraints preferred by operators. To derive an understanding of these constraints, a table-top exercise was developed and a cognitive task analysis (CTA) was conducted with subject matter experts (SMEs) operating four UAVs in a dynamic mission scenario. Results indicated general consensus among SMEs on high level goals, prioritization of tasks, allocation of UAVs to tasks, and UAV flight paths and sensor parameters for fulfilling each task. These results will be directly incorporated into an automated verification and planning system. Participants also indicated preferred ways the automation would be most helpful, such as tracking and displaying mission details, and generating multiple, feasible plans that can be reviewed and modified before executing, echoing previous studies.