Simulating Human Performance of Task Sharing: Modeling Task Delay and Delegation of Authority

Abstract

In systems that support dynamic allocation of work across human and autonomous agents, analyzing the implications of task sharing can support operational concept development. Computational tools should address not only the taskwork but also the teamwork emerging from the allocation. This paper describes a computational human agent model that manages work by executing or delaying the execution of the task, or by delegating activities to other agents. The agent considers its capacity and strategies for delegation to coordinate with other agents. Using a framework for simulating multiple types of agents, case studies apply this computational human agent model to the evaluation of a concept of operation that distributes work across an air traffic controller capable of delegating and flight deck crews. The case studies show how capacity changes agent utilization and delegation strategies redistribute taskwork across multiple agents while creating teamwork demands.