Methodology for Evaluation of Automation Impacts on Tactical Command and Control (C2) Systems

Abstract

Abstract : This effort concerns the research and development of a prototype methodology to assess the impacts of automation on Air Force tactical Command and Control (C2) systems and operators. The approach uses an object-oriented software paradigm to encode of human operator performance, on screen C2 interfaces, and scenarios. Specifically, the prototype methodology provides an environment whereby the analyst can manipulate tactical scenarios and equipment characteristics as they relate to the Control Reporting Center and its automation initiatives. These configurations can then be exercised in conjunction with the human performance models via time-event simulation. Thus, human performance data and operational results are available for examination and, hence, potentially useful as guidance for automation initiatives. This final report describes the introduction of a human-in-loop capability. The methodology originally contained an open-loop emulation of five key C2 operators and models of their visual, auditory, cognitive, and psychomotor (VACP) respectively. Through voice input and output, as well as touch-panel input, an actual operator can now interact with the emulated operators in a real-time, closed-loop capacity. Thus, human performance data collection and validation of the VACP models are viable.