Operator Workload in the F-l5E: A Comparison of TAWL and Micro Saint Computer Simulations.
Abstract
The mental workload experienced by the crewmember occupying the back seat of the F-15E during a target acquisition mission was simulated via two computer modeling tools: Task Analysis/Workload (TAWL) and the microcomputer version of Systems Analysis of Integrated Networks of Tasks (Micro Saint). The primary objectives were to evaluate the similarity of the two modeling tools and compare their relative ease of use. The scenario consisted of a ten-task target acquisition mission whose goal was to detect and destroy a Scud missile target. Output from the two models was highly similar in terms of overall patterns of workload throughout the mission. In both instances, workload was greatest during the last two minutes of the mission when final decision regarding target presence and location and weapon release needed - to be made. Estimates of overall and peak workload from each model were also indistinguishable. The one area in which the models differed was in the component workload estimates obtained for four of the ten functions during the mission. The Micro Saint estimates were consistently somewhat higher than those provided by TAWL, an outcome largely attributable to the differential manner in which the transition periods between tasks are handled by the two models. In sum, the two modeling tools yielded similar results in an overall or gross level, but differed on a fine-grained level, indicating that Micro Saint is much more versatile and flexible than TAWL.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA327807
Entities
People
- Judi E. See
- Michael A. Vidulich