Chris Hamblin

A Systematic Tool for Deriving Crew Console Layouts

This paper describes the use of the Function Allocation Matrix Tool (FAMT) for designing spacecraft cockpit layouts. NASAs Constellation Program intends to return humans to the moon by 2020, followed by exploration to Mars and beyond. The Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) will serve as primary vehicle for transporting the crew. Orion will be equipped with a modern ‘glass cockpit’ that will allow the operators to command and control all of the vehicles systems via graphics-based displays not unlike those now common in modern flight decks. The design of Orions displays and controls places an increased emphasis on human-computer interaction and usability. In particular, the use of the FAMT drove the process of allocating displays and controls to reach and visual zones within the CEV 604 configuration cockpit. The result was the baseline display and control configuration for the Orion spacecraft.

The Role of Human Engineering in the Design of the Orion Spacecraft

The panel will discuss NASAs Crew Exploration Vehicle, Orion, which is being designed to take four humans back to the moon, and lay the groundwork for future manned missions to Mars. Given that the last design work for such a vehicle was performed over 30 years ago, a lot has changed. Since the contract was only recently awarded (2007), there is much work to be done: finalize requirements, mature the technology, design the systems and modules, produce the hardware and software, test the systems, and prepare for first flight operations planned for 2014. The panel, consisting of customer and contractor human engineering professionals, as well as an astronaut who is actively participating in the design process, will discuss current design issues, human factors approaches that are being applied, and current technical and cultural challenges. Audience insights and recommendations for addressing these challenges will form the interactive portion of the panel session.