Aspects of automation mode confusion

Abstract

Complex systems such as commercial aircraft are difficult for operators to manage. Designers, intending to simplify the interface between the operator and the system, have introduced automation to assist the operator. In most cases, the automation has helped the operator, but at times operator confusion as to what the automation is doing has created dangerous situations that lead to property damage or loss of life. This problem, known as mode confusion, has been difficult to analyze and thus solutions tend to be reactive instead of proactive. This thesis examines mode confusion as an emergent property of the operator and the automation. It develops models of the automation and the operator and then studies their emergent behavior. It then applies the model in a case study.