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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 73 records · Page 4

Nonlinear and Digital Man-machine Control Systems Modeling

An adaptive modeling technique is examined by which controllers can be synthesized to provide corrective dynamics to a human operator's mathematical model in closed loop control systems. The technique utilizes a class of Liapunov functions formulated for this purpose, Liapunov's stability criterion and a model-reference system configuration. The Liapunov function is formulated to posses variable characteristics to take into consideration the identification dynamics. The time derivative of the Liapunov function generate the identification and control laws for the mathematical model system. These laws permit the realization of a controller which updates the human operator's mathematical model parameters so that model and human operator produce the same response when subjected to the same stimulus. A very useful feature is the development of a digital computer program which is easily implemented and modified concurrent with experimentation. The program permits the modeling process to interact with the experimentation process in a mutually beneficial way.

Mekel, R.↗

Development of task network models of human performance in microgravity

This paper discusses the utility of task-network modeling for quantifying human performance variability in microgravity. The data are gathered for: (1) improving current methodologies for assessing human performance and workload in the operational space environment; (2) developing tools for assessing alternative system designs; and (3) developing an integrated set of methodologies for the evaluation of performance degradation during extended duration spaceflight. The evaluation entailed an analysis of the Remote Manipulator System payload-grapple task performed on many shuttle missions. Task-network modeling can be used as a tool for assessing and enhancing human performance in man-machine systems, particularly for modeling long-duration manned spaceflight. Task-network modeling can be directed toward improving system efficiency by increasing the understanding of basic capabilities of the human component in the system and the factors that influence these capabilities.

Diaz, Manuel F.↗

Free-flying teleoperator requirements and conceptual design.

A teleoperator, as defined by NASA, is a remotely controlled cybernetic man-machine system designed to augment and extend man's sensory, manipulative, and cognitive capabilities. Teleoperator systems can fulfill an important function in the Space Shuttle program. They can retrieve automated satellites for refurbishment and reuse. Cargo can be transferred over short or large distances and orbital operations can be supported. A requirements analysis is discussed, giving attention to the teleoperator spacecraft, docking and stowage systems, display and controls, propulsion, guidance, navigation, control, the manipulators, the video system, the electrical power, and aspects of communication and data management. Questions of concept definition and evaluation are also examined.

Onega, G. T.↗

From pilot's associate to satellite controller's associate

Associate technology is an emerging engineering discipline wherein intelligent automation can significantly augment the performance of man-machine systems. An associate system is one that monitors operator activity and adapts its operational behavior accordingly. Associate technology is most effectively applied when mapped into management of the human-machine interface and display-control loop in typical manned systems. This paper addresses the potential for application of associate technology into the arena of intelligent command and control of satellite systems, from diagnosis of onboard and onground of satellite systems fault conditions, to execution of nominal satellite control functions. Rather than specifying a specific solution, this paper draws parallels between the Pilot's Associate concept and the domain of satellite control.

Neyland, David L.↗

Remotely Manned Systems for operation and exploration in space

A brief overview is presented of Remotely Manned Systems with emphasis on their use as tools for exploration and operation in space. Remotely Manned Systems missions and functions in space are described and classified in relation to other existing or planned space systems. Problem areas of large-scale man-machine systems are identified based on experience in the Surveyor program, the Mariner 9 Mars orbiter project and the Apollo program. The effects of communication time delay on system performance are investigated using the average velocity of a Martian rover as performance indicator. A substantial performance increase can be achieved by providing certain autonomous capabilities to the remote system.

Heer, E.↗

Tracking performance under time sharing conditions with a digit processing task: A feedback control theory analysis

A one dimensional compensatory tracking task and a digit processing reaction time task were combined in a three phase experiment designed to investigate tracking performance in time sharing. Adaptive techniques, elaborate feedback devices, and on line standardization procedures were used to adjust task difficulty to the ability of each individual subject and manipulate time sharing demands. Feedback control analysis techniques were employed in the description of tracking performance. The experimental results show that when the dynamics of a system are constrained, in such a manner that man machine system stability is no longer a major concern of the operator, he tends to adopt a first order control describing function, even with tracking systems of higher order. Attention diversion to a concurrent task leads to an increase in remnant level, or nonlinear power. This decrease in linearity is reflected both in the output magnitude spectra of the subjects, and in the linear fit of the amplitude ratio functions.

Gopher, D.↗

Pathfinder: Humans in space

Viewgraphs are presented on the Pathfinder program. Information is given on human exploration of the solar system, technical requirements interfaces, program objectives, space suits, human performance, man-machine systems, space habitats, life support systems, and artificial gravity

Anderson, John L.↗

Models of human problem solving - Detection, diagnosis, and compensation for system failures

The role of the human operator as a problem solver in man-machine systems such as vehicles, process plants, transportation networks, etc. is considered. Problem solving is discussed in terms of detection, diagnosis, and compensation. A wide variety of models of these phases of problem solving are reviewed and specifications for an overall model outlined.

Rouse, W. B.↗

The psychological certificate of the computer

A systems structural approach is reported to study the operator for a computerized man machine system psychologically in order to obtain relative estimates for his performance in the particular system he serves. Considered are the reliability of sensorimotor control functions for the reconstructed system and its indices according to the level of effectiveness of the operator's accomplishment of intellectual operations.

Mileryan, Y. A.↗

Issues in rule identification and logical induction

The relationship between language and empirical fitting of data is discussed. The production system is presented as an appropriate description of human behavior in Man-Machine systems. Issues arising in the identification of rules from data are examined. Rules identified through logical generalization are shown to be equivocal. Difficulties arising from the use of logic-based procedures with human performance data containing errors are explored. Problems relating to rule sets which are not disjoint are discussed and a solution presented. Significant testing issues are raised for rule identification and a procedure based on controlling contrivedness is presented. A synthesis of data and knowledge-based approaches is suggested as a remedy to many of the difficulties discussed.

Lewis, C. M.↗

Re-Design and Beat Testing of the Man-Machine Integration Design and Analysis System: MIDAS

The Man-machine Design and Analysis System (MIDAS) is a human factors design and analysis system that combines human cognitive models with 3D CAD models and rapid prototyping and simulation techniques. MIDAS allows designers to ask 'what if' types of questions early in concept exploration and development prior to actual hardware development. The system outputs predictions of operator workload, situational awareness and system performance as well as graphical visualization of the cockpit designs interacting with models of the human in a mission scenario. Recently, MIDAS was re-designed to enhance functionality and usability. The goals driving the redesign include more efficient processing, GUI interface, advances in the memory structures, implementation of external vision models and audition. These changes were detailed in an earlier paper. Two Beta test sites with diverse applications have been chosen. One Beta test site is investigating the development of a new airframe and its interaction with the air traffic management system. The second Beta test effort will investigate 3D auditory cueing in conjunction with traditional visual cueing strategies including panel-mounted and heads-up displays. The progress and lessons learned on each of these projects will be discussed.

Shively, R. Jay↗