In 12 yrs on the MD11, I can't disagree too much with what you've said, except that I usually hand fly up through 14-15K and often to level off at cruise and I usually click off the AP on descent prior to 1500 HAT. As for the FROM-TO logic, I never flew a Boeing, so I'm sure the TO logic would frustrate me! ;)

If you are leveling off at cruise in RVSM airspace, it is mandatory to have the autopilot on for climb or descent. just an FYI, not a spear.

Not all airspace or cruise levels are RVSM, even in the US! But thanks for saving my ticket! ;)

Not true, my FOM (FAA approved document) say the autopilot must be engaged while in LEVEL FLIGHT. It's approved to climb/descend with it off.

Sorta true. Our FOM(FAA approved document) says "the autopilot must be engaged prior to entering RVSM airspace and for cruise and flight level changes while within RVSM airspace".

Guidance 91(appendix 4), the actual FAA guidance on RVSM, "recommends that the level off be accomplished using the altitude capture feature of the automatic altitude-control system, if installed."

So, I guess your FOM blows off the recommendation and lets you hand fly level changes. Ours is more restrictive and requires us to use the autopilot during level changes.

ICAO only requires that the autopilot be used during level cruise.