OPERATOR STRATEGIES IN A DYNAMIC ENVIRONMENT IN RELATION TO AN OPERATOR MODEL

Results of an analysis of the cognitive activity of operators in controlling incidents in a Steam Generating Heavy Water Reactor in relation to a computer-based model of an operator (COSIMO, Cacciabue et al. 1992) are presented. The analysis focuses on information checking and actions to be taken in five incidents of varying levels of specification. Two experienced and two less-experienced operators participated in the experiments. Techniques of video and protocol analysis have been employed. Results indicate that operators use strategies in order to overcome the dynamic feature of incidents; in particular they break down problems into elementary problems, and they aim at maintaining a stable situation. A central characteristic is the importance of actions in terms of their timing and their results. Actions are carried out incrementally, and their effects then used as pointers to guide the course of future problem-solving and future actions. Problems may be postponed when they are not urgent, or when system latency does not allow an effect to be obtained following an action. Finally the paper discusses some elements that should be modified in order to increase the predictive capability of the COSIMO model.