ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the prototype multi-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) synthetic task environment, as well as the results from two evaluations using Multi-modal Immersive and Intelligent Interface for Remote Operation (MIIIRO) as the apparatus. The basic MIIIRO testbed configuration consists of two monitors, a keyboard, and mouse. A more complete description of the methodology and results for the two Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) evaluations conducted with MIIIRO are available. The results from these evaluations with the MIIIRO multi-UAV task environment showed that for the experimental paradigm employed, participants preferred to respond manually, rather than rely on the automation. MIIIRO has been shown to be a valuable testbed for uncovering important issues in multi-UAV supervisory control. As illustrated by the number of issues raised above, a great deal of research is needed to determine the optimal coupling of humans and autonomy in single operator control of multiple UAVs.
