Date of Award

12-26-2014

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Systems Engineering

Department

Department of Systems Engineering and Management

First Advisor

John M. Colombi, PhD.

Abstract

The promise of providing an intuitive and efficient information interface, while allowing the warfighter to perform other critical tasks such as targeting or aircraft control, has led to the growing popularity of Helmet Mounted Displays (HMDs) across the military landscape, especially combat aircraft. Though design and selection of competing systems is critical to optimized performance and safety, structured methods for the evaluation of HMDs are not often used in the acquisition community, leaving selection among alternative designs to the judgment of subject matter experts. However, technical decision-making has been shown to be flawed without the use of a structured decision analysis framework, which can help to overcome narrow focus, potential bias, and human error. This thesis proposes a HMD design evaluation framework that derives system metrics from fundamental multi-level performance objectives and employs a robust, analytical approach to assess the alternative's ability to bring value to these objectives. Supported by principles of Human Systems Integration (HSI) and Value-Focused Thinking, the framework can be used by decision makers to craft informed, defendable judgments that strive to increase system performance while decreasing maintenance and integration resource. The 17-factor framework is illustrated through application on two possible solutions for a fixed-wing fighter platform.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-ENV-MS-14-D-45

DTIC Accession Number

ADA617383

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