Operational Console Modernization Tool
Navy SBIR FY2014.1


Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2014.1
Topic No.: N141-049
Topic Title: Operational Console Modernization Tool
Proposal No.: N141-049-0189
Firm: HF Designworks, inc.
PO Box 19911
Boulder, Colorado 80308
Contact: Scott Scheff
Phone: (303) 945-4920
Web Site: www.hfdesignworks.com
Abstract: In this proposal, HF Designworks (HFDW) and Alion Science and Technology (Alion) describe an approach for developing a concept for an operational console modernization tool. This tool will assess potential console designs in terms of several key factors: their adherence to human factors design principles, the probability that operators will notice key information changes in a timely manner, the time required to complete key task sequences, and the workload experienced by operators when interacting with the console. The Phase 1 effort will include identifying requirements for such a tool, interviewing Navy subject matter experts to identify key concerns, and performing "best of breed" analyses of existing modeling tools to select relevant features for inclusion in this tool. Phase 1 will result in a plan and paper-based prototype of such a tool. In Phase 2, this system will be implemented and tested. The goal of this project is to develop a principle- and model-based software tool that allows Navy personnel to evaluate and compare potential console designs in terms of their expected effects on operator performance before these systems are built.
Benefits: A variety of specific benefits are expected using our proposed approach. The initial primary benefit will be the creation of a useful and usable tool to support Navy personnel in evaluating potential console designs. The long-term benefit will be supporting the Navy in easily identifying, early in the design process, those potential console designs that can best support operator performance.

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