Development of a Computer Simulation Model for Evaluating Dais Display Concepts

Systems Analysis of Integrated Networks of Tasks (SAINT) network and computer simulation techniques were applied in support of the Digital Avionics Information System (DAIS) advanced development program. A computer-programmed model was developed to closely parallel Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory's Advanced Cockpit Design Simulator (ACDS) man-in-the-loop experiments with respect to task scenarios, task durations, and control tolerances used. Networks developed for the model represented both multifunction switching and multipurpose display concepts of DAIS and dedicated avionics subsystem display and control concepts of conventional aircraft systems. Exercise of the computer model provided estimates of the nature of primary and secondary task interaction, performance predictions, and validation of the modeling concepts and accuracy within the limits of the available empirical data.