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As a standard procedure of human factors engineering, the design of complex systems (e.g., operator interfaces) starts with analyses of system objectives, missions, functions, and tasks. Perceptual Control Theory (PCT) provides a theoretical framework for guiding this process. PCT is founded on notions from control theory, in which closed-loop, negative-gain, feedback systems can be used to build powerful models of goal-directed behavior and for implementing complex systems (Powers, 1973). One of the strengths of PCT over competing human behavior theories is that it explains how humans can control systems that are subject to a wide variety of external influences. UAV control is through the operators’ interaction with the interfaces in remote control stations. A closed-loop feedback system is crucial for both operators and control systems to understand the states and goals of each other. It is likely that advanced UAV control systems will require operators to interact with automated systems such as IAIs. IAIs are sophisticated and will require knowledge about mission goals, the operators’ goals, and states, as well as the UAV and environmental states. Thus, the methods of analysis used in this research were based on PCT given its engineering origins in control theory and advantages accommodating various external disturbances.

The great success of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in performing near-real time tactical, reconnaissance, intelligence, surveillance and other various missions has attracted broad attention from military and civilian communities. A critical contribution to the increase and extension of UAV applications, resides in the separation of pilot and vehicle allowing the operator to avoid dangerous and harmful situations. However, this apparent benefit has the potential to lead to problems when the role of humans in remotely operating “unmanned” vehicles is not considered. Although, UAVs do not carry humans onboard, they do require human control and maintenance. To control UAVs, skilled and coordinated work of operators on the ground is required.