Analysis and enhancement of human-machine interfaces using a joystick controller

This article deals with performance evaluation of human operations in point -to-point displacement tasks using a joystick. Analysis of operator outputs during an experimental task revealed a pattern of partially overlapping su bmovements with predictable velocity characteristics and forms. A velocity-dependent gain control added to the joystick-cursor interface im proved performance when compared to a conventional linear transformation. T his control algorithm can be recommended for many similar human-machine int erfaces. A specific performance evaluation was applied to estimate the characteristi cs of different remote control designs. This approach can be used for evalu ating human-machine systems. (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.