Metaprototyping: System Prototyping for ATC System Development

This paper identifies a significant emerging problem in the definition and development of future ATC system enhancements. Metaprototyping (prototyping at the system level) in the Integration and Interaction Laboratory (I-Lab) will allow the FAA to initiate a new process for RE&D of the future NAS that will support the active involvement of system operators and users. Initial simulation studies have begun and will continue to address interaction among planned, future ATC automation programs in support of the people within the NAS. Preliminary results form these studies and the process for the conduct of metaprototyping will be described. The key difference between the I-Lab effort and previous prototyping is the integration of concepts, models and system elements within the context of the future system as opposed to prototyping of individual components or system elements. The I-lab is a tool for systems engineering and research activities to envision the future and guide development to achieve that vision. At each step the resulting information will be used to support the FAA's efforts to establish and maintain a future system definition and relevant research and development programs to achieve enhanced efficiency for the end-users, and NAS resources and personnel. In addition, the process by which system prototyping is effected will be established including the roles of RE&D organizations, outside researchers, operational personnel, and system users.