ABSTRACT
In this paper we propose a novel approach to the interface design for process control industries aimed at support of operators’ problem-solving activities. The interface is based on a script approach to human problem solving and uses spatial representation of the experts’ procedural knowledge. We describe a prototype intelligent user interface for real-time control systems, the Flexible Script Interface (FSI), which is designed to recommend the correct sequence of actions appropriate in relation to the actual task. FSI is implemented with an interactive script graph which represents a task structure and canalizes user’s problem-solving behaviour. The prototype system combines 3D computer graphics visualization technology with decision support and cognitive engineering to produce an intelligent graphic interface for operators of real-time supervisory control systems, such as those used in power production and industrial process control.
