Human Engineering Process in Systems Design and Integration

This paper discusses a top-down analysis methodology for the design, development and evaluation of advanced technological systems like those being considered for Free Flight, the Advanced General Aviation Transport Experiment (AGATE), or the High Speed Civil Transport (HSCT) program. In order to ensure a safe and efficient introduction and integration of those technologies, it is generally accepted that human factors engineering concerns must be raised and addressed from the beginning and throughout the research and development cycle. History indicates that human factors engineering concerns were normally addressed too late, contributing significantly to the well known “automation problem” in commercial aviation. In response to the potential for negative side effects advanced technology design guidelines have been developed. This paper focuses on one such guideline concerning sound systems engineering principles. A current project sponsored by the FAA's Civil Aeromedical Institute is being introduced as an example.