Extending the Observer Model for Human Orientation Perception to Include In-Flight Perceptual Thresholds
Abstract
Pilots must make decisions about their vehicles motion, such as deciding if their helicopter is drifting forward or backward. Translation direction-recognition thresholds have been quantified in the lab, but less so in flight, where longer and complex six degree-of-freedom motions occur and include vibrations. To investigate vestibular thresholds, we added a decision-making element to an existing model of spatial orientation. Prior research shows humans tend to process perceptual information similar to a high-pass filter, with only the most recent information contributing to the decision. We simulated the model to predict translation thresholds, which were compared to thresholds measured in the lab or in flight. The model did capture lab thresholds across a range of motion durations, but thresholds from a recent helicopter experiment were much higher than predicted. Using the model, we ruled out potential causes of this discrepancy. We conclude with a discussion of alternative explanations of the much higher thresholds observed in flight and propose future experiments to evaluate these. Understanding vestibular thresholds is important as pilots who misperceive these motions will experience some form of spatial disorientation, which continues to be a leading cause of fatal mishaps.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1124219
Entities
People
- Daniel M. Merfeld
- Henry P. Williams
- Jamie Voros
- Torin K Clark
Organizations
- Naval Medical Research Unit Dayton
- Ohio State University
- University of Colorado