The role of human-computer interaction in design of new train traffic control systems

Bengt Sandblad, Arne W. Andersson, Ingemar Frej and Anders Gideon (Swedish National Rail Administration, Head Office, Engineering Department).

The role of Human-Computer Interaction in design of new Train Traffic Control Systems Bengt Sandblad, Arne W. Andersson World Congress on Railway Research, 16-19 November 1997, Florence, Italy. In proceedings volume A, pp. 777-783.

Abstract

The rapid technical development of train traffic, and of the control systems, makes it necessary to study the interactions between the operators, e.g. the train dispatchers, and the technical information and control systems. Increasing train speed, and more dense traffic, means that more information must be transferred, and that higher demands concerning optimality in planning and control must be fulfilled. When new control syste ms are being developed, this must be based on detailed knowledge about the organisation and contents of the control tasks, and on knowledge concerning how skilled operators behave and perform in complex and dynamic work situations. Basic design questions that must be answered, concern e.g. how far the control systems should be automated, the use of different types of decision support systems, the organisation of the control activities and which information that should be presented to the operators and how. We present a theoretical and methodological background for how modern human-computer research can be applied to the modelling, analysis and design of future train traffic control systems, and especially to the design of operator interfaces.

Keywords: Train traffic control, human-computer interaction, cognitive load, user interface design.

Paper (PDF)