AMC Rapidly Fields AFRL's Command and Control Timeline Visualization Technology

  • Published
  • By Human Effectiveness Directorate
  • AFRL/HE
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  AFRL engineers developed new work-centered interface distributed environment (WIDE) software that provides a timeline visualization capability. Air Mobility Command's (AMC) Tanker Airlift Control Center (TACC) is fielding the advanced technology demonstration software in its operational systems. The timeline visualization tool applies work-centered design principles to map out the operator's decision space--including views of missions and associated resource constraints--on a common timescale, a unique approach that sets the new tool apart from other time-oriented displays.

The timeline reflects near-real-time updates to AMC mission data and depicts a given problem in the context of related elements. The visual fusion of relevant information in the display assists operators in rapidly understanding not only the meaning of an alert, but the factors affecting mission viability and possible solutions. Also of significance is the tool's capacity to perform whatif simulations; these hypothetical scenarios facilitate ongoing situation awareness by allowing operators to examine the repercussions of any changes made to the mission itinerary. This unique capability enables a prompt reaction to mission problems--a response based on actionable information and executed in a timely manner.

The new timeline visualization capability transitioned directly into the Consolidated Air Mobility Planning System (CAMPS) version 9.0.2 and deployed within the Air Mobility Division (AMD) of the Al-Udeid Air Force Base (Qatar) Combined Air Operations Center. While the TACC uses this tool to maintain awareness of global mobility assets, the AMD will use it to attain "fleet-at-a-glance" situation awareness of in-theater airlift. As a result of the timeline technology's applicability to all phases of a mission--from initial planning through execution--AMC is integrating the tool into its Mobility Air Forces Command and Control Framework, where all users will have access to the capability. The CAMPS program, an activity involving AMC's primary mission planning system, employed the WIDE demonstration software and specifications to rapidly implement an initial operational capability.