Measuring self-adaptive UAV operators' load-shedding strategies under high workload

Abstract

This article focuses on the experimental identification of changes in human behaviour patterns of UAV-operators guiding multiple UAVs from a helicopter cockpit. These changes are based on self-regulation mechanisms of the operators to adapt to the current task and workload demands. Main objective of the use of these so called self-adaptive strategies is to avoid overload situations, and to retard exceeding capacity limits, to maintain overall acceptable performance as long as possible. Expressed by shedding and deferring tasks of lesser importance, or the relaxation of self-imposed criteria, these strategies lead to an observable change of human behaviour patterns, prior to grave performance decrements. This article describes a laboratory experiment utilising a virtual flight simulator to stimulate operator's workload and observe their mitigation strategies by means of gaze detection and a detailed interaction monitoring. Using the observed behaviour changes in an assistant system as indicator for high workload situations of the operator, it shall be possible to support the operator prior the occurrence of errors. © 2011 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.