Harmonisation of human machine interface the intuitive approach

EUROCONTROL, in co-operation with European Aviation Administrations (and recently the FAA) has conducted experiments involving the use of advanced HMI (Human Machine Interface) for Controller Working Positions. From ODID (Operational Display and Input Development) through to PHARE (Programme for Harmonised ATM Research in EUROCONTROL) and EATCHIP III (European ATC Harmonisation and Integration Programme), a baseline of HMI and use of colour has evolved. This involves the use of dynamic graphical interaction and display, together with a logical use of system functions which are approaching "in service" maturity (trajectory and conflict probe, conflict monitoring and resolution, system assisted co-ordination). Participants in the experiments have commented that the HMI is Intuitive. Most data input relate to clearance instructions passed to the pilot, coordination effected with an adjacent sector/Centre or planning tasks such as traffic integration and conflict calculation. This intuitive perception has been a major selling point since operational experts want to understand WHY, and to see the VALUE of, any new data input workload.