Pilot workload monitoring and adaptive aviation automation: a solution space-based approach

Abstract

Motivation -- Pilot workload is an important constraint in designing novel flight deck automation systems. We aim to provide context awareness to adaptive automation systems by analyzing the constraints of the work domain. This context awareness can be used by the automation to adapt its functionality and human-machine interface on-line; in such a way that pilot workload is reduced. Research approach -- The problem of developing adaptive automation to support pilots in dealing with other aircraft is chosen as the focal point. The approach entails that the functional constraints of the surrounding traffic can be captured using a so-called 'solution space' analysis. The solution space allows a prediction of the complexity of a particular traffic situation to be made. Experiments showed that complexity is strongly related to the perceived workload. When complexity is high, workload may be high as well and in these situations the automation can decide to provide other ways of supporting the pilot. Findings/Design -- The solution space analysis has been shown to be able to predict the complexity of a traffic situation and therefore operator workload. In turn, this allows for adaptive automation strategies to mitigate the workload. Take away message -- Analysis of the solution space properties can provide a metric for the complexity of the operational context. When complexity is higher, support tools can be activated to reduce the workload of pilots.