MAN-MACHINE SYSTEM STUDIES,
Abstract
A mathematical model of operator performance has been developed for use in digital computer simulation of complex man-machine systems. The model, which is formulated around a distinctive set of hypotheses regarding operator performance in a display-monitoring task, is currently being validated by comparison of model predictions with psychophysical data gathered from laboratory experiments. The mathematical model is expressed in Boolean algebra. The dependencies and relationships between machine variables and operator variables are thus uniquely expressed by symbolic logic operators. Simulation of the model is done on the IBM 7094 digital computer by a program known as the Discrete Network Simulator. The output is a time history of events in the system, such as machine inputs and operator control actions. A special laboratory test apparatus has been constructed and used to gather the empirical data for model verification. This apparatus consists of a control/display console driven by an analog computer, with provision for a programmable stimulus source to the human operator. Exploratory studies have shown that computer simulation is an efficient and valuable method for validating man-machine task analyses. A structured technique has been devised to accomplish this, using selected portions of the mathematical model of operator performance. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 15, 1964
- Accession Number
- AD0660647
Entities
People
- L. T. Gregg
Organizations
- General Dynamics