Project Title:

Hypercontexts: An Innovation for Managing the Man-Systems

Johnson Engineering Corporation
3055 Center Green Drive
Boulder, CO 80301-5406

93-1      12.09     8152 A         Amount Requested $69,949

Hypercontexts: An Innovation for Managing the Man-Systems
Standards and Related Multimedia Information to Improve Design of
Spacecraft Interiors

Abstract:

(1) The proposed innovation, Hypercontext, bridges the gap
between Man-Systems Integration Standards (MSIS) as static paper 
documentation and the dynamic work context of spacecraft layout, 
arrangement and decor by using the powerful MSIS structure to 
access man-systems information in multiple formats (text, numerical 
data, vector graphics, photographs, video, animation and voice). 

(2) Phase I will develop new functionality to support MSIS, 
including an authoring mechanism for strict control of MSIS 
configuration without stifling creative interaction; a context 
editor for easy generation of program-specific MSIS versions; 
exploitation of vector graphic spacecraft images for intuitive 
browsing and access of MSIS information; a translator to quickly 
capture existing electronic MSIS data while preserving its 
structure; and a delta data management mechanism for collection, 
evaluation, merging and distribution of suggested MSIS changes
very efficiently.  

(3) Tasks include requirements definition, 
programming the mechanisms described above, capturing and 
structuring MSIS and other supporting information, testing, 
demonstration and a final report.  

(4) Phase I will demonstrate the  feasibility of Hypercontexts 
through prototype development and  preliminary testing.  

(5) NASA will benefit by elevating MSIS from an on-the-shelf reference to 
an integral part of the spacecraft design work context, enhancing 
productivity and effective use of zero-gravity.

The proposed innovation has broad commercial application in any 
situation involving massive amounts of heterogenous information 
which must be efficiently accessed and maintained.  These include
all forms of design standards and regulations, catalogues,
training materials, operational procedures, and the emerging digital
library concept.

Hypermedia, Hypertext, Habitability, Spacecraft Design, Human 
Factors, Crew Station Design, Man-Systems Integration Standards