Conceptual design of multi-human machine interfaces

Human-machine interfaces for cooperative supervision and control by several human users, either in control rooms or in group meetings, are dealt with. The information flow between the different human users, and their overlapping information needs, are explained. The example of a cement plant illustrates this in more detail. Cognitive science concepts for supporting visual and mental coherence, as well as multi-media, hypertext and CSCW (computer supported cooperative work) technologies, are discussed with respect to their usage in multi-human machine interfaces. The design process for these interfaces is outlined, with emphasis on the different design stages, user participation and the possibility of knowledge-based design support. Some ideas for the conceptual structure of multi-human machine interfaces are also presented. Copyright (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.