Decision-making problems in industrial control tasks

Abstract

This paper considers the design of industrial control tasks with regard to the human operator's decision-making skills and limitations. Four control tasks are described to provide illustrative material for a number of typical problems. The problems discussed are the need for memory and planning aids, the choice between on-line and off-line control, workload peaking, conflicting objectives, and the introduction of computer aids. Practical approaches towards minimising the difficulties and improving the performance of the human operator are discussed.