Preliminary Recommendation for the Electronic Display of Graphical Aircraft Maintenance Information

Abstract

REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGEForm AGENCY USE ONLY (Leave blank)2. REPORT DATE February 1999 REPORT TYPE AND DATES COVERED Interim -November 1995 to February 1999 TITLE AND SUBTITLE Preliminary Recommendations for the Electronic Display of Graphical Aircraft Maintenance Information AUTHOR(S)Laurie L. Quill, David E. Kancler, Patrick Pohle, Barbara L. Masquelier PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES)University Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 12b. DISTRIBUTION CODE ABSTRACT (Maximum 200 words)The conversion of paper schematic diagrams to electronic display presentations requires identification and analysis of associated cognitive demands. Schematic diagrams are typically used by expert maintainers in troubleshooting aircraft faults, These expert maintainers must rely on skill, rule, and knowledge-based behavior to successfully use these diagrams. In this task, the Applied Cognitive Task Analysis (ACTA) method was employed to elicit knowledge associated with using schematic diagrams for troubleshooting. Eleven F-15 maintenance technicians were interviewed. Results showed that schematic diagrams not only support the basic abilities required for troubleshooting; they also allow for visualization of the dynamic flow of system relations and process activities on the aircraft. The ACTA method identified the cues and strategies used to mentally depict system flow. Efforts to convert schematic diagrams to electronic display presentations should support the basic troubleshooting abilities, as well as the cues and strategies that depict dynamic system flow.