Improving human-in-the-loop simulation to optimize soldier-systems integration

To identify requirements for human-in-the-loop simulation capabilities and improve their utility in predicting and optimizing soldier-systems integration.

Technological development rates within the military are rapidly increasing. Emergent technologies often exclude in-depth consideration of human-system interactions until the physical prototyping phase. Human-in-the-loop simulation tools can allow for earlier consideration of humans in the development process; however, use remains limited.

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key informants to yield perspectives on current human-in-the-loop simulation capabilities and utility specific to the military. An inductive approach to thematic analysis was used to extract critical themes from transcribed interview data. A scoping review was completed to supplement the data obtained from interviews and summarize knowledge regarding requirements for human-in-the-loop simulation and analysis capabilities targeted to the military.

Interviews were conducted with five experts representing the sectors of Vehicle/Equipment Design, Simulation, and Army Research. A total of 2274 sources were identified, and 64 papers were retained for the scoping review. Thematic analysis of the combined data sources yielded six important themes to consider with respect to requirements for future human-in-the-loop simulation capabilities targeting soldier-systems integration.

This study has identified eight key requirements to support the use of human-in-the-loop simulation tools to predict and optimize soldier-systems integration and performance.

Addressing key requirements will improve the ability of current human-in-the-loop simulation tools to accommodate the military's need for human consideration early in the design process.