Analysis Techniques For Man-Machine Systems Design

NATO UNCLASSIFIED-3 - AC1243(Panel-8WR17Volume l4. This information must be considered in terms of the variance which it represents,and viewed in terms of the functions and tasks the operators must accomplish. In this context,the design problem can be expressed as follows: ensure that manufactured hardware andsoftware can be used by, and provide protection for, the maximum number of individuals from apopulation which is quite varied. That is why, the more complex products become, the more it isnecessary to use special methods to take human factors into account in the design anddevelopment of those products. This is the main task of human engineering (known in somecountries as human factors in design or ergonomics) which involves consideration of the relevanthuman factors issues, the methods for analysis such as those described herein, and the meansand the scheduling of effort to integrate the results in design and development of hardware andsoftware.5. Human engineering should be involved in the search for solutions which permit theoptimal use of products (satisfaction of the need) by potential users (the human resource) whilerespecting the entirety of the latter in physical, psychological and moral terms. The benefits ofhuman engineering can be very significant. Among them are reduced errors and reduction ofuncertainty about how the system will operate, reduced system costs (both acquisition and lifecycle),reduced training costs, and manpower reduction compared to existing systems. Forexample, a US Navy Research Advisory Committee estimated that the proper application ofhuman engineering can result in a 20% reduction in manpower in Navy surface ships. Efforts inprogress in other navies provide further evidence of the gains which can be achieved by effectiveintegration of humans and machines. The German, Norwegian and Netherlands navies all haveactive programmes to produce new ships with extensive attention to human-machine interfaces.The Netherlands Walrus II submarine has a crew size of 50, reduced from 70 persons in aprevious, similar Zwaardvis class. It will have no decrease in capabilities. but some increase intraining requirements. Similar results are being pursued in the new "M-Frigate" which has acomplement of 156 compared to 190 in the older ST class. Considerable use is being made ofautomated monitoring and control systems. computerized displays, extensive man-machinedesign and testing, and on-board training and cross-training.( Mlssloneed ) | (umnanreoc)k J < ontradeofsenvironmentFigure 1.3: Factors Influencing a design conceptXr A TT XT T 1-TAvvTTTF)F