Advanced Human-Computer Interface and Voice Processing Applications in Space

Advanced Human-Computer Interface and Voice Processing Applications in Space Julie Payette Canadian Space Agency Canadian Astronaut Program St-Hubert, Quebec J3Y 8Y9 ABSTRACT Much interest already exists in the electronics research community for developing and integrating speech technology to a variety of ap- plications, ranging from voice-activated systems to automatic tele- phone transactions. This interest is particularly true in the field of aerospace where the training and operational demands on the crew have significantly increased with the proliferation of technology. In- deed, with advances in vehicule and robot automation, the role of the human operator has evolved from that of pilot/driver and manual con- troller to supervisor and decision maker. Lately, some effort has been expended to implement alternative modes of system control, but au- tomatic speech recognition (ASR) and human-computer interaction (HCI) research have only recently extended to civilian aviation and space applications. The purpose of this paper is to present the par- ticularities of operator-computer interaction in the unique conditions found in space. The potential for voice control applications inside spacecraft is outlined and methods of integrating spoken-language interfaces onto operational space systems are suggested. 1. INTRODUCTION For more than three decades, space programs internationally have been synonymous with the frontier of technological developments. Since 1957, NASA alone has launched an impressive series of earth- orbiting satellites, exploration missions and manned vehicules. Mission complexity has increased tremendously as instrumentation and scientific objectives have become more sophisticated. Recent developments in robotics and machine intelligence have led to strik- ing changes in the way systems are monitored, controlled, and operated[i]. In the past, individual subsystems were managed by operators in complete supervisory and directing mode. Now the de- cision speed and complexity of many aerospace systems call for a new approach based on advanced computer and software technology. In this context, the importance of the human computer interface cannot be underestimated. Astronauts will come to depend on the system interface for all aspects of space life including the control of the onboard environment and life support system, the conduct of experiments, the communication among the crew and with the ground, and the execution of emergency procedures. One of the technology sought to help solve the human interface challenge in space is voice processing. Though Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) and other forms of advanced voice I/0 techniques have only recently been experimented with simple avionic systems, much remains to be done to meet the ergonomic characteristics of the unique operational envkonment found in space. This paper presents the particularities of operator-computer interac- tion in space. As examples, the current envkonment of the Space Shuttle System is described and projected requirements for the in- ternational Space Station are examined. The paper also outlines the potential for voice control applications inside spacecraft and suggest methods of integrating spoken-language interfaces onto operational space systems. 2. THE WORKPLACE: SPACE Any space flight represents some degree of risk and working in space, as in aviation, comports some hazards. Suddenly, at any time during a mission, a situation …

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