Warningsignals in naval command and control systems

In a specific situation, a sound that is designed correctly can be the difference between a useful and an annoying system. If the environment where the user interacts with the system is not analysed, it is not likely that the system will work in a satisfying way. This report gives suggestions on how warning signals can be designed in cooperation with the end users. A study was performed as a first step in order to involve the end users in the design process. The aim with the study was to try a methodology for the creation of warning signals and to evaluate, a number of warning signals, designed at FOI. The focus of the methodology was on low cost and high effectiveness with an emphasis on the end users interpretation and knowledge of the auditory messages. 14 sounds were used, twelve alarm sounds and two notification sounds. The twelve alarm sounds were divided into two categories, "High" and "Extremely High". The presented result is based on five subjects only, and should therefore be treated as basic data for discussions when designing new warning signals for surface vessels. An experience of the methodology is that it offered fast evaluation. Future studies will aim towards multichannel information and the enhancement of warning signals by 3D audio.