The development of specifications for an automated monitoring system interface associated with aircraft condition

• Published in: The International journal of aviation psychology 1999-01, Vol.9 (2), p.175-187
• Main Authors: Deaton, JE, Glenn, F A
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1050-8414
• DOI: 10.1207/s15327108ijap0902_6

Because of the complexity and interconnectedness of aircraft subsystems, considerable interpretation is required to determine the implications of conventional system warnings and to decide on the appropriate course of action to ameliorate a fault condition. This article focuses on the case of mechanical fault conditions in rotorcraft. Until recently, only a few simple sensors (e.g., oil pressure and temperature, oil debris sensor) were provided to signal mechanical faults. However, a variety of new sensors and analyzers have become available recently, under the general rubric of health and usage monitoring systems, which purport to provide more sensitive identifications of faults along with the promise of future extensions to fault diagnosis and prognosis as well. A motion-based simulator was used to gather performance data associated with air crew responses to a variety of mechanical faults using current cockpit instrumentation. Participants were then interviewed regarding their information requirements for using new diagnostic systems to mitigate in-flight mechanical system emergencies. Results gave initial support for a taxonomy of air crew cognitive activities. This classification scheme is being used in ongoing work to design and evaluate information aids for rotorcraft air crews.