Experimental Study of Automation to Support Time-Critical Replanning Decisions

Abstract

An experimental study was performed to evaluate several types of automation for time-pressured replanning tasks. Subjects modified a two-dimensional route using waypoint manipulation on a computer screen in response to a sudden change in the displayed environment while having access to one of four types of automation. In addition to a baseline case without automation, subjects received automated assistance that either reduced hazard exposure, ensured meeting time-to-target and fuel constraints, or combined hazard avoidance with time and fuel constraints. Time pressure was imposed by requiring the route to be replanned within four different time limits of less than one minute. Results show that the benefit of automation decreased as time pressure was relaxed. Subjects showed reticence to deviate from highly automated route suggestions even when significant improvements were still possible. In addition, partial automation induced more errors than in cases with no automation, highlighting the potential negative effects of introducing automation.

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