1ISE 412

Ecological Approaches Appropriate for design of systems to

support human operators in complex, dynamic environments.

Founded on ecological psychology

“Simon’s Ant” example Contrast with cognitivist approaches

Requires understanding of the system and environment within which the operator is working.

2ISE 412

An example – “shoe tying machine”

Option 1 Option 2

3ISE 412

Ecological Interface Design (EID) Based on the SRK

taxonomy

Focus is on environmental constraints and system function

4ISE 412

Understanding work: Abstraction Hierarchy

MEANS-ENDS RELATIONS

PROPERTIES REPRESENTED

EXAMPLE (ISE 412 CLASS)

Functional Purpose

Purposes and values; constraints imposed by the environment

Abstract Function

Flow of mass, energy, information, people, monetary value, etc.

Generalized FunctionsGeneral activities that achieve the functions described above

Physical Function

Specific work processes, physical processes, and equipment

Physical Form

Appearance, location, and configuration of objects, components, etc.

5ISE 412

Using the AH in interface designMEANS-ENDS RELATIONS

EXAMPLE (ISE 412 CLASS)

Functional Purpose

instill competence in applying the methods and knowledge of hfe to the design of systems; course objectives

Abstract Function

presentation of facts and procedures; demonstration of problem solving and design; information flow between instructor and student

Generalized Functions

lecture, demonstrations, text, notes, homework, projects, etc

Physical Function

specific class structure (question/answer at start, lecture, demonstration, in-class exercise); electronic communication methods (email, web site); homework assignments; lab assignments (group); design project

Physical Form

physical classroom in traditional configuration; computer, smartboard, and notes; paper assignments and submissions; informational web site; listserv for communication outside of class; team and individual assignments (in class and out of class)

6ISE 412

An Example DURESS (DUal REservoir Simulation System)

Process control example

Small feedwater stream

6 valves, 2 pumps, 2 heaters

(from: Vicente, K.J. and Rasmussen, J. (1990) The ecology of human machine systems II: Mediating direct perception in complex work domains. Ecological Psychology, 2(3), pp.207-249)

7ISE 412

DURESS (cont.)

MEANS-ENDS RELATIONS DURESS

Functional PurposeDemand1, Demand2, Temparature1, Temperature2

Abstract Function

Mass (conservation of mass)Energy (conservation of energy)

Generalized Functions

6 water flows, 2 heater temperatures, 2 volumes, 2 output flows, 2 output temperatures

Physical Function

PFn: 2 pump settings, 6 valve settings, 2 output valve settings, 2 heater settings

Physical Form

N/A (simulated system.)

8ISE 412

DURESS “Standard” Configuration

9ISE 412

DURESS Redesign Based on EID

10ISE 412

Your Turn: Car Dashboard Allow the driver to monitor and control car speed

for optimal fuel consumption.

MEANS-ENDS RELATIONS

PROPERTIES REPRESENTED

EXAMPLE (CAR)

Functional Purpose

Purposes and values; constraints imposed by the environment

Abstract Function

Flow of mass, energy, information, people, monetary value, etc.

Generalized FunctionsGeneral activities that achieve the functions described above

Physical Function

Specific work processes, physical processes, and equipment

Physical Form

Appearance, location, and configuration of objects, components, etc.

11ISE 412

An example – Prius console “energy” view