The role of computers in handling aerospace systems human factors task data. AMRL-TR-65-206.

The characteristics of a computer based data system for handling human factors task information generated in support of advanced system development are described. On the basis of information gathered from users and generators of data at representative Government and contractor installations, the current and potential uses of computers were assessed to determine the desirable characteristics for a computerized human factors task data handling system. The proposed data handling system will assist the human factors specialist and system design engineers in the design and development of systems by providing them with means for: {1) drawing them closer to the data through a user-oriented system, (2) comparing data generated throughout the life-cycle of an advanced system and across systems, (3) analyzing data and conducting man-machine simulations, and (4) insuring that data are made available on a selective query and a timely basis. These objectives are met within the framework of a data system concept referred to as CENTRAL. The functions of CENTRAL are: (1) data storage and retrieval, {Z) data processing, (3) computer program maintenance, and (4) system operational manual maintenance. The forms of data to be housed within CENTRAL, the methods for storage, processing and retrieval, and the nature and configuration of the data handling are discussed, l_ecomxnendations are made for a follow-on prototype data handling system to be developed and exercised with actual advanced system data. The prototype system would be responsive to data which are best stored within the computer, and data which do not lend themselves to storage within a digital computer, such as data of a pictorial nature.