The objective of this effort is to develop and demonstrate an automated tool designated the Engineering Manning, Business processes, interaction with Automation, and Requirements for Knowledge (EMBARK) tool. EMBARK will enhance the ability of human systems integration (HSI) professionals and systems engineers to identify shipboard engineering operational tasks in which a high potential for human overload and error can be expected, and to develop solutions in the form of prototype displays that will provide needed information and situational awareness while reducing cognitive workload and human error potential. The EMBARK tool will also address the enhancement of situation awareness and human performance achieved through an optimal interaction between the operator and the automation. The objectives of the Phase I effort are to (a) develop requirements and conceptual design for the EMBARK tool; (b) develop prototype user interfaces for the tool; and (c) conduct a limited demonstration of the operation of the tool. This tool will support early HSI analysis to assess workloads, manning and human performance of commercial as well as military systems with significantly reduced time, effort and cost of the analysis. Potential commercial applications include commercial shipping, maritime and offshore systems, manufacturing plants, electrical power plants, chemical and pharmaceutical plants, and any other commercial enterprise where manpower reduction and human performance improvement is a priority.
