A multi-scale cognitive interaction model of instrument operations at the Linac Coherent Light Source

Abstract

The Linac Coherent Light Source is a high-value x-ray free electron laser facility where beam time is scarce and experimental efficiency is critical. This paper presents a multi-agent, multi-scale computational cognitive interaction model of instrument operations, simulating aspects of cognition across seconds-to-hours temporal scales and across the operator, analyst, and experiment-manager roles. The model is intended to estimate the rough impact of proposed interface and workflow changes before they are deployed in live experimental operations.

Highlights

• Frames LCLS experiment operations as a multi-role human-machine decision process spanning micro, meso, and macro cognitive timescales.
• Models functional acuity and functional operability as interaction-level constructs connecting cognition, interface design, and action timing.
• Shows how computational modeling can probe proposed workflow or UI changes where live human-factors experimentation is expensive or infeasible.

Citation

@article{segal2025multiscale,
  title={A multi-scale cognitive interaction model of instrument operations at the Linac Coherent Light Source},
  author={Segal, Jonathan Isaac and Hu, Wan-Lin and Fuoss, Paul H. and Ritter, Frank E. and Shrager, Jeff},
  journal={Review of Scientific Instruments},
  volume={96},
  pages={013005},
  year={2025},
  publisher={AIP Publishing},
  doi={10.1063/5.0239302}
}