Boston Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) Lighting Study.
Abstract
This report describes the work accomplished in reducing reflections on the faceplates of the Plan View Displays (PVDs) while increasing the level of ambient lighting, at Test Area D of the Boston ARTCC control room. This was intended, respectively, to improve the observation of PVD flight data by the air traffic controllers, and to facilitate reading and walking in the immediate aisle area. Raytheon lighting experts identified glare and reflection sources and lighting deficiencies, measured their various intensities with photometric test equipment, and provided practical suggestions to rectify the lighting problems. Their technical investigation, supplemented by extensive treatises on the optical definition and a literature review of the subject lighting reflection dilemma, was consolidated in a separate Raytheon Report and is attached to this FAA report. NAFEC engineered the lighting and equipment modifications advised by Raytheon. NAFEC human factors personnel surveyed the controller's opinions of the changes in the control room. Their work and findings are briefly described in this report. Details can be obtained in NAFEC Report No. FAA-RD-77-50. The results of this project were the significant reduction of the PVD reflections and glare, and an increase in the ambient illumination, at the test location in Area D. It was concluded that: (1) the glare and reflections could be significantly reduced, but not eliminated, by minor equipment modifications; (2) the ambient light level could be increased to provide adequate visibility in the work aisle, but an exceptionally bright level could not be tolerated. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA041324
Entities
People
- Alan J. Kopala
- Charles M. Hall
- Richard M. Carr
Organizations
- RTX