Achievability Control Theory for Supervisory Computer-Human Systems

The objective of the proposed project is the development of technology for more efficient and effective human-computer supervision of complex systems. Systems that combine humans and automation in a synergistic or cooperative manner may be termed hybrid systems. Hybrid systems offer advantages over both purely automated systems and purely manual systems in many circumstances. However, future hybrid systems will be even more complex than contemporary ones. This gives rise to a serious need to develop methods for integrating humans more closely-and more efficiently-than is possible now within hybrid systems. We believe the proposed approach offers significant advantages in that it is an integrated solution to existing needs for adaptive automation, considering the capabilities of automated systems, human users, and task or mission contingencies within a framework with strong conceptual, mathematical, and empirical foundations.