Human-machine interaction for unmanned surface systems

Abstract

This research investigated the human-machine interaction (HMI) technologies for human-robot teams operating as unmanned surface systems (USS). An pilot role was found to be the most prevalent in the USS-related literature but additional human roles were determined to likely be necessary (e.g., Mission Specialist} though were not documented; interface needs have not yet been determined for any role. The human interfaces used by 67 Micro and Small X, Intermediate, Harbor, Fleet, and E,F,G-Class platforms were examined and it was determined that: i) the research literature does not well characterize the human roles present in unmanned surface systems, ii) domain complexity may necessitate increased automation of the robot platform for the human team, and iii) that unmanned surface vehicles likely lay on the human-machine interaction spectrum between unmanned ground vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles. This work is expected to serve as a reference for future design and refinement of human interfaces for USSs and as a foundation for better understanding HMI in USSs