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Tanker avionics and aircrew complement evaluation
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|November 1, 1982
Summary
This study determined control and display criteria for reduced-crew KC-135 tanker operations, validating a new cockpit design through the Tanker Avionics and Aircrew Complement Evaluation (TAACE) Program.
Area of Science:
- Aviation Human Factors
- Aerospace Engineering
- Military Operations Research
Background:
- Operating the KC-135 tanker typically requires a navigator.
- Reducing crew size presents challenges in control and display design.
- The Tanker Avionics and Aircrew Complement Evaluation (TAACE) Program was initiated to address these challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine optimal control and display criteria for KC-135 tanker operations with a reduced crew.
- To address design issues associated with removing the navigator position.
- To evaluate and validate a redesigned crew system.
Main Methods:
- A four-phase approach was employed: mission analysis, design, mockup evaluation, and simulation.
- Operational responsibilities were defined and documented.
- Alternative crew station designs were developed and assessed by aircrew members.
- The usability of the redesigned crew system was validated through simulation.
Main Results:
- A recommended crew station configuration was developed.
- Control and display criteria for reduced-crew operations were established.
- The usability and effectiveness of the redesigned crew system were validated.
Conclusions:
- The study successfully defined criteria for operating the KC-135 tanker with a reduced crew.
- The recommended crew station configuration and design philosophy offer a viable solution for future operations.
- The TAACE Program demonstrated the feasibility of implementing significant crew system redesigns.