A Theoretical Analysis and Preliminary Investigation of Dynamically Adaptive Interfaces

Abstract

Adynamically adaptive interface (DAI) is a computer interface that changes the display or control characteristics of a system (or both) in real time. The goal of DAIs is to anticipate informational needs or desires of the user and provide that information without the requirement of an explicit control input by the user. DAIs have the potential to improve overall human-machine system performance if properly designed; they also have a very real potential to degrade performance if they are not properly designed. This article explores both theoretical and practical issues in the design of DAIs. The relation of the DAI concept to decision aiding and automation is discussed, and a theoretical framework for design is outlined.Apreliminary investigation of the DAI design concept was conducted in the domain of aviation (precision, low-level navigation). Nontraditional controls (a force reflecting stick) and displays (a configural flight director) were developed to support performance at the task. A standard interface (conventional controls and displays), a candidate interface (alternative controls and displays), and an adaptive interface (dynamically alternating between the standard and candidate displays) were evaluated. The results indicate that significant performance advantages in the quality of route navigation were obtained with the candidate and adaptive interfaces relative to the standard interface; no significant differences between the candidate and adaptive interfaces were obtained. The implications of these results are discussed, with special emphasis on their relation to fundamental challenges that must be met for the DAI concept to be a viable design alternative.