Flight Simulator-Induced Sickness and Visual Displays Evaluation
Abstract
The objective of this investigation were to compare the incidence and severity of simulator sickness associated with the use of two flight simulator visual systems and to evaluate the performance characteristics of the visual displays. The visual systems were the Display for Advanced Research and Training (DART) and the Limited Field-of View Dome (LFOVD). Two groups of pilots served as subjects. One group consisted of active duty U.S. Air Force instructor pilots. The second group was comprised of pilots who were no longer flying military aircraft. The pilots performed a series of single-ship and formation flights, and an F-16 simulated fighter aircraft was used in conjunction with both visual systems. It was observed that both visual systems induced simulator sickness symptoms, and some of the pilots were forced to prematurely terminate the flights due to severe discomfort. For the pilots who were able to complete the flights, there was a significant increase in self reports of discomfort over time, an increase in simulator sickness symptomatology, and a decline in postural equilibrium. However, there were no differences in the incidence of simulator sickness between the two visual systems or pilot groups. The pilots recovered from the adverse effects of the simulation within 30 min following the flights. The means and medians of the pilots' ratings of the visual display characteristics indicated that the only problems encountered with the two visual systems were the resolution of the peripheral field and the vertical excursion limits of the high-resolution inset for the LFOVD.... Ataxia tests, Pilot discomfort ratings, Visual simulation systems, Flight performance, Postural disequilibrium, Flight simulators, Simulator sickness
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA267019
Entities
People
- Harold D. Warner
Organizations
- University of Dayton