Deminer Decision Making: Criteria and Models

Abstract

This paper discusses the application of signal detection theory to improving the efficiency and safety of humanitarian demining. Following an introductory description of the current compelling world-wide needs for improved demining technology, an analytical model is proposed. The model, based on conventional ideal observer or signal detection theory, assumes that one or set of detection instruments yield varying degrees of evidence of a mine at a given location. Given relative costs for missed detections and for false alarms, plus some probability estimates, the model specifies that degree of evidence at which the given location should “ideally” be treated as a live mine and efforts made to remove it or destroy it in place. It is suggested that this normative model can be implemented in a computer chip as a decision aid and be attached to any detection device. This would then assist the user in deciding when to treat a signal as indicative of an actual mine (risking that time will be wasted digging up some metal or plastic that is not a mine), and when to assume that the signal is not a mine (risking that it is in fact a mine which may subsequently be set off and cause injury or death).