Visual Search Performance in Simulated Remotely Piloted Vehicle Utilization as a Function of Auxiliary Task Loading on the Observer
Abstract
Baseline data were obtained on how well observers could extract information from a TV monitor while performing auxiliary tasks under task loading conditions that might be encountered in use of a remotely piloted vehicle (RPV) as the sensor platform. A simulation facility was used. It contained a terrain model, a TV camera transport, hybrid computing equipment, and a television display and control console. Six pilots and six nonpilots participated in the three-phase effort. Phase A required participants to detect and recognize tank-sized targets in open and cluttered backgrounds from a simulated altitude of 2,000 feet and a simulated RPV velocity of 100 knots. Phase B required participants to monitor and correct deviations in the RPV course and altitude and to respond to two visual warning indicators. Increasing the auxiliary load level decreased the probabilities and ranges of target detection and recognition. Target acquisition task demands similarly increased auxiliary task response times. Cluttered background significantly degraded target acquisition task performance, particularly when the auxiliary task was performed concurrently.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA072402
Entities
People
- Benjamin Schohan
- Richard B. Huntoon
- Uldi Shvern