The Allocation of Functions in Man-Machine Systems: A Perspective and Literature Review.

摘要

The report reviews the literature relevant to allocation of functions and presents a procedure for the allocation process applicable to nuclear power plant control rooms. An historical perspective of man's relationship with technology is given as background. Methods and models that have been developed to aid the allocation process are then considered, followed by examples of real-world applications. The relationship of allocation of function to the system development process is outlined. The report then turns to the proposed procedure of the allocation process. This procedure, conducted in a series of steps, leads to decisions on what roles and functions man and machine will play in the complex man-machine system under consideration. These decisions are based on criteria developed from the literature on human and machine capabilities and limitations. The resultant hypothesized allocations are tested against environmental, system, and psychological constraints. Consideration is also given to human operator acceptance of automation, a crucial question with the increased use of computers and computer-based aids. An example of how this procedure might be applied to one aspect of the nuclear area is detailed.