DPLMI 4.601 - Designing Command & Control Interfaces for Autonomous Agents [Interactive Prototype]

Tutorial: AI-Enhanced Command & Control Interfaces - Case Studies

Welcome to the interactive prototype for the DPLMI Course 4.601 tutorial on AI-Enhanced Command & Control Interfaces. In this tutorial, we will explore real-world case studies of delegatory military C2 interfaces designed for overseeing autonomous agents in the field.

Conceptual wireframe design of an AI-enhanced command and control interface. The interface features a real-time map showing the positions of autonomous units in the field. A side panel allows the operator to delegate high-level mission objectives and rules of engagement to the AI agents. Status indicators show the current tasking and health of each unit. — Fig 1. Conceptual design of an AI-enhanced C2 interface for commanding autonomous military units. The interface enables high-level tasking while the AI handles low-level execution.

Delegatory C2 interfaces mark a shift from the direct teleoperation paradigms of the past. Rather than micromanaging every action, the interfaces of the future will focus on conveying commander's intent, rules of engagement, and high-level objectives to semi-autonomous agents in the field. The AI will then handle the real-time execution and adaptation to achieve the stated goals within the given constraints.

Some of the key challenges in designing effective AI-enhanced C2 interfaces include:

Defining the level of abstraction and delegation that optimizes human-AI collaboration
Establishing robust methods for monitoring AI agent status, progress and adherence to commands
Enabling graceful handover of control between the human and AI as the situation requires
Fostering calibrated trust in the AI agents through transparency and predictable behaviors

Prototype: Convoy Escort Mission C2 Interface

In this interactive prototype, you will step into the role of a commander tasked with overseeing a convoy escort mission carried out by a team of autonomous ground and air vehicles.

Your role is to use the C2 interface to:

Review the convoy route and projected threats along the path
Assign autonomous escort vehicles to the convoy from the available assets
Specify the rules of engagement and acceptable risk levels for the mission
Initiate the convoy escort operation and monitor progress
Respond to any emergent threats or issues that arise during the mission

Accessibility

Detailed figure descriptions

Fig 1. [Detailed description of the conceptual C2 interface wireframe outlining the key components and interactions]
Interactive Prototype. [Detailed description of the interactive convoy escort mission prototype interface, controls, and workflow]

Through this case study, you will gain practical experience with the core concepts, design patterns, and tradeoffs involved in creating effective C2 interfaces for autonomous military systems. Use the insights from this exercise to inform your own future interface designs.

This concludes the DPLMI Course 4.601 tutorial on AI-Enhanced Command & Control Interfaces. Be sure to review the supplementary lecture notes and complete syllabus to reinforce your understanding of this critical topic at the intersection of military command, AI agency, and interface design. Reach out to the instruction staff with any questions.