Analyzing Human Machine Interaction and Interfaces through Model Based System Engineering Practices

Abstract

Abstract.As systems continue to grow in scale and complexity, human machine interactions and the human machine interface (HMI) become a crucial consideration in overall system design. In complex systems, humans are often part of the complex system as opposed to being just users of the system. The human mental model, work instructions, and procedures are key attributes that a system architect needs to analyze to ensure the success of the overall human-machine system. Model Based System Engineering (MBSE) techniques potentially offer new ways for system architects and engineers to conceptualize and analyze HMI requirements and use the findings to specify its design.

Integrated Human Factors Views in the Unified Architecture Framework

“…The data captured can then be used to improve the workload analysis by adding real data to the tasking network analyses. (Orellana, 2012) This requires the use of special purpose analysis tools to integrate with the model. Some examples of possible integrations are listed below.…”

“…It will provide suitable mechanisms for decision making to ensure that this significant cost driver is addressed up front (Baker, Stewart, Pogue, & Ramotar, 2008). Orellana, Madni, (2012) looked at integrating SysML and Human Factors extensions for Human Machine Interaction Analysis and Fault Tolerant Design. "To be able to architect dependable systems with high reliability and availability, SysML semantics need to be extended to capture fault events and fault analysis methods such as Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) and Failure Modes Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA).…”

“…These extensions will allow behavioural constructs to be incorporated into traditional behavioural and structural artefacts, thereby allowing faults to be analysed within the context of specific operational scenarios." (Orellana, Madni, 2012)…”

“…In particular, human behavioural considerations and their effects on the overall system must be addressed upfront and throughout the system life cycle. (Orellana, 2012) As human roles vary from being that of a system operator or user, to an agent in a complex system, human contributions to total system performance and HMI requirements become significantly more complex and varied (Madni, 2011). It is no longer a question of analysing HMI from an ergonomics perspective, but analysing how the behaviour of the human and system elements affect each other in a variety of circumstances (Hollnagel & Woods, 1999;Madni, 2010Madni, , 2011.…”