John A. Wise

V.David Hopkin

Paul Stager

Despite its increasing importance, the verification and validation of the human-machine interface is perhaps the most overlooked aspect of system development. Although much has been written about the design and developmentprocess, very little organized information is available on how to verifyand validate highly complex and highly coupled dynamic systems. Inability toevaluate such systems adequately may become the limiting factor in our ability to employ systems that our technology and knowledge allow us to design. This volume, based on a NATO Advanced Science Institute held in 1992, is designed to provide guidance for the verification and validation of all highly complex and coupled systems. Air traffic control isused an an example to ensure that the theory is described in terms that will allow its implementation, but the results can be applied to all complex and coupled systems. The volume presents the knowledge and theory ina format that will allow readers from a wide variety of backgrounds to apply it to the systems for which they are responsible. The emphasis is on domains where significant advances have been made in the methods of identifying potential problems and in new testing methods and tools. Also emphasized are techniques to identify the assumptions on which a system is built and to spot their weaknesses.

Verification and Validation of Complex Systems: Human Factors Issues

V. David Hopkin

Much has happened to certification and to human factors during the past few years. In this volume, the editors and other specialists discuss the topic of human factors applied to certification. They focus on core topics in the certification process that have emerged in the study of product certification in high-tech industries. The editors' purpose is to document advances in the study of certification processes defined largely by the 1993 international conference on the application of human factors principles to the study of product certification in man-machine systems. Although the book focuses mostly on certification in large, man-machine systems, such as aeronautics, its principles also apply to other high tech industries, such as medicine and computers. An introductory paper and a group of papers presenting propositions and philosophies about human factors contribute to a framework for human factors certification. The papers in this volume: * adopt a more direct approach to certification activities, * deal with aspects of human-machine integration, * address topics that should feature in any established human factors certification of advanced aviation systems, * use ideas that already exist in aviation as a basis for discussing certification issues, * consider issues that arise in the certification of complex future systems, and * describe some current characteristics of human factors as a discipline that would influence its application to certification.

Human Factors in Certification

Peter A. Hancock

Mustapha Mouloua

Dennis A. Vincenzi

Measure twice, cut once. Although applicable to all areas of human factors research, the old adage is especially relevant to simulation and training. As a tool, simulation is an aid to the imagination, however, if incorrectly or inadequately used, it can lead to inaccurate outcomes that not only limit the possibilities but potentially cause harm. A comprehensive overview of the topic from a human factor perspective, Human Factors in Simulation and Training not only reflects the state-of-the art but also integrates the literature on simulation into a cohesive resource. The editors have collected chapters on a wide variety of topics, beginning with theory and application in areas ranging from traditional training to augmented reality to virtual reality. This coverage includes surface ships, submarines, naval aviation, commercial aviation, space, and medicine. The theory based section focuses on human factors aspects of simulation and training ranging from the history of simulators and training devices, to future trends in simulation from both a civilian and military perspective. The chapters expand on concepts regarding simulator usage particularly with respect to the validity and functionality of simulators as training devices. They contain in depth discussions of specific issues including fidelity, interfaces and control devices, transfer of training, simulator sickness, effects of motion in simulated systems, and virtual reality. As more, and more sophisticated, simulation tools and training technologies become available, a complete understanding of how to use them appropriately will be even more crucial. Elucidating theory and application, the book addresses numerous issues and concepts pertaining to human factors in simulation and training, making this volume an important addition to the bookshelf of any human factors professional.

Human Factors in Simulation and Training

Marvin L. Smith

In recent years, increases in the amount and changes in the distribution of air traffic have been very dramatic and are continuing. The need for changes in the current air traffic systems is equally clear. While automation is generally accepted as a method of improving system safety and performance, high levels of automation in complex human-machine systems can have a negative effect on total system performance and have been identified as contributing factors in many accidents and failures. Those responsible for designing the advanced air traffic control systems to be implemented throughout the alliance during the next decade need to be aware of recent progress concerning the most effective application of automation and artificial intelligence in human-computer systems. This volume gives the proceedings of the NATO Advanced Study Institute held in Maratea, Italy, June 18-29, 1990, at which these issues were discussed.

John A. Wise

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