AFRL Fields Web-Based Tool for Evaluating Published Dec. 5, 2006 By Human Effectiveness Directorate AFRL/HE WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- AFRL engineers conceived, designed, and developed an online image-quality evaluation tool to fulfill a critical need associated with the creation of an autonomous approach and landing capability (AALC). The AALC encompasses sensor, human, and air vehicle considerations and thus employs an interdisciplinary approach for capturing both the hardware and software aspects and the human-use characteristics required to field a cost-effective and reliable sensor system. AFRL's online interactive survey tool provides the means to test the informational quality of images derived by the various sensor platforms proposed for the AALC. Sensors validated by the survey tool will permit Air Force assets to safely approach, land, and taxi in conditions of zero visibility at remote, austere airfields lacking ground-based navigation aids. Additionally, the Web-based tool provides the ability to collect data from evaluators in remote or deployed locations, achieving considerable savings in travel and logistical expenses. AFRL's Web-based survey tool has proven itself as a crucial component for the development and eventual implementation of the 2004 Air Mobility Master Plan supporting US Defense Planning Guidance. The tool has generated interest within and outside the sensor community as a versatile, user-friendly, and self-contained assessment resource that can contribute to the design and development of many image-based warfighter systems.