Mixed-Initiative Interaction in Manned-Unmanned-Teaming Mission Planning: Design and Evaluation of a Prototype

A current field of research at the University of the Bundeswehr Munich (UBM) is in the area of military helicopter missions utilizing Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T). Within this context rapid multi-UAV mission planning in dynamically changing scenarios from onboard a manned helicopter is examined. Due to the complexity of this mission several problems including reduced situation and plan awareness may arise during the planning process. To counteract these problems, a mixed-initiative approach is proposed. Two use-cases for mixed-initiative interaction and their prototype implementation are described. Experiments were conducted with German Army Officers to evaluate the implemented prototype. Results of the experiments show that plan quality can be increased. Finally, future steps for a mixed-initiative planning system fully integrated in a pilot assistant system are outlined.