MIT AATT Model Project

DORATASK

(08/08/96 KK)

1. Primary Model Category

Sectorwise controller workload modelling

2. Summary

DORATASK is a fast-time simulation developed by the CAA(UK) for evaluating sector capacity based on controller workload limits by systematically summing up the time the controller might spend on observable and non-observable tasks for each category of traffic in a sector. It follows from the simulation model RECEP(US) and complements CAA's CATSIM model. It allows prediction of capacity changes resulting from changes in manning levels, route structures or relative traffic loadings, ATC procedures or equipment, and airspace re-sectorization. DORATASK defines the capacity of a sector as that which creates a level of workload equal to a specified level (e.g 48 occupied minutes per hour).

3. Input Requirements

Sector geometry, routes, task timings (determined from video, microphone recordings or otherwise) etc..

4. Outputs

Workload limited sector traffic limits.

5. Major Assumptions

Availability of typical activity times. Designed for UK sectors and procedures etc..

6. Computational Characteristics

Machine and system: Not known Not easy to use; intensive learning effort and training needed in addition to familiarity with sectors,traffic and procedures. No documentation is avaialable

7. Modularity and Flexibility

Apparently standalone. Extension to dual controller sectors being developed as well as other algorithmic enhancements.

8. Status

The model is currently being used by CAA for UK sectors. Since 1992 it has been used for caqpacity assesment of the London Area Traffic Control Centre (LATCC), Scottish area (ScATCC) and the UK's CCF.

9. Extent of Model Verification

The model has been calibrated against many sectors in the UK with other capacity methods or empirical data. Caution is urged by the CAA in applying the model to sectors which it hasn't been calibrated for, as unexpected interactions may arise.

10. Principal Applications

Sector capacity assesment specific to the UK.

11. Availability

Available from the CAA with permission.

12. Information for Model Evaluation

Arnab Majumdar
Eurocontrol
e-mail:arnab.majumdar@eurocontrol.fr

13. Summary Evaluation

(temporary)
According to some DORATASK is the most reliable currently available model for predicting controller workload (and hence the capacity of an airspace sector). It has been developed by the CAA's Directorate of Operational Research and Analysis (DORA). The DORATASK method models workload by summing the times spent on elemental activities such as communicating with aircraft, writing on flight strips, communicating with neighbouring sectors, etc. The capacity of a sector is then the maximum number of aircraft which would cause the controller to be saturated for no more than a specified percentage of time. This works well for predicting sector capacity in today's system where many fine details of the system are known, but there are difficulties in applying it to future systems where such details are not yet known.

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