Abstract : An evaluation was conducted on a generic UAV operator interface simulation testbed to explore the effects of levels-of-automation (LOAs) and automation reliability on the number of simulated UAVs that could be supervised by a single operator. LOAs included Management-by-Consent (operator consent required) and Management-by-Exception (action automatic unless operator declines). Results indicated that the tasks were manageable, but performance decreased with increased number of UAVs supervised and reduced automation reliability. Performance with the two LOAs varied little and did not show a consistent trend across measures. Analyses indicated that participants typically did not utilize the automation. A follow-on study was conducted that employed shorter LOA time limits. Results showed participants' workload and confidence ratings were less favorable for the shorter limits and they still exercised the automation rarely, although more frequently. Further research is needed to explore the complex relationship between LOAs, time limits, perception of workload, vigilance effects, and confidence.
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