Mathematical modeling of human-machine interaction in multi attribute piloting tasks simulator using information theory

In this paper, using the concepts related to the information theory, the model of interaction between human and machine in a standard simulator of piloting tasks is created. For this purpose, baud rate generated in all subsystems of the simulator is calculated and by summing them, the total baud rate is obtained. Next, output baud rate produced by human during working with the simulator is computed and subsequently, a unique index facilitating human performance investigation is proposed. Finally, the capability of this index is examined in the simulator of piloting tasks via a practical test performed by some subjects for different levels of workload (low, medium, and high). Results demonstrate that when a substantial growth in the workload level occurs, subjects try to show extra effort through increasing their generated output baud rate. On the other hand, according to the statistics analysis it can be concluded that there is a significant difference between performance of subjects across low, medium, and high levels of workload, i.e. a severe growth in the workload level causes considerable drop in performance index.