Showing papers on "Supervisory control published in 1986"

A Discrete Control Model of Operator Function: A Methodology for Information Display Design

Abstract: Recent advances in computer technology and the changing rule of the human in complex systems require changes in design strategies for information displays. The use of discrete control models to represent the human operator's cognitive and decisionmaking activities is described. The analytic procedures required to build a discrete control model show promise as a basis of a design methodology for the definition of an information display system for supervisory control tasks. The discrete control modeling procedures and their application for a simulated system is demonstrated.

Human supervisory control of robot systems

Abstract: This paper reviews some what's and whys of "supervisory control", "telerobotics" and "telepresence" as applied to operations in space. Specific salient problems and developments in control are described, including: (1) computer-based planning; (2) command language; (3) geometric resolution; and (4) arm/end-effector dexterity and impedance. Key problems and developments in telesensory feedback are also described, including: (i) predictive display; (2) teleproprioception; (3) force reflection; and (4) teletouch. Finally, some "policy" problems of design/development by computer simulation vs. hardware design, and the problems of evaluation of prototype systems are mentioned. Efforts from the author's laboratory are cited as examples; no comprehensive literature review is intended.

Supervisory control system for the JASON ROV

Abstract: A prototype supervisory control system for a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) is described and several key elements demonstrated in simulation and in-water tests. This system is specifically designed to fill the needs of JASON, a new ROV under development that will perform scientific tasks on the seafloor to depths of 6000 m. JASON will operate from the ARGO towed imaging platform, which is currently operational. Supervisory control is a paradigm for combined human and computer control. Several key elements of the supervisory control system are presented. These include the closed-loop positioning system based on a high-resolution acoustic navigation system, a monitoring capability for assessing performance and detecting undesirable changes, and an interface that allows the human operator and the computer system to specify the desired vehicle trajectory jointly.

Remote supervisory and controlling system

Abstract: A remote supervisory and controlling System for remotely supervising and controlling loads in time-divisional multiplex transmission of control and monitor data between a central control and terminal units each connected to the central control unit through a two-wire line. Supervision and control of the overall system can be carried out from a plurality of locations so that failure of a central or host computer will not render the overall system inoperative.

Integration of multiple sensors to provide flexible control strategies

Abstract: The design and operation of an experimental robot workstation that adaptively responds to a disordered or changing environment are presented. The adaptive control is provided by the use of several sensor subsystems in a distributed architecture workcell. Included in the workstation are a commercial 6-axis robot, a microprocessor-based vision subsystem, an acoustic-ranging sensor subsystem, and a force-torque sensing subsystem; each subsystem is microprocessor based, and supervisory control is provided by a workcell host computer. Five demonstrations of adaptive control are described, including real-time path modification by single sensors and integrated use of multiple sensors.

Decision support in supervisory control

Abstract: It is argued that the supervisory control of complex industrial processes having a potential for serious consequences in case of accidents requires careful consideration of the allocation of decision making between the three main agents of control; namely the designer, the operator and the automatic control system. In particular, it is advocated that instead of continuing their efforts to make their preplanning of responses and countermeasures more and more complete and restricting the operators' initiative, designers should take advantage of modern information technology to make available to the operators their conceptual models and their processing resources so as to allow the operators to function as their extended arm in coping with the plant. Such an interactive decision making activity would thus benefit from this simultaneous availability of the design basis, up-to-date knowledge of plant status and accumulated operational experience

Cognitive attributes: implications for display design in supervisory control systems

Abstract: Based on a review of the literature, a cognitive model of human information processing is presented. The model synthesizes several perspectives with the intent of suggesting guidelines for human-computer interface designers of supervisory control systems. Given this model, the paper identifies 18 attributes of cognition that are particularly relevant to information display design and real-time decision-making. The discussion of each attribute of cognition has four components. First, each cognitive attribute is defined based on current interpretations in the cognitive-psychology literature. Next, given traditional design approaches, likely negative outcomes of automation as they affect the cognitive attribute are identified. Third, given the hypothesized effects, improvements in conventional design are suggested. Finally, the discussion of each cognitive attribute concludes with an example drawn from existing command and control environments. The paper is intended to provide a well-defined and coherent background for empirical research exploring alternative strategies of human-computer interface design for decision-makers in supervisory control systems.

Supervisory system in communication system

Abstract: In a communication system wherein repeater stations and terminal stations are connected in tandem, a supervisory system in which a logical hierarchical configuration is used for the transmission of supervisory information regarding the stations and a redundant polling is used to easily and securely collect the supervisory information from the slave or repeater stations or the like. Whereby, if faults occur in some of the stations, the collection of the information is carried out without interruption and without the need to install a special information collecting line.

Distributed microcomputer control system for advanced teleoperation

Abstract: A modular and expandable distributed microcomputer hardware and software system is described matching the natural needs of real-time mechanization of manipulator control in space teleoperation. The natural needs include: (a) distribution of real-time control computing power between control station and remote robot arms equipped with smart end effectors and (b) the use of interchangeable control techniques like (i) generalized force-reflecting hand control, (ii) sensor-referenced automatic control and (iil) supervisory control with interface to high level task planning control. The distributed microcomputer control system is also handling computer graphics displays and the control of TV cameras. The paper describes the major components of the modular control software system including inter-processor communication and control mode selection. A simulation example is quoted to verify control hardware/software performance and to aid human operator control performance studies.

Supervisory control system for continuous drying

Abstract: Supervisory control system including an arrangement and process for controlling the operation of a dryer for the continuous adiabatic drying of a moist solid product with heated air for achieving the desired final product moisture content which would not exceed scorch level.

Modelling cognitive activities: human limitations in relation to computer aids

Abstract: In the design of a human machine interface for process control the designer must couple three elements as closely as possible, namely the properties of the environment, the properties of the plant, and the properties of the operator. Information and control pass backwards and forwards between these three components, and within each component information and control pass between subcomponents.

System and method for controlling network bus communications for tightly coupled information among distributed programmable controllers

Abstract: E) A control system for controlling an industrial process includes a network of a plurality of distributed programmable controllers or nodes coupled serially to a communications bus on either a single or dual media by means of a shielded twisted wire pair cable. The programmable controllers are coupled to the bus through a communications module which uses a broadcast method to achieve peer-to-peer communications. One module of the network, designated as an active monitor, exercises exclusive supervisory control of the broadcast activity on the network. The active monitor polls each node coupled to the network and each active node responds by broadcasting unacknowledged data to all nodes in the network. The broadcast message of each node in the network is mapped directly into designated variable memory locations of each programmable controller on the network. The active monitor establishes a list of active nodes based on the responses to the poll and allocates a time slot to each active node to broadcast its data and on a cyclical basis continues to poll a different node each network scan to update the list. Fault tolerance is provided by either an active-passive monitor arrangement for the single medium embodiment or by a redundant medium connection for the dual media embodiment.

Human Productivity Enhancement: Training and Human Factors in Systems Design

Abstract: From the Publisher: This book offers psychologists and those who are involved with systems design an overview of changing technology and guidelines for using new techniques in the design and development of systems in the workplace The first part of the book concerns productivity and cognitive assessment The papers provide state of the art appraisals of robotic perception, artificial intelligence, knowledge representation, decision making and the control of automation systems The second part, on systems design research, discusses a number of key applied human factors problems, including supervisory control systems, human workloads, methods of systems design, job aiding, and human factors considerations

Development status of ftu control system

Abstract: The system uses 4 minicomputers acting as plant control unit (PCU) connected via Ethernet to a supervisory control unit (SCU). Subplant control is provided by programmable logic controller (PLC) and a unit called fast sequence controller (FSC) is used during pulse sequence. Finally the FDA unit performs fast data acquisition.

Supervisory control computer system of compound generating plant

Abstract: In a supervisory control computer system of a compound generating plant, an output permission selecting switch for a man-machine interface means such as CRT, T/W or the like is installed corresponding to gas turbine generating facilities and steam turbine generating facilities, and condition of the output permission selecting switch is added to output requirements to the man-machine interface means, thereby selection of output/stop is performed per each of the generating facilities.

Decision demands and task requirements in work environments: what can be learnt from human oeprator modeling

Abstract: Supervisory control can be distinguished from manual control which is a closed loop, skill based action, by four important aspects: The control of highly complex, multivariable processes with mostly large to very large time constants. The discrete action patterns based on decision making processes. The variability in tasks, such as process tuning, start and stop procedures and fault management. The often vague information on the ultimate supervisory control perspectives. Hence, supervisory control tasks are different from those in manual control. Taking into account the three major process control modes which may occur in supervisory control -Normal operation, start and stop, and abnormal operation-it is of interest to classify the different tasks with reference to these control modes, as well as with reference to the three levels of control behavior as introduced by Rasmussen: Skill-based, Rule-based and Knowledge-based behavior. At the Skill-based level only manual control activities play a role; at the Rule-based level activities like process tuning and to a certain extent fault management may occur, whereas at the Knowledge-based level intelligent, cognitive activities such as optimisation, planning and fault management are thought to be.

Aiding Human Operators with State Estimates.

Abstract: : Three experiments are reported in which subjects must maintain a dynamic plant at or near some desired state by selecting actions based on a display of noisy state information and their own knowledge of the plant dynamic characteristics. In some cases, a normatively derived state estimate was displayed as an alternate inforamtion source, or decision aid. Results suggest that subjects simplify their own cognitive tasks significantly while degrading overall task performance only slightly. Models of this cognitive behavior include: substituting an adequate stimulus-response like algorithm for one which requires maintenance of an internal state estimate; retaining point estimates of state when distributrions over states are presented; partitioning the state space so that the modelled state space is smaller and more manageable than the actual state space; and ignoring certain structural details of plant behavior which extend beyond convenient analogical models assumend to be present in the subject. the implications for the design of decision aids based on state estimation are discussed. Keywords: Supervisory control, Mental models, Human computer interaction.

Supervisory Control of Single Axis Controllers for Modular Robotic Systems Using a Serial Interface

Abstract: A microprocessor-based controller for a range of pneumatically-actuated, servo-controlled, single degree of freedom, modular robotic units is now available in commercial form. This product, known as a single axis controller (SAC), is the result of SERC sponsored collaborative work by the Department of Engineering Production at Loughborough University of Technology (LUT) and Martonair UK. To co-ordinate the activities of a number of these units a supervisory controller is required. Such supervisors may communicate with SACs via either a serial or a parallel interface. This paper describes the facilities available to a supervisory controller using the serial interface and provides an example of their use.

Supervisory control system having improved memory management

Abstract: An alarm system includes a plurality of slave controllers (11), each controlling a device such as a fire detector, window closure switch, temperature sensor, or alarm bell. The slave controllers (11) communicate through communication lines (12) and (13) with a master controller (10) which, for example, has the capability of polling the slave controllers (11) to determine their status or the status of the various devices they control.

Data transmission system in decentralized type plant supervisory controller

Abstract: PURPOSE:To exectute effectively and efficiently plant supervisory control by decreasing selectively the information transmission period of a plant in response to the request of plant operation or state of plant CONSTITUTION:A process input/output device 11 of a transmission decentralized processor 1T collects a data from a process in a decentralized plant supervisory controller comprising plural plant supervisory data collecting devices connected to a load area network LAN and a central supervisory controller, and the data is transmitted to the reception decentralized processor 1R periodically via a serial data transmission line 2 through a communication controller 5 In such a case, the transmission period of plant information is reduced selectively in response to the state of the plant or the request of operation of the plant As the plant information, the information displayed on a data display CRT of the central supervisory controller has priority

Multi-Modal Interfaces in Supervisory Control

Abstract: The resource metaphor emphasizes the divisibility of attention. When performing any task, different mental operations must be carried out, each of which requires some degree of the operator's limited processing resources. In a supervisory control environment, visual processing resources are in high demand to monitor the typically large number of displays, as are manual resources to perform such tasks as adjusting dials, entering data into logbooks, and typing on keyboards. A need exists to develop multi-modal interfaces to take advantage of processing resources which are not currently used to advantage. Speech input is proposed as a means of facilitating operator interaction. An experiment incorporating speech input into a simulated control room environment compared the performance of operators using voice-augmented and keyboard inputs. It was found that speech input actually hindered the operator's control performance.

JASON: An Integrated Approach to ROV and Control System Design

Abstract: ROVS can be made more capable and easier to operate through the use of supervisory control techniques. Supervisory control systems combine precision navigation, closed-loop control, and a well-designed man-machine interface. They can improve ROV performance and decrease operator workload. Survey and inspection tasks can be performed and repeated more precisely and efficiently. Performance can be maintained in poor visibility and high currents. Vehicle motions can complement manipulator movements, so that more difficult manipulative tasks can be completed with simple arms.

A Rule-Based Model for the Human Operator in a Time-Constrained Competing-Task Environment

Abstract: A rule-based model of the human operator has been developed based on heuristics derived from results of an experiment that investigated supervisory control in a competing-task environment. The model calculated a set of feasible control actions at any time, from which a single action was chosen using rules. The model matched observed results very well. Experimental results are provided, and the model is described.

Load supervisory control system

Abstract: PURPOSE:To simplify the constitution of a master set and to improve the processing speed by constituting a return signal transmitted from a supervisory terminal equipment to the master set with a type setting data representing the type of the conversion system from a supervisory data to a control data and the supervisory data CONSTITUTION:When a return signal is received from the supervisory terminal equipment TS1, whether the signal is the ON/OFF type or the pushbutton type is decided depending on the type setting data, and when the signal is ON/OFF type, the supervisory data is compared with a state data of a corresponding load and when no change exits, the processing is finished When any change exists, the content of the state memory is updated a control signal is transmitted to a control terminal equipment TR1 so as to update the state of load and the control signal is transmitted to the terminal equipment TS1 so as to change the display of a lamp displaying the state of load When the result of decision is the pushbutton type, whether the supervisory data is given or not is checked and when it is given, the content of the state memory is inverted and the control signal changes the load and display

Training and human factors in system design

Abstract: This book offers psychologists and those who are involved with systems design an overview of changing technology and guidelines for using new techniques in the design and development of systems in the workplace. The first part of the book concerns productivity and cognitive assessment. The papers provide state of the art appraisals of robotic perception, artificial intelligence, knowledge representation, decision making and the control of automation systems. The second part, on systems design research, discusses a number of key applied human factors problems, including supervisory control systems, human workloads, methods of systems design, job aiding, and human factors considerations.

Supervisory control of mobile telecommunications

Abstract: A telecommunications system including a mobile unit is protected from operator-induced disruption by disabling the operator-adjustable controls of the mobile unit and fixing the operating parameters of the mobile unit. A supervisory apparatus incorporating supervisory circuit elements replacing the adjustable circuit elements associated with the operator-adjustable controls may be plug-connected between the main chassis and the control head of the mobile unit.

Data acquisition and control using ETHERNET

Abstract: We have developed a distributed computer control system to monitor and control a linear accelerator. This system consists of two PDP-11s and eight LSI 11/23s linked together with ETHERNET. The higher level systems (control consoles, etc.) use the RSX11M operating system, whereas the data acquisition and control is performed using the RSX11S operating system downline loaded from a central host computer. Locally written ETHERNET drivers are used to reduce the CPU overhead and therefore improve system response. The ETHERNET system permits remote file access by means of operator or program interaction, as well as supporting downline system loading. Control-system functions supported are supervisory control, closed-loop control, data monitoring, and data recording. 4 refs., 2 figs., 1 tab.

Central Arizona Project Supervisory Control System

Abstract: The Central Arizona Project (CAP), one of the nation’s largest water conveyance systems, is designed to deliver much of Arizona’s allotment of Colorado River water for municipal, industrial, and agricultural uses in central and southern Arizona. The size and nature of the CAP dictates the use of a computer-based programmable master supervisory control (PMSC) system as the primary means of operating the aqueduct. A dual-computer master station is connected to remote terminal units (RTUs) located at each pumping plant, checkgate, and turnout. Through the RTUs, the master station can send instructions to, and receive information from, any point along the aqueduct. Complex scheduling models generate pump, checkgate, and turnout schedules for the entire aqueduct system. These scheduling models are based on a constant volume philosophy of operation to keep the system responsive to changes in demands. Optimization models can modify these schedules to take advantage of the less expensive off-peak power costs. The PMSC will also monitor the aqueduct depths and flows measured in the field and compare them to those predicted in the scheduling models. If a large enough divergence occurs, the dispatcher is alerted and predetermined reaction procedures are implemented to shut down or stabilize the aqueduct.

Distributed hierarchical controlling device

Abstract: PURPOSE:To execute highly reliable supervisory control by controlling software of each controller unitarily by a common main memory image to improve efficiency of maintenance and making a controller, namely a low-order computer, execute build up of a controlling system at rising of the system CONSTITUTION:A protecting main memory section PM is protected by making to the state of main memory rewriting prohibition by a controller 4 just after the restoration of the main memory by loading Accordingly, the content is the same with a common main memory image 200 on the auxiliary storage unit 20 of a computer 2 during operation of the controller 4 In case where the computer 2 rises up a specific controller 4, build up of a control system is made in the controller 4 side only by down line loading the image 200 once through a transmission line 3 In case where system rising of a distributed hierarchical controlling device is to be made, the computer 2 makes down line loading of the image 200 in parallel with all controllers, accordingly, build up is made independently and in parallel